The 2019 NWAC Crossover tournament has produced some great basketball, here in Aberdeen. After an eventful first day, Saturday immediately proved to be no different. The Treasure Valley Chukars staged a 2nd half comeback on the Pirates of Peninsula College. The Chukars were down by double digits before staging a comeback. Through their tough defense and timely three point shooting the TVCC held a 2 point lead with seconds to play. Peninsula College had the last possession and that is all they would need. The Pirates would hit a three point shot to win the game. The buzzer beater play lifted Peninsula College to a 76 - 75 victory over Treasure Valley.

In the second game, of the late afternoon starts, Grays Harbor College found a way to win versus a very tough and well coached Linn-Benton College team. The Chokers continue to struggle from the free throw line, but found a way to get the job done 63 -61. The Chokers were led by a first group that normally does not start the game together. Head coach Matthew Vargas went deep into his bench sending a message to his team. Ben Dublanko, Genuwine Powell and Antonie Hines all started the game for the GHC men. The tone for the defensive end was set early. The GHC men held the Roadrunners to 46% from the field and 22% from behind the arc (3pt). The Chokers were also +5 in the game rebounding margin.

"Everyone is accountable in our system. To the average fan they see a game. We see a program - a culture we are developing. Who is working hard in practice, the classroom and being coachable? Who can get it done right now and who needs a little more experience? These are very young men and tonight we shook it up to rid our selves of complacency. Championships aren't won in December and freshmen aren't  always bought in during the first two months, of a season. This whole thing is a process. I love where we are at. I love this group.", commented Coach Vargas.

The Chokers currently have nine wins on young the season, but don't tell Coach Vargas those type of numbers. "Wins? You are wrong about that number. We have 12. 12 players on our roster. 12 players eligible. 9 of those young men have either all A's, all B's or a mixture of both this Fall semester. Wins? That is winning. Everything else will come with it if we stay the journey together".

The Chokers are in action at 2 pm today versus Peninsula College. Peninsula College (9-2) defeated the Chokers by 15 points at the Triton Classic, in Edmonds several weeks ago. Come out and catch the final game of the 2019 NWAC Crossover.