LOS ANGELES — Occidental secured an 80-73 victory over Pacific University on Saturday at Rush Gymnasium. The Tigers' offensive efforts were highlighted by 44 points scored in the paint and a dominant rebounding performance, which included 46 total rebounds. The Boxers managed to stay competitive with eight 3-pointers but fell short as the Tigers maintained control after taking the lead in the second half.
Alex McCleery Brown scored 22 points and collected 11 rebounds, showcasing his impact on both ends of the court.
Ethan Hanning added 16 points and made six of his 10 field goal attempts, while
Nasir Luna converted all six of his free throw attempts, contributing eight points overall.
Nicky Clotfelter provided a defensive presence with two blocks while also grabbing seven rebounds.
The game commenced with Pacific taking an early lead following two successful free throws by Max Vacco. The Tigers responded quickly, tying the score at 2 after a layup by
Peter Noble. Midway through the half, the Tigers pulled ahead 16-12, with
Henry Wilson contributing a fast-break layup. In the closing moments, the Boxers narrowed the gap to four points with a 3-pointer by Romyn Johnson, but the Tigers maintained their lead, ending the first half with a 41-35 advantage, capped by two free throws from
Henry Wilson.
Occidental maintained its lead throughout the second half, ultimately securing an 80-73 victory over Pacific. Clotfelter initiated the scoring with a jumper at 19:00, extending the home team's advantage. Hanning contributed significantly, scoring a jumper at 14:52 and adding a 3-pointer at the 1:54 mark, which widened their margin. McCleery Brown was instrumental, tallying points consistently, including a layup at 1:06 and a free throw that brought the score to 67-61 with 5:27 remaining. Despite Pacific's late rally, including a 3-pointer by Anthony Hrboka at 0:17, the Tigers' consistent free-throw shooting sealed the win.
Occidental Top Performers
McCleery Brown, Alex
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- 22 points
- 3 steals
- 11 rebounds
Hanning, Ethan
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- 16 points
- 6/10 field goals made
- 1 block
Luna, Nasir
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- 8 points
- 6/6 free throws made
- 4 rebounds
Clotfelter, Nicky
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- 8 points
- 2 blocks
- 7 rebounds
Looking ahead, Occidental will host Bethesda on Friday, Nov. 21 at 7 p.m. The game will take place in Los Angeles, California, as the Tigers look to defend their home court.
