Whitworth survives after squandering most of 17-point lead against Lewis & Clark

Feb. 13, 2026 Updated Fri., Feb. 13, 2026 at 9:56 p.m.

From staff reports

Caden Bateman blocked a shot at the buzzer and Whitworth survived after nearly blowing a big lead, holding on for a 72-69 Northwest Conference win over Lewis & Clark on Friday night at the Whitworth Fieldhouse.

The Pirates (18-4, 12-1 NWC) led by as many as 17 points midway through the second half, but a five-minute scoring drought allowed the Pioneers (11-11, 7-6) to gradually climb back in it.

Lewis & Clark had a chance to tie on its last possession, but Joe Brown’s 3-point try was rejected.

Whitworth went into the half leading 42-28, but was outscored 41-30 in the second. The Pirates shot 47.2% in the first half and 38.7% in the second – Lewis & Clark’s shooting numbers were nearly identical, but in opposite halves.

Guard Ben Nyquist led Whitworth with 15 points, five rebounds, four steals and three assists. Forward Stephen Behil had 13 points and nine boards, and Bateman tallied 11 points and six rebounds.

Whitworth can win the NWC Saturday with a win over George Fox.

Local journalism is essential.

Give directly to The Spokesman-Review's Northwest Passages community forums series -- which helps to offset the costs of several reporter and editor positions at the newspaper -- by using the easy options below. Gifts processed in this system are tax deductible.

Meet Our Journalists

Jesse Tinsley

Meet Jesse Tinsley. As a certified drone pilot, this veteran Spokesman-Review photographer often can be seen capturing beautiful aerial photographs of our region. Sometimes though, the job requires getting down with the dogs.
Jim Meehan

Jim Meehan is no stranger to Zag Nation. As the lead writer covering the Gonzaga men’s basketball team, he tells the stories behind the game and gets fans a bit closer to their favorite players.
Molly Quinn

There is no artist in Spokane like Molly Quinn. Her whimsical style is instantly recognizable to readers of The Spokesman-Review. She has painted gorgeous illustrations that instantly elevate the journalism accompanying it. She brings to life the stories that defy photography. She makes our pages better.
Rob Curley

Spokesman-Review editor Rob Curley loves to talk with people and learn about their lives, whether it's a best-selling author or a stranger he meets downtown on his walk to lunch. It's that inquisitive nature combined with a playful sense of storytelling that helps make our newspaper different than most.

Whitworth survives after squandering most of 17-point lead against Lewis & Clark

Jesse Tinsley

Jim Meehan

Molly Quinn

Rob Curley

Whitworth ready to 'enjoy the moment' in NCAA Tournament opener against Trinity

Whitworth basketball to face Trinity on Friday in NCAA Division III Tournament opener

Whitworth turns back Willamette 97-87 to win NWC Tournament, qualify for D-III Tournament