Tualatin's 4th quarter comeback lifts them to state title over Clackamas
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- In an action-packed 6A OSAA women’s basketball state championship title showdown, Tualatin rallied in the final minutes to defeat Clackamas 63-58, denying the Cavaliers a title in Jazzy Davidson’s final high school game.
The first two quarters were a back-and-forth fight, with Clackamas leading 30-25 at halftime. Both sides alternated momentum in the first half, with neither allowing the other to establish complete control. USC-commit Davidson was dominant early on, helping Clackamas maintain its lead as she sought to round out her high school career with a championship.
The Cavaliers started strong in the second half, immediately increasing their advantage by over 10 points within the first two minutes of the third quarter. However, Tualatin's freshman star Love Lei Best stepped up, keeping the Timberwolves in the fight. As Clackamas tried to pull away, things took a turn when Davidson suffered an ankle injury and exited the game.
The momentum shifted drastically in Tualatin's favor and they were able to mount a comeback and tie up the game in the 4th quarter. A three-pointer in the final minutes put them in the lead, along with a clutch jumper and a couple free throws. Clackamas was not able to respond at the end and ended up falling short 63-58.
Lei Best led the charge with an outstanding performance and received MVP honors.
Although it was a disappointing finish for Clackamas, they had an impressive season, particularly for their seniors, many of whom committed to D1 programs this year. But Tualatin had an historic night, winning the state championship thanks to an incredible late-game run.