EUGENE, Ore. – Northwest University men's basketball showed resilience and fight in the second half Saturday afternoon, but an early deficit proved too much to overcome in a 76–64 Cascade Collegiate Conference loss to Bushnell.
The Eagles (3-11, 0-6 CCC) struggled to find an offensive rhythm in the opening half, as Bushnell built a commanding lead behind strong shooting and rebounding. Northwest went into the break trailing 46–23 after being limited from the perimeter and facing consistent defensive pressure.
Coming out of halftime, the Eagles responded with renewed energy and intensity. Northwest used improved ball movement and defensive pressure to spark a 28–11 run over a ten-minute stretch, cutting what had been a 26-point deficit down to just seven. A three-pointer from Christian Watkins with 8:18 remaining capped the surge and brought the Eagles within striking distance at 60–53.
Bushnell (7-6, 4-2 CCC) answered late, knocking down timely shots to push the margin back into double figures and secure the home victory. Despite the loss, Northwest's second-half effort showcased the team's persistence and depth.
Watkins led the Eagles with 12 points off the bench, while Devin Wade-Henderson added 11 points and six rebounds, also in a reserve role. Northwest's bench provided a spark throughout the contest, outscoring Bushnell's reserves 33–14.
Northwest will look to carry the momentum from its second-half performance into its next conference matchup as it continues CCC play.