Boys basketball: Columbia River 49, Kelso 42

Columbia River 49, Kelso 42 — The Columbia River Chieftains led with their defense Monday night in Kelso.

The Chieftains held the Hilanders to without a field goal in the first quarter and it took Kelso long into the second period before recording a basket from the floor.

It all worked out for the Chieftains — who also struggled on offense — to the tune of a 49-42 victory in a Class 3A Greater St. Helens League boys basketball game.

Isaiah Smith had 22 points and 11 rebounds, leading River to a 5-0 league record.

The Chieftains led 25-14 at the half. Kelso outscored River in the second half, but the Chieftains were never in any danger of losing the lead.

“It’s a tough place to get a win. We’re just happy we got that one,” River coach David Long said. “When we don’t shoot well and still win, that’s OK. Beats a loss.”

Devin Bolds added eight points, four assists, and six steals for Columbia River. Rian Bassett scored seven points.

Aaron Adams led Kelso with 18 points.

COLUMBIA RIVER 49, KELSO 42

COLUMBIA RIVER — Devin Bolds 8, Eli Evenson 0, Rian Bassett 7, Jon Hanberg 6, Chad Love 2, Curtis Shuck 0, Mack Stromme 4, Isaiah Smith 22. Totals 16 (4) 13-20 49.

KELSO — Aaron Adams 18, Johnson 11, Gillihan 3, Williams 2, Golden 4, Bowlby 0, Covel 1, Sims 3. Totals 11 (2) 18-25 42.

Columbia River 11 14 11 13—49

Kelso 5 9 12 16—42

JV — River 58-41. C — River 59-57, 2 OT