Trojans Fall to Shoreline in Season Finale, Look Ahead to Bright Future

Everett, WA - Men's Hoops saw its 2025-26 season come to a close Wednesday night with an 80-61 loss to Shoreline Community College at home. Despite the heartbreaking finish, the Trojans battled to the final horn and closed the year fifth in the North Region standings—just one spot shy of qualifying for the NWAC playoffs.

Shoreline used a strong second half to pull away, turning a 37-28 halftime edge into the 19-point final margin. The Dolphins shot an efficient 53.6% from the field and knocked down 10 three-pointers, including a 6-for-7 performance from beyond the arc by Javon McFerrin, who finished with 18 points off the bench.

Freshman guard Bubba Palacol delivered a standout performance in the season finale, pouring in 27 points on 10-of-21 shooting, including 5-of-9 from three-point range. He added five assists and three steals in 37 minutes, continuing his emergence as one of the program's foundational pieces moving forward.

Inside, Darious Turner anchored the glass with a team-high 10 rebounds to go along with seven points, while Anthony Najera contributed seven boards and five assists. As a team, Everett won the rebounding battle 44-31 and pulled down 16 offensive rebounds, showcasing the grit and effort that defined much of the season.

Sophomore Night carried special meaning as Ro'Darius Thomas, the lone sophomore on this year's roster, was recognized for his leadership and commitment to the program.  While he didnt get into the scoring column in his final game as a Trojan, he did haul in four rebounds and dished out an assist in 19 minutes of action. 

Though the loss stings and the playoffs were just one spot away, the outlook for Everett basketball remains bright. With a roster built primarily around freshmen who gained invaluable experience this season, the growth trajectory is undeniable.

Close games, rivalry battles, and meaningful February basketball have laid the groundwork. The Trojans competed night in and night out in a tightly contested North Region and will return next season battle-tested, deeper, and hungry.

Wednesday marked the end of the 2025-26 campaign—but it also marked the beginning of what promises to be an exciting new chapter for Trojan basketball.