PILOT ROCK — Union entered the 1A Preview Tournament in Pilot Rock facing the top-ranked 1A team in the state and mourning the loss of Jill McCraw, a person referred to by head coach Odin Miller as “one of the most important people associated with our program.”

With McCraw’s family in attendance, the Bobcats upset Crane, 58-46, on Thursday, Dec. 7, in the opening day of the tournament.

“Our boys played inspired basketball,” Miller said. “This was truly one of the most special nights of my coaching career with our guys playing with hear defensively and every single guy that walked on the court produced for us.”

The start was shaky for Union as Crane doubled up on the Bobcats and led 16-8 after the first quarter. The second quarter saw little scoring from both teams with each only adding four points to their totals.

Miller’s halftime speech was obviously inspiring as Union exploded in the third quarter for 24 points, adding 22 points in the final eight minutes. The defense held the Mustangs to nine points in the final quarter.

“We made tough shot after tough shot in the fourth to seal the deal,” Miller said. “To say I am proud is a vast understatement.”

Junior Chase Koshinsky led Union for the game with 25 points, all of those coming in the second half along with seven rebounds. Tee Ledbetter added 12 points and seven rebounds and Evan Cloutier also had seven rebounds to go with his five points.

Union (3-0 overall) continues tournament play in Pilot Rock on Dec. 8 with a game against Country Christian (2-2 overall) at 7:30 pm.