The Salem Academy Crusaders had to endure a four-game losing streak, but that streak is no more. They skirted past Willamina 42-39. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest win Salem Academy has posted since December 29, 2023.
Willamina's loss came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Hadley Hughes, who scored 13 points along with five rebounds. Grace Terbush was another key contributor, scoring six points along with five rebounds.
Salem Academy's victory bumped their record up to 6-14. As for Willamina, their defeat ended a three-game streak of away wins and brought them to 15-7.
Salem Academy won't have much time to rest: their next game is against Gervais at 1:00 p.m. on February 3rd. Salem Academy has insisted on making their lastthree contests complete nail-biters, turning in a record of 1-2 during that stretch of close contests. As for Willamina, they will be playing at home against Western Christian at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Western Christian presents a significant challenge as they come into the match much higher ranked than Willamina in Oregon (Western Christian is ranked 14th, while Willamina is ranked 72nd).