PULLMAN, WA- The first annual clash of the combines boys basketball game belonged to the Pullman Greyhounds. A late second half surge pushed them to victory, downing the Moscow Bears 62-53.

Pullman guard Champ Powaukee played a key factor in the win, scoring 23 points, seven rebounds, five assists and four steals.

"I was really locked in. I was ready since yesterday. I've been waiting for this game since last week, I've been telling my guys to get ready to have energy since last game, because we didn't bring out the energy and it was at home," Powaukee said.

Powaukee certainly provided that spark, doing a little bit of everything on the court.

Whether it was a shooting threes, drawing contact to get to the free throw line, or driving to the basket, it was enough to propel them to a win in front of a packed Pullman student section.

"It was about getting used to the game, like giving our teammates and everyone the ball, having the ball in their hands, getting them ready for the late quarters if they have the ball late in the game."

There was one moment in particular, where the guard soared to the basket in transition for a monster dunk. He turned the Moscow crowd fired up, using it as extra motivation.

"My sophomore year I didn't play well against this team and it was in this gym, so it's just really in my heart and I like putting out that emotion.

Not only does he wear his heart on his sleeve, but he's also stepped up as a senior, leading a younger core of players.

"It was a big leadership role. Last year, we had a whole bunch of seniors with so many captains that had to bring everything, so I learned that from them."

The greyhounds coaching staff have built a strong foundation, and the team's communication will only continue to improve as the season goes on.

"They have us condition very well. It's a really good team system, and we work on that every single day."

"They give me a whole bunch of tips when I come to the bench. They come and give me tips on what I should have done, instead of what I did and it helps me more and more every game."