LAS VEGAS — Occidental (7-1, 1-0 SCIAC) narrowly defeated Milwaukee School of Engineering 80-78 at South Point Arena. The Tigers maintained a slim lead throughout the game, bolstered by their 36 points in the paint. MSOE's 11 three-pointers kept the game tight, but Occidental's defense, highlighted by eight steals, helped secure the victory.
Occidental began the first half by matching their opponent's pace with strong inside play, scoring 20 points in the paint. Brown led the charge with efficient shooting, contributing significantly to a balanced offensive effort. Luna added a boost with a key three-pointer late in the half, helping Occidental seize momentum.
MSOE kept the game tight early on, benefiting from their bench with 10 points, but could not pull away. Chase Cummings provided a late push for MSOE with crucial baskets, yet Occidental's defensive stops and quick fast breaks kept them at bay. The half closed with Occidental holding a narrow 41-38 lead.
Occidental started the second half by maintaining a narrow lead, with Clotfelter's jumper at 18:11 putting the team ahead 43-40. Despite turnovers and fouls early on, the Tigers managed to keep pace with MSOE, highlighted by Clotfelter's defensive rebound and subsequent scoring plays.
Midway through the half, MSOE momentarily took control, but Noble and Luna responded with key baskets, allowing Occidental to regain a slim advantage. A fastbreak layup and subsequent free throw by Brown at 3:51 swung the momentum back to Occidental, giving them a 71-69 lead.
In the closing moments, Luna and Clotfelter ensured Occidental's lead, with Clotfelter contributing a critical block and points from the free-throw line. Occidental finished the half strong, securing an 80-78 victory as the clock expired.
Nasir Luna led the team with 25 points, converting 7 of 8 free throws and making four 3-pointers.
Nicky Clotfelter contributed 23 points and 11 rebounds, adding two blocks to his performance.
Alex McCleery Brown scored 17 points and recorded three steals, while also collecting seven rebounds.
Peter Noble made two steals and added six points, including two 3-pointers.
Occidental Top Performers
Alex McCleery Brown
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- 17 points
- 8/13 field goals made
- 7 rebounds
- 3 steals
Nasir Luna
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- 25 points
- 4/6 three-pointers made
- 7/8 free throws made
- 4 rebounds
Nicky Clotfelter
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- 23 points
- 2 blocks
- 11 rebounds
- 4 assists
Looking ahead, Occidental will host East Texas Baptist University on Thursday, Jan. 1, at 2 p.m. The matchup will take place in Los Angeles, California, as they aim to secure a home victory to start the new year.
