PASADENA — Jay Miller scored 24 points, Andrew Johnson added 16 points and 10 rebounds, and the Occidental men's basketball team played tough defense in a 61-45 win at Caltech in the team's season opener on Tuesday.

Miller, who was a First Team All-SCIAC selection last season, went 9 for 18 from the field and 4 for 9 from the 3-point line.

Johnson, a Second Team All-SCIAC selection in 2015-16, overcame a slow start, hitting key shots down the stretch as Oxy opened up a 19-point lead with 1:25 remaining in the game.

The Tigers played full court defense and denied passes in the half court, throwing Caltech out of its offense and limiting the Beavers to 31 percent shooting, including 27 percent in the second half.

Austin Dewitz led the way, keeping 6-foot-10 Caltech big man Nasser Al-Rayes to just five points on 1 for 7 shooting. 

Ryan Kaneshiro was also terrific on defense, pressuring Caltech's guards all over the court. The first year finished with seven points, four assists and eight rebounds.

"Our defense was as good as it's been in a long time," Oxy head coach Brian Newhall said. "Austin and Ryan really jump the intensity to another level. Pressuring and guarding the ball will be our identity all season."

Oxy off guard Joe Compagno chipped in six points and four rebounds, making key drives late in the game to free up Oxy shooters.

Alec Andrews led Calech with 12 points, and David LeBaron and Ricky Galliani added 10.

Next Game: The Tigers are back in action in an exhibition game on Thursday against Westmont at Rush Gymnasium at 7:30 pm.