PASADENA, Calif. — Occidental (10-3, 3-1 SCIAC) secured a decisive 84-54 victory over Caltech (3-11, 0-5 SCIAC) on Saturday night at the Braun Athletic Center. The Tigers dominated the boards with 58 total rebounds, including 26 on the offensive end.
Alex McCleery Brown scored 30 points, hitting 11 of 17 shots, and added 12 rebounds. It was McCleery Brown's second double-double of the week. He averaged 27 ppg and 8.3 rebounds in a three game span. The sophomore has broken out in a huge way in year two, leading the Tigers in points (247) and rebounds (117).
Nasir Luna contributed 14 points, making all four of his free throws.
Peter Noble recorded four steals and added seven points.
Perry Rainey posted six rebounds and two steals.
The Tigers started strong with a series of defensive plays, including six steals, to keep the Beavers at bay. McCleery Brown led the charge with 14 points, including a pivotal 3-pointer at 14:10, assisted by
Micah Breaux. This play initiated a run that stretched the Tigers' lead to 12–6 by 13:40. Despite turnovers, the team capitalized on second-chance opportunities, highlighted by McCleery Brown's tip-in at 4:04. The half concluded with Luna's jumper at 0:27, securing a 37–29 advantage for the Tigers.
Occidental dominated the second half, capitalizing on offensive rebounds to extend their lead. Brown contributed significantly with multiple layups and a key steal, while
Nicky Clotfelter and Luna added to the scoring with efficient shots in the paint. Despite Caltech's efforts, including frequent trips to the free-throw line, the Tigers maintained control, ending the half with a substantial 47-25 scoring advantage. The game concluded with Occidental on top, securing an 84-54 victory.
The Tigers improved to 10-3 overall and 3-1 in SCIAC play after their victory. Caltech fell to 3-11 overall and 0-5 in conference competition.
