Keelhaulers enjoy hot start before Southern Oregon pulls away

VALLEJO, Calif. – Basketball fans enjoyed a thrilling first half during Sunday's Keelhauler Classic finale at PEAC Main Gym, as Cal Maritime held an eight-point lead until Southern Oregon climbed its way back into the game and held a 32-29 advantage at the break. 

Kai Kraus fueled the Keelhaulers' hot start by scoring seven of her game-high 23 points in the first quarter and took full advantage of every trip to the free throw line throughout the entire game by hitting all 12 of her attempts.

The sophomore guard also sank five shots from the floor, collected four rebounds and a game-high five assists.

In addition to Kraus, Alicia Porter turned in a solid performance underneath the glass against the Raiders by earning a game-high nine of the Keelhaulers' 24 boards, and nearly posted a double-double since she ended her night with 13 points.

With twice as many players available, Southern Oregon's depth became a key factor once the second half started since it turned a three-point lead into a double-digit margin by outscoring Cal Maritime, 26-11 in the third quarter, to record an 88-52 victory.

Sunday's result pushes the Keelhaulers' record to 0-8. Southern Oregon, a team receiving votes in the NAIA's latest national poll, will continue its season at 10-1.