LOS ANGELES — Occidental (9-9, 4-5 SCIAC) defeated the University of La Verne (5-13, 1-7 SCIAC), 67-46, at Rush Gymnasium, capitalizing on 28 turnovers by the visitors. The home team recorded 18 steals and scored 23 points off turnovers to secure the conference victory.

Occidental began the game assertively with Dominique Cabading's early 3-pointer at 9:54, setting the tone for the quarter. Cabading contributed significantly, adding a layup and assisting Paige Yasukochi's basket, helping the home team maintain momentum. Kayla Ikuma also added a crucial 3-pointer at 6:03, extending the lead. Despite La Verne's attempts to close the gap, including Samantha Miller's late jumper, the Tigers finished the first quarter ahead 17-8.

Oxy seized control in the second quarter with a strong defensive effort, forcing the Leopards into multiple turnovers and converting them into fast-break points. Megan Delgado's layup at 6:57 highlighted a 10-point surge that widened the lead. Paige Yasukochi's layup at the buzzer capped a consistent offensive performance, as Occidental outscored La Verne 22–11 in the quarter, closing the half ahead 39–19.

The Tigers dominated the third quarter with a decisive 12–8 advantage, highlighted by Paige Yasukochi's pivotal three-pointer at 5:53, extending their lead significantly. Cabading facilitated key plays, contributing assists on crucial baskets, including a jumper at 7:50 and a three-pointer by Yasukochi. La Verne struggled to maintain possession, committing multiple turnovers, which Occidental capitalized on with effective defensive pressure. The quarter concluded with Occidental ahead, 51–27, maintaining control of the game.

Occidental maintained control in the fourth quarter despite the Leopards' attempts to close the gap. Micah Elegores opened with a jumper at 9:45, establishing a strong start, while Cabading contributed crucial defensive plays with a steal and multiple rebounds. Dara Tokeshi converted two free throws at 7:20, extending the lead further. Although La Verne outscored Occidental 19–16 in the quarter, the home team held its ground, winning the game 67–46.

Cabading scored 17 points and recorded six assists, while also contributing significantly with nine steals. Yasukochi added 14 points while collecting five rebounds and two steals. Emily Ko posted four steals and two blocks, impacting the defensive end. Ikuma finished with six points, converting both of her 3-point attempts, and recorded three steals.

Occidental holds a 9-9 overall record and stands at 4-5 in SCIAC play. The Leopards are currently 5-13 overall with a 1-7 record in the SCIAC.

Looking ahead, Occidental will host Caltech on Saturday, Jan. 31. The game is set for 4 p.m. at their home court in Los Angeles, California.