DAMASCUS, ORE. – A pair of free throws by Jayce Ellis in the closing seconds proved to be the difference as the No. 9 North Douglas boys defeated No. 8 Damascus Christian 58-57 on Friday to advance to the 1A quarterfinals next week in Baker City.

Ellis finished with a game-high 26 points, but his biggest points came with 12 seconds remaining. His free throws gave the Warriors a one-point edge. The Eagles had a chance to win the game on a three-point attempt that was off the mark.

The Warriors now prepare to head off to Baker City where the 1A tournament will conclude next week. The final eight teams will play to determine the state championship. North Douglas will face defending state champion Sherman in the quarterfinals on Wednesday at 1:30 p.m.

Joining the Warriors in Baker City is Days Creek. The No. 2 Wolves downed Horizon Christian 49-41 on Friday night to stay alive in the post season.

The Wolves jumped ahead early, but were locked in a one-point game at halftime. Days Creek started to pull away in the third quarter and managed to stay ahead in the fourth. Jed Hays scored 14 points to lead the way for Days Creek.

Up next, the Wolves will take on No. 7 Powder Valley in the quarterfinals on Wednesday at 8:15 a.m.

Both North Douglas and Days Creek are now just two wins away from playing for a state championship. Neither team even made the playoffs last year.

Other Boy’s Playoff Scores From Friday:

4A Play-In Round:
North Marion 83, Douglas 42
Sutherlin 52, Klamath Union 43 (RECAP)

2A 1st Round:
Stanfield 90, Oakland 56