Russell leads Raider’s to Victory over Lakewood

Owen Russell burned the nets for 26 points on Wednesday night in a varsity home game against the Lakewood Vikings, including 9 of 11 free throws in the first half. “When Owen’s shooting well the other kids play with more confidence”, Coach Dave Pettit said after the game.

The Raiders led throughout the game. The score at the end of the first quarter was 16-9 in favor of Portland. The end of the first half saw the score at 30-19 Portland. The beginning of the second-half was hot for the Raiders as they poured in 27 third quarter points, led by Jordan Petersen and Aryan Virk who combined for 15 of those 27.

The Raiders led 57-31 at the beginning of fourth quarter. It was the largest lead they’ve had in any game so far this season. The final score, 67-42, gave the Raiders their fourth win of the season and their second win in a row. Coach Pettit said after the game, “After not playing for twelve days I thought we competed pretty well...We shot the ball real well tonight....and defended well also. Owen Russell got going and that opened it up for everyone. We shared the ball and didn’t force many contested shots tonight.”

Russell led all scorers in the game with his 26. Aryan Virk chipped in 11 and Jordan Peterson scored 10, followed by Gavin McGregor and Zach Pier who added 7 and 5 points respectively for the Raiders. Lakewood was led by B. Makley with 16.

The Raiders are scheduled to play three games in the next four days, beginning with a home game against Eaton Rapids on Friday, another home game Saturday afternoon at 1:00 PM against Olivet and then a trip to Lansing Catholic on Monday night for a make-up game. They will close out their regular season next Friday, Feb. 22nd at Charlotte, before returning home to host MHSAA District Play. The Raider’s will open tournament play at home on Monday, February 25 against Lansing Sexton. Go Raiders.