LOS ANGELES — Occidental (15-4, 8-2 SCIAC) defeated Caltech (3-17, 0-11 SCIAC), 101-72, at Rush Gymnasium on Saturday night. Occidental's offense was bolstered by 28 assists and a dominant 52 rebounds, leading to a commanding win.
Occidental opened the game with a strong offensive performance, highlighted by
Nasir Luna's early jumper at 19:22, assisted by
Atticus Boba. The team maintained control through impressive shooting, including a key 3-pointer by Luna at 16:45, as well as effective ball movement, resulting in 15 assists in the half. Despite Caltech's efforts to keep pace, including several lead changes, Oxy's dominance in the paint, where they scored 28 points, helped them establish a 49–36 lead by the end of the first half.
Occidental took control of the second half with a strong offensive display, opening with a fast-break dunk by
Alex McCleery Brown at 19:26. McCleery Brown continued to lead the charge, contributing a series of layups and free throws, helping to build a significant lead. Luna added to the momentum with consecutive jumpers and a 3-pointer, extending Oxy's advantage. Despite Caltech's attempts to close the gap, including a late 3-pointer by Robert Jackson, Occidental maintained their lead to finish the half ahead 101–72. The game ended with Oxy securing a decisive victory, with a final score of 101–72.
Luna led the way with 31 points, converting 12 of 18 field goals, including five 3-pointers, while also collecting nine rebounds. McCleery Brown added a double-double, scoring 23 points with a perfect 7-for-7 from the free-throw line and pulling down 13 rebounds.
Nicky Clotfelter contributed 14 points and six assists, making seven field goals. Boba added nine points and facilitated the offense with five assists.
Occidental improved to 15-4 overall and 8-2 in SCIAC play. Caltech fell to 3-17 overall and 0-11 in SCIAC competition.
The Tigers will travel to Claremont, CA on February 4th to take on the Pomona-Pitzer Sagehens in their next game.
