Cougars wrap up their pre-season

The Lassen College basketball men's basketball team wrapped up their preseason with three games at the 84th annual Modesto College Tournament. The Cougars opened up with #30 Fresno City College on Thursday, December 8, and struggled from the opening tip. It appeared the long drive might have gotten to the Cougars as they struggled offensively, missing shots they usually make while also not having their usual defensive intensity. Lassen had a much better-showing n the second half, but by then, it was too little too late as they dropped the game 52-79,

Nathan Smothers led the Cougars in scoring with 12 points, followed by Shelton Taylor, who had 10 points.

Lassen took on #28 West Hills Coalinga on the tournament's second day. This would be the second time in just a couple of weeks that these two teams have faced off, West Hills winning the previous meeting, 50-68.

The Cougars had a much better game the second time around, controlling the tempo and the glass all game long. Lassen led by as many as 18 and ended up victorious 71-61. Joey Summers led the Cougars in scoring with 12 points coming from four three-pointers, followed by Trey Wilmot, who added 11 points to go with his four assists.

On the tournament's final day, Lassen took on #18 Ohlone College in the Consolation Championship game. This was a hard-nosed battle all the way until the end of the game. Ohlone was able to jump out ahead early, but the Cougars battled back and went into halftime only down by one point, 33-34. The Cougars continued to trade points with Ohlone, but they weren't able to come up with enough tops down the stretch to get the win. Lassen ended up falling short, 64-72. Nathan SMothers led the Cougars in scoring with 12 points.

"Other than the Fresno game, we competed well against some really good teams. We still have a lot of work to do, but hopefully we can carry some of the positive momentum we created into the break and into the start of conference," said Head Coach Will Freedman.

Next up for the Cougars is the beginning of GVC play against College of the Siskiyous on January 7 at Lassen Community College.