Portland Basketball teams support “Oxford Strong” on Winterfest Night

The gymnasium at Portland School was hopping with activity on Friday night as the Portland varsity girls and boys teams hosted Ionia for a CAAC White match-up. PHS was also celebrating their annual Winterfest, and supporting the Oxford High School community as part of the statewide “Oxford Strong” night.

Both Portland teams sold “Oxford Strong” t-shirts leading up to the game, with a portion of the sale of each shirt benefiting the Oxford Community. The Portland teams and coaches wore Oxford Strong t-shirts for the game, and many spectators did the same.

Prior to the start of the girls game, the Lady Raiders recognized Ionia senior Brynn Reams. Reams has been a standout for Ionia for years, and is a consummate competitor on the court. Reams had a season ending injury earlier this year. The Portland coaching staff and senior players presented Reams with a few gifts and recognized her prior to the game.

The Portland girls defeated Ionia 60-33. Portland was led by senior Ashley Bower with 21 points. Senior Alivia Densmore added 14 points, while seniors Ava Guilford and Breckyn Werner each had eight points.

At halftime of the boys game, the PHS Winterfest Court was introduced. Seniors Caitlyn Weller and Ethan Patrick were names king and queen.

The final game of the evening was between the Portland boys and Ionia. Despite a hard-fought battle, Ionia won the game 54-46.

Photos by AJ Guilford.