LAS VEGAS — Occidental College (4-3) fell to Gettysburg College (7-4), 68-53, at South Point Arena. The Tigers initially led after the first quarter but were outscored 22-10 in the second quarter, shifting momentum to Gettysburg. The home team's 24 points in the paint and a 10-point contribution from fast breaks were not enough to overcome Gettysburg's advantage in total rebounds and points in the paint.
Occidental began the first quarter with a strong start, establishing an early 8-0 lead through effective interior scoring, highlighted by
Ainsley Shelsta's contributions in the paint. The team capitalized on Gettysburg's turnovers, scoring six points off turnovers and maintaining defensive pressure to control the pace. Despite the Bullets' attempts to close the gap, including a late layup by Skylar Reale, the Tigers maintained their advantage.
The visiting team concluded the quarter leading 13-10, successfully holding off Gettysburg's late surge to secure a narrow lead heading into the second quarter.
Occidental opened the second quarter with a brief lead, bolstered by two free throws from
Emily Ko.
Paige Yasukochi's steal at 9:03 provided a defensive highlight, though the follow-up turnover quickly shifted momentum. Despite challenges in maintaining offensive rhythm,
Dara Tokeshi's fast-break layup regained a narrow lead at 7:28. However, the Bullets responded with a series of successful plays, taking advantage of fast-break opportunities and securing a 22–10 run in the quarter. As the quarter closed, Occidental's late jumper by
Dominique Cabading narrowed the score slightly, yet Gettysburg held a 32–23 advantage at halftime.
The third quarter opened with momentum shifting towards Gettysburg as they connected on two quick baskets, including a 3-pointer by Kimberly Hopkins. The Tigers responded with a strong interior presence, highlighted by
Kayla Ikuma's layup, bringing their score to 27. However, Gettysburg's Ava O'Neil countered with consistent scoring in the paint, extending their lead.
Occidental's defensive efforts included crucial rebounds by Shelsta and Ko, which helped limit the Bullets' fast-break opportunities. Cabading contributed offensively with a layup midway through the quarter.
Nicole Vanegas capitalized on free-throw opportunities, narrowing the gap slightly to 32.
Despite the efforts, Gettysburg maintained control, converting key possessions and ending the quarter with a 3-pointer from Olivia Jones. The quarter concluded with Gettysburg leading 48–33, as they continued to capitalize on their shooting efficiency.
Occidental began the fourth quarter with a strong effort, highlighted by a fast-break layup from Tokeshi assisted by Cabading. Vanegas completed an early three-point play, bringing the Tigers closer. Despite the Bullets' scoring efforts, including a three-pointer by Jones, Occidental maintained competitiveness.
As the quarter progressed, Yasukochi's three-pointer at 6:07 kept the Tigers within reach, narrowing the gap to 12 points. Ko contributed with a layup and a three-pointer, while Cabading added a layup and free throw to continue Occidental's scoring push. The Bullets, however, responded with consistent scoring to maintain their lead.
Occidental closed the quarter with strong defensive efforts, including a block by Ko, but Gettysburg's late free throws solidified their position. The fourth quarter ended with both teams scoring 20 points, resulting in a final score of Gettysburg 68, Occidental 53.
Occidental Top Performers
Dominique Cabading
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- 11 points
- 4 assists
- 8 rebounds
Paige Yasukochi
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- 7 points
- 2 steals
- 3 rebounds
Ainsley Shelsta
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- 11 points
- 5 baskets made
- 10 rebounds
Occidental holds a 4-3 overall record. Gettysburg currently has a 7-4 overall record and 1-0 in Centennial conference play.
In their next game, Occidental will face Salve Regina on Tuesday, Dec. 30 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Tip-off is set for 10 a.m.
