The typically hot-shooting attack of Walla Walla began the game cold, but Freshman forward Jake Albright was on fire making 7 of his first 8 shots.
Centralia was patient on offense and focused on challenging the smaller Warriors in the post. For the half, Centralia was able to get 26 of their 35 points in the paint.
Both Brandon Porter and Landon Radliff struggled to get going from the outside, only shooting 3 of 14 from deep. Marqus Gilson was able to get easy looks for Centralia on the interior where the Blazers shot 60%.
In the second half, Centralia was able to grind down Walla Walla to get a one point lead at the 9 minute mark led by Gilson, but the Damen Thacker and Radliff combo began to take over and stretch the lead back to 9.
Just when it seemed out of reach, the Blazers were able to create a couple of turnovers to get a final look to tie it with 3 seconds left, but a Tyler Meadows 3 fell short. Thacker would hit both ensuing free throws to seal it for the Warriors.
Radliff finished the game with 27 points 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Thacker posted 21 points and 6 rebounds of his own. Gilson scored a tournament high of 33 points to go with 13 rebounds, but it was not enough as the Trailblazers fell short of the upset 84-80.
Centralia finishes the season with an 11-20 record. Walla Walla moves on to face Linn-Benton in the Elite 8.
