WHITTIER, CA — Occidental fell to Whittier, 65-57, in a closely contested conference game at Dave Jacobs Court. The Tigers (5-5, 0-1) held a 10-point lead in the first quarter but struggled offensively in the second, scoring only two points. Despite forcing 23 turnovers and recording 14 steals, they could not maintain their advantage. Whittier (6-5, 1-2) capitalized on free throws, converting 21 of 27 attempts to secure the win.

Occidental opened the first quarter with a strong defensive presence, forcing Whittier into 11 turnovers. Ainsley Shelsta contributed significantly with points in the paint, including a layup to tie the game early. Kayla Ikuma's defensive effort led to a quick transition layup, which helped the Tigers take the lead.

Dominique Cabading's three-pointer at 3:16 extended the Tigers' lead, capitalizing on Whittier's turnovers. Ila Giblin added to the momentum with a layup and subsequent steal. The quarter ended with Micah Elegores converting from the free-throw line, giving the Tigers a 25–15 advantage over their opponents.

Whittier began the second quarter swiftly, reducing the Tigers' lead to three points with a series of successful free throws and layups. Despite strong defensive efforts resulting in four steals by the Tigers, the team struggled offensively, making only one out of 11 field goal attempts. With 25 seconds remaining, Whittier capitalized on a jumper to take a one-point lead. The quarter concluded with the hosts leading 28-27, as the Tigers managed just two points.

Occidental started the third quarter with strong defensive plays, including a steal by Cabading that led to a jumper by Paige Yasukochi, giving them an early lead. The team capitalized on second-chance opportunities, with Shelsta contributing key offensive rebounds and points in the paint. A balanced offensive effort, highlighted by assists from Yasukochi and Cabading, allowed Occidental to extend their lead to eight points at the 1:08 mark.

Whittier challenged with a brief rally, including a 3-pointer by Jadyn Patterson, cutting the deficit to one. However, the Tigers responded by controlling the pace, with Yasukochi and Shelsta adding crucial baskets. Despite Whittier's late push, the Tigers maintained their advantage, closing the quarter ahead 43-40.

Occidental entered the fourth quarter with a narrow lead but quickly saw Whittier take control with a jumper by Patterson at 9:49. Despite an early response from Shelsta, who contributed with a free throw and a layup, Whittier's effective free-throw shooting widened the gap.

Cabading's layup briefly narrowed the margin, and Yasukochi assisted Shelsta to regain a slim advantage. However, Whittier's consistent scoring, particularly from the free-throw line, allowed them to extend their lead to eight points by 1:24.

Dara Tokeshi's late three-pointer and Emily Ko's layup brought the Tigers within reach, but Whittier's Xochitl Hood sealed the game with free throws in the final seconds. The quarter concluded with Whittier leading 65-57.

Occidental Top Performers

Ainsley Shelsta
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- 20 points
- 12 rebounds
- 6/9 free throws made

Dara Tokeshi
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- 11 points
- 2 steals

Paige Yasukochi
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- 10 points
- 6 assists

Occidental holds an overall record of 5-5 and is now 0-1 in conference play. Whittier stands at 6-5 overall with a 1-2 record in conference competition.

In their next game, the Tigers will face the Claremont-M-S Athenas on Wednesday, January 7th. The matchup will take place at 7 p.m. in Rush Gymnasium.