LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Occidental (3-0, 0-0 SCIAC) secured a decisive 114-83 victory over Bethesda University of California (0-5) on Thursday night at Rush Gymnasium. The home team dominated in the paint with 58 points and recorded 40 points from the bench.
Occidental opened the game with strong offensive execution, establishing control early with a series of successful plays in the paint.
Nasir Luna contributed significantly, scoring a jumper at 19:30 and later sinking a 3-pointer at 16:41. The Tigers demonstrated efficiency, shooting 22-of-37 from the field, and held a decisive lead at the end of the first half, 56–35.
Occidental built momentum with a series of strategic plays, highlighted by
Alex McCleery Brown's offensive rebound and assist leading to an
Ethan Hanning layup at 18:54, extending their lead to 58–37. The home team further capitalized on the Flames' turnovers, converting free throws and fast breaks, including a layup by
Peter Noble assisted by
Nicky Clotfelter at 13:47, strengthening their position at 75–56.
Occidental's robust paint presence was evident as they recorded 30 points inside, complemented by a solid bench contribution of 22 points. The second half concluded with Occidental outscoring their opponent 58–48, leading to a decisive 114–83 victory as the game ended.
Luna led the team with 18 points, converting 6 of 10 from the field and a perfect 4 of 4 from the free-throw line. Clotfelter contributed significantly with 17 points, going 7 for 11 on field goals, while also adding four assists. McCleery Brown posted 13 points and collected seven rebounds, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the court. Noble added 13 points and distributed five assists, complementing his team's offensive efforts.
The Tigers are back in action tomorrow night against Lewis & Clark - the reigning Northwest Conference champions - in Rush Gym at 7 p.m.
