Basketball Recap: Portland Comes Up Short

Portland was not able to break out of their rough patch on Monday as the team picked up their third straight loss. They were a single point away from ending the streak, but they lost a 36-35 heartbreaker at the hands of the Westbrook Knights. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against the Knights this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 44-35 back in December of 2024.

When it comes to explaining why Portland lost, don't look at Gracie DeRing. Despite the final result, she posted six points and eight rebounds. Another player making a difference was Kelsey Desmarais, who earned seven points and 12 boards.

Highlanders

Offensive Rebounds

02/10/25 @ Westbrook	18
12/20/24 @ Hale Ray	14
12/17/24 @ Old Lyme	11
01/31/25 vs Hale Ray	10
01/17/25 vs Valley Regional	9

Even though they lost, Portland smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 18 offensive rebounds. That's the most offensive boards they've managed all season.

Portland's defeat dropped their record down to 2-14. As for Westbrook, their victory bumped their record up to 3-8.

Both teams will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Portland won't have much time to rest: their next game is against Old Saybrook at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Portland is facing Old Saybrook at the right time seeing as Old Saybrook is stuck on a three-game losing streak. As for Westbrook, they also won't have to wait long for more action: they'll take on Coginchaug Regional at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Coginchaug Regional will roll in looking for their 15th straight win, something Westbrook surely won't give up without a fight.