After graduating one of the top scorers in program history, the Columbia River boys basketball team needed someone to take over that role.
So far, Evan Dirksen has been the guy.
Dirksen scored 21 points Tuesday as Columbia River pulled away from King’s Way Christian to win 63-44.
The senior, who is a three-year starter, made 8 of 12 shots as River shot 58 percent from the field. Dirksen has scored at least 20 points in three of four games this season.
“I really admire the way Evan has brought his game to another level,” River coach David Long said. “He’s taken over a leadership role. His role is different know. He’s not just one of the guys, he’s got to be the guy.”
Now 4-0, River broke open a tie game in the third quarter. The Chieftains outscored the Knights 22-8 to take a 49-35 lead.
Caden Dezort scored 9 of his 13 points in the third, and had a 4-point play in the fourth. Meanwhile, River’s defense clamped down.
“For us, the defense has been leading the way,” Dirksen said. “We’ve been getting stops, which has led to us getting open run-outs.”
Last season, Columbia River placed sixth in the 2A state tournament behind Jacob Hjort, who ended his career as the No. 2 scorer in school history.
The Chieftains hope to return to Yakima. If they do, a balanced scoring attack will be key. Tuesday, the Chieftains had four scorers in double figures as Nate Snook had 15 points and Jack Armstrong added 11.
“We just need to move the ball around the find open shooters,” Dirksen said. “If we do that, we’ll be fine”
Khal Cason scored 12 points to lead King’s Way, which fell to 1-4. The Knights are also seeking return to Yakima after reaching the Class 1A state tournament last season.
“That game was tied not because we played poorly, but because they played well,” Long said. “They are better than their record indicates.”
COLUMBIA RIVER 63, KING’S WAY 44
COLUMBIA RIVER (4-0) — Nate Snook 15, Alex Miller 3, Quincy Cartwright 0, Matt Asplund 0, Evan Dirksen 21, Caden Dezort 13, Cole Delich 0, Jack Armstrong 11. Totals 25 (8) 5-10 63.
KING’S WAY CHRISTIAN (1-4) — Khal Cason 12, Kobi Cason 11, Kefentse Cason 6, Bryce Dodge 2, Seth Woody 0, Justin Frahm 0, Brady Metz 9, Bailey Meek 0, Bryson Metz 4. Totals 18 (6) 2-4 44.
C. River 19 8 22 14–63
King’s Way 18 9 8 9–44
