Expectations for the back-to-back state champions are even higher than last year as the team shoots for a third straight title. Their campaign started off last Friday against the Axemen (0-1) from South Eugene and after some first half struggles, the Lions (1-0) ran away with it 77-56.

Early in the game, West Linn missed easy shots, struggled on transition defense and allowed South Eugene to stay competitive. At the end of the first quarter, the Lions were holding onto a one point lead, 13-12. The Axemen continued their excellent play as they were-upset minded, down only one at halftime, 28-27.

Clinging to a 46-40 lead heading into the fourth quarter, West Linn blew the doors open and exploded for a dominant 31 point final quarter. Led by guard Payton Pritchard, junior, the Lions were able to completely extinguish any thoughts of an upset by the Axemen. The Oklahoma-commit guard led both teams in scoring with 33 points and guided West Linn to victory.

The Lions will travel to Las Vegas, Nev. and participate in the Tark Classic-the only team from Oregon represented in their division. Some of the best teams from around the country will take part in this tournament including teams from California, Oklahoma, Nevada, Utah, Pennsylvania and Texas.

The Girls Varsity Basketball Team (1-2) was able to secure its first victory in a win against the Lake Oswego Lakers (2-1), 50-42 to open conference play in the 2014-15 season.

Trading baskets throughout the first quarter, the Lions were tied 13-13 and eventually fell down two points at halftime, 24-22.

Lake Oswego’s 2-3 zone was not able to stop West Linn’s offense and in the third quarter, the Lions had a 43-35 lead, their largest of the game. The Lakers pulled to within five late in the game but West Linn sealed the win with a couple clutch free throws.

The Lions’ next game will be against Lakeridge (2-3) at West Linn at 6:45 p.m. on Tuesday.