CLAREMONT, Calif. — Occidental (9-3, 2-1 SCIAC) fell to No. 11 Claremont-M-S (13-0, 4-0 SCIAC) with a final score of 94-86 on Thursday at Roberts Pavilion. Occidental's efforts included 10 three-pointers and a strong 81.8 percent free throw shooting performance.
Occidental began the game trading baskets, highlighted by
Nicky Clotfelter's early tip-in after an offensive rebound to put the team on the board.
Alex McCleery Brown's three-pointer at 17:15 tied the game at 5-5, showcasing the team's ability to respond quickly. With consistent scoring contributions from various players, including a notable three-pointer by
Jacob Koretz at 12:30, Occidental kept the pace.
Despite Occidental's efforts, the Stags maintained pressure with a series of fast-break points and points in the paint, gradually building a lead. Clotfelter and
Chase Miller made vital contributions from the free-throw line to keep the visitors close, but the Stags' strong finish extended their advantage. The period concluded with Occidental trailing 47-33.
Occidental started the second half with a focus on closing the scoring gap against the Stags. McCleery Brown contributed significantly, hitting a 3-pointer at 18:05 and later scoring layups and free throws to keep the pressure on. Despite Occidental's efforts, the Stags maintained a steady lead, largely due to their efficiency from the free-throw line.
As the half progressed,
Peter Noble's 3-pointer at 9:34 and
Nasir Luna's fast-break layup at 0:33 highlighted Occidental's offensive push. The team closed the half with a strong run, including a late 3-pointer by Luna and clutch free throws by McCleery Brown, cutting the deficit. The game concluded with the Stags leading 94-86.
McCleery Brown led the team with 26 points, connecting on 8 of 10 field goals and making 3 of 4 from beyond the arc. Luna contributed 15 points, hitting 6 of 12 field goals and adding four rebounds. Clotfelter posted 13 points, converting 5 of 10 shots from the field and securing four rebounds. Koretz added nine points, sinking three treys.
Occidental holds a 9-3 overall record and is 2-1 in SCIAC play. The Stags remain undefeated with a 13-0 overall record and 4-0 in SCIAC competition.
