Men's Basketball: Porterville splits games at Victor Valley Tournament

Freshman Malik McCowan came off the bench to score a team-high 17 points as the Porterville College Pirates picked up their first win of the season, a 98-94 victory over Bethesda University's JV squad on Friday at the Victor Valley College Tournament. The Pirates were able to bounce back after a 91-79 loss to Riverside City College on Thursday.

In the win over Bethesda, Porterville shot 49 percent from the field, making 33 of 67 shots. The Pirates had five players score in double figures. McCowan's 17 points led as he added five rebounds, three steals, and three assists. Freshman Tevin Howell also had a good game with 15 points, six rebounds, four steals, and two assists.

Freshman Arthur Price was also effective off the bench as he chipped in with 12 points and five rebounds. Freshman Carlos Angel posted 11 points to go with six steals while freshman Josh Mercado scored 10 points.

McCowan had an even bigger game against Riverside, but his 24 points wasn't enough to lift the Pirates to the victory. He added five assists and four rebounds while making nine of 12 shots, including a pair of three-pointers.

Howell had a nearly perfect night shooting, as he sank five of six field goals against the Tigers, including a couple of three-point baskets on his way to 12 points. Freshman Carlos Angel almost hit double digits as he chipped in with nine points.

Porterville, now 1-4 overall, returns to action on Nov. 25 when the Pirates will compete at the three-day Bakersfield College Thanksgiving Tournament. PC opens play that Friday with a 3 p.m. game against Orange Coast College.