The holiday break presented a tough test for Highline College basketball, as both the men's and women's teams faced strong competition at the NWAC Crossover Tournaments. While the results did not fall in the Thunderbirds' favor, the weekend highlighted the fight, potential, and growth within both programs.
Men's Basketball
At the NWAC Men's Crossover Tournament, the Thunderbirds competed hard from start to finish, holding leads in all three games. Highline ultimately fell to Spokane Community College (95–89), Mt. Hood Community College (74–73), and Shoreline Community College (90–69), bringing the team's record to 4–5 on the season.
Despite the close outcomes, the tournament showcased the team's offensive capability and competitiveness. Freshman guard Dane Lewis continued to establish himself as one of the conference's rising talents, averaging an impressive 17.6 points per game during the crossover. Lewis now leads the Thunderbirds with 17 points per game on the season, providing a strong foundation as the team prepares for a busy stretch ahead.
Highline now turns its attention to a packed end-of-year schedule, with six games over the next two weeks. The Thunderbirds will host Palm Beach State College on December 17, travel to Peninsula College on December 18, and return home to take on Olympic College on December 19.
Women's Basketball
The women's team also faced a demanding slate at the NWAC Women's Crossover Tournament, competing against several experienced programs. Highline dropped games to Clackamas Community College (105–36), Columbia Basin College (70–45), and Edmonds College (55–46), moving to 1–6 on the season.
This season's roster is made up entirely of first-year players, and with the active lineup reduced to nine, the Thunderbirds continue to gain valuable experience with each game. Under head coach Emil Swain, the team has shown consistent effort and growth, beginning to develop an offensive identity led by Keira Lonn (9.6 points per game), Nevaeh Richardson (9.5 ppg), and Jeralynn Sevaaetasi (9.0 ppg).
The women will look to build on that momentum when they return home to host Skagit Valley College on December 17.
Looking Ahead
Although the weekend brought challenges, both Highline basketball programs remain focused on progress and preparation. With young rosters, emerging leaders, and key games ahead, the Thunderbirds are poised to turn experience into confidence as they continue their 2025 campaigns.
