Tritons win first 'T' Trophy battle at Everett, 73-68

EVERETT, Wash. — Edmonds (13-8, 4-2) won the first battle of the Snohomish County rivalry 73-68 over Everett (9-12, 2-4) at the Walt Price Fitness Center on Saturday. Edmonds outscored Everett 40-32 in the second half, with a notable contribution of 32 points in the paint.

Edmonds began the game with a balanced offensive effort, marked by a key 3-pointer from Hunter White at 17:58, assisted by Kyrylo Kapinos, to take an early lead. A significant moment came when Adonai Daniel's 3-pointer at 12:31, assisted by Sebastian Cooper, extended Edmonds' lead to 15-10. Despite Everett's response, the Tritons remained competitive, highlighted by Brayden McVey's 3-pointer at 0:52 to tie the game at 33-33. However, a late 3-pointer from Everett's Noah Parker gave the home team a narrow 36-33 lead at the end of the first half.

Edmonds surged ahead in the second half with a pivotal run beginning at 11:27, where Daniel's 3-pointer tied the game at 48-48. This was followed by another 3-pointer from Karan Makhar, assisted by Avidan West, to take the lead. West continued to contribute significantly, scoring a dunk that pushed their lead to five points at 10:34.

Despite Everett's efforts to close the gap, the Tritons maintained control with crucial free throws from Sam Lockhart in the final minute, securing a tight finish. The half ended with Edmonds leading 73-68, contributing to a 40-32 advantage for the half.

West scored 21 points and converted 7 of 11 free throws. Kapinos collected 10 rebounds and posted two blocks. Lockhart added 12 points, including two 3-pointers, and recorded three assists. White contributed with 12 rebounds and scored five points.

The Tritons hit the road to Bremerton and will face Olympic College (3-19, 1-5) on Wednesday at 5 p.m.