St. John-Endicott advances to SEB tourney

POMEROY, Wash. – Bryce Johnson scored 29 points, including nine in a pivotal fourth quarter, as St. John-Endicott advanced to the District 9 B basketball tournament with an 86-79 victory over Pomeroy on Wednesday.

SJE overcame a four-point deficit after three quarters with a 29-point outburst in the fourth. Ray Fitzgerald’s steal and layup with 1 minute left gave the Eagles the lead for good.

Brent Liefer added 18 points for the Eagles (14-9). Collin McCabe led the Pirates (9-13) with 21 points.

SJE will play Blue Mountain Conference champion DeSales in the first round Friday at Walla Walla Community College. Tipoff is at 8 p.m.