Trojans top Phins

The Trojans set out on Wednesday night to do something that hasn't been done since the 2012-2013 season, and that is start off conference play at 3-0.  That goal was accomplished after an 88-76 win over Shoreline CC.  

The defending North Region Champs found themselves on the ropes a bit after the opening four minutes of play, finding themselves trailing 10-2, but a 13 point run by the Trojans over the next four minutes put them right back in the driver seat up 15-10.  Struggling from behind the arc in the first half shooting just 3-14, Everett would make up for it by getting to the free throw line and converting 10-11 from the stripe.  Redshirt freshman Phalon Maddox lead the Trojans in the first half with 13 points, and big man Magnus Jespersen cleaned up the boards with 9 rebounds giving EvCC a 45-39 halftime lead. 

In the second half, Shoreline would keep the game close, getting as close as two at 55-53 with 14 minutes to go and then to three at 66-63 with eight minutes to play.  Despite the persistence of SCC, the Trojans played their brand of basketball, getting to the line and solid defense.  It also didn't hurt to have a 21 point second half performance by the NWAC's leading scorer either, as Markeith Brown Jr. would find his rhythem and finsih the game with 30 points and 5 assists.  Three other Trojans finished the game in double figures, Phalon Maddox 15 points and 4 assists, Tori Odom 13 points and 5 rebounds, and Magnus Jespersen added 11 points with 16 rebounds for his 5th double double of the year. 

The win sets up what promises to be an epic clash of North Region rivals on Saturday night.  Everett at 3-0 in conference play will face Edmonds at 3-0.  Tip off is scheduled for 6pm at the Walt Price Center on Larry Walker Court following the the first annual Everett Fire Department vs South Snohomish County Fire Department Charity Basketball game benefiting the WSCFF Burn Foundation.