FOREST GROVE, Ore. — Hamline (10-2, 2-1 MIAC) secured an 86-72 victory over Pacific University (Oregon) (5-6, 1-0 NWC) at the Stoller Center on Tuesday night. The Pipers capitalized on a strong performance at the free-throw line, converting 27 of 38 attempts.
Hamline started strong, pulling ahead of Pacific 48-32 by the end of the first half. Vaidya led the scoring charge for the Pipers with multiple three-pointers, including one at the 7:58 mark that extended their lead to 30-14. Ebel contributed both offensively and defensively, scoring on fast breaks and securing crucial rebounds. Pacific struggled to keep pace, with Vacco and Gray making key plays but unable to close the gap significantly. The half concluded with Hamline maintaining a firm lead, capitalizing on turnovers and efficient shooting.
The Pipers extended their lead in the second half, starting strong with back-to-back layups by Ebel, who also converted two free throws at 18:57, pushing the score to 52-34. Pacific struggled to keep pace, with Gray's early layup at 19:43 being one of their few highlights. Ebel continued his impact, adding a dunk at 8:29 with an assist from DeDominces, contributing to Hamline's advantage. Despite a late three-pointer by Hrboka, Hamline maintained control, sealing the half with an 86-72 victory.
Vaidya led the team with 20 points, including six 3-pointers, and recorded three steals. Ebel scored 22 points, going 9 of 11 from the free-throw line, and collected two steals. DeDominces posted a dominant presence on the boards with 14 rebounds and added nine points. Wall-Atim contributed by recording nine rebounds and four assists.
The Pipers will be back in MIAC play on January 7, when they take on St. Scholastica in Duluth for a 7 PM conference tipoff!