LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Occidental College (9-2, 2-0 SCIAC) fell to Grinnell College (9-2, 4-0 Midwest Conference) with a final score of 98-89 on Monday night at Rush Gymnasium. The Tigers' effort included 56 total rebounds, surpassing the Pioneers' 47.
The game opened with the Tigers quickly finding themselves trailing as Grinnell took an early 8–0 lead.
Peter Noble ignited Occidental's offense with a layup at 16:44, followed by a fast-break 3-pointer that tightened the gap.
Alex McCleery Brown kept the Tigers competitive throughout the half, contributing with a series of key layups, a dunk, and a defensive rebound that led to a tie at 19 points each at 10:35. However, the Pioneers managed to pull ahead late in the half, establishing a significant lead. The first half concluded with Grinnell leading 57–39.
Occidental surged with a strong offensive effort, narrowing Grinnell's lead through consistent scoring in the paint and precise perimeter shooting.
Nicky Clotfelter and Noble each contributed crucial points, with Clotfelter hitting a series of key baskets, including a dunk and free throws, while Noble added two critical 3-pointers. Despite Grinnell's attempts to maintain their advantage, Occidental's persistence brought the score closer. The half concluded with a 50-41 edge for the Tigers, but Grinnell remained ahead in the game, which ended 98-89 in favor of the Pioneers.
McCleery Brown led the team with 25 points and collected 12 rebounds. Noble contributed 20 points, converting six 3-pointers. Clotfelter added 16 points and finished with eight rebounds.
Micah Breaux recorded three blocks and two steals while also distributing five assists.
