VANCOUVER, WA – The Umpqua Lady Riverhawks might have played just one game last week, but it was a big enough win to earn sophomore Sawyer Kluge her first NWAC Player of the Week award this season.

Kluge scored 35 points to lead Umpqua to a 98-83 win over previously undefeated Lane. The victory was critical in keeping the Riverhawks in the chase for one of the four playoff berths out of the South Region. Kluge also recorded 13 rebounds, 3 assists, a steal and a block in the win. She now ranks in the top 20 in five statistical categories.

The Umpqua Riverhawks are currently tied for second in the South Region with Clackamas. There are two games left in the regular season and one more win for UCC will secure a third consecutive post season bid. The path won’t be easy for the Riverhawks, who have to face fifth place Chemeketa on Wednesday and fourth place Clark on Saturday. Back-to-back losses for the UCC women would mean they could finish tied for fourth with Chemeketa and a one-game playoff would be required to determine which team claims the final playoff spot.
– Joey Keeran | @joeykeeran | joey@bciradio.com