The Rainier boys basketball team summited the hill in Kalama and took down the Chinooks on Saturday, winning 55-45 in a game that never got to be that comfortable.
The Mountaineers slowly built out a lead that was four points at halftime and 11 by the end of the third quarter, but never pulled away late, going just 11 for 30 from the free-throw line when it was all said and done.
“That won't cut it as we come down the stretch,” Rainier coach Ben Sheaffer said. “We did show some resiliency at times tonight, but have work to do.”
Jimmy Meldrum led the Mountaineers with 21 points, and Josh Meldrum pitched in 13, with Gavin Owen scoring eight.
Rainier will get back to work next Wednesday at home against Onalaska.
