LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Occidental College (4-0, 0-0 SCIAC) secured a decisive 86-78 victory over Lewis & Clark College (2-3, 0-0 NWC) on Saturday night at Rush Gymnasium. The Tigers dominated the paint, scoring 50 points inside, while also grabbing 49 rebounds to control the game.

Occidental opened the first half with a layup by Alex McCleery Brown, assisted by Nicky Clotfelter. The home team showcased a strong interior presence, scoring 26 points in the paint and maintaining control with 23 rebounds. Nasir Luna contributed a crucial three-pointer with 32 seconds remaining, assisted by Micah Breaux, giving the Tigers a brief lead. However, a last-second three-pointer from the Pioneers' Yigit Arcan tied the score at 39-39 by the end of the half.

Occidental surged ahead in the second half with a significant scoring run, highlighted by Clotfelter's layup and free throw in the opening seconds, assisted by Luna, which set the tone early. Ethan Hanning extended the lead with a three-pointer at 19:04, supported by Peter Noble's assist, contributing to a steady offensive rhythm. 

McCleery Brown played a prominent role, scoring multiple key baskets, including a fastbreak layup at 1:08, pushing the Tigers further ahead. The home team maintained their momentum, finishing the half with a 47–39 advantage, ultimately winning the game with a final score of 86–78.

McCleery Brown led the team with 22 points, 16 rebounds, and five assists, while also recording four steals. Luna scored 26 points, including three 3-pointers, and converted all three free-throw attempts. Clotfelter added 20 points and collected 11 rebounds, making six of nine free throws. Hanning contributed 12 points with two 3-pointers and tallied five assists. Read Full Article