CLAREMONT, Calif. — Occidental College (12-10, 7-6 SCIAC) defeated Claremont-Mudd-Scripps (17-6, 11-3 SCIAC), 65-57, in a conference matchup at Roberts Pavilion. The Tigers capitalized on 21 points from turnovers and secured 19 points off the bench. Despite the Athenas' late 26-point surge in the fourth quarter, Occidental maintained its lead from start to finish.

Occidental began the first quarter with strong defensive pressure, resulting in seven Athenas turnovers. Dominique Cabading and Ila Giblin contributed early scoring, with Giblin converting a layup to open the scoring. Paige Yasukochi added a jumper, enhancing the lead to 8–1 midway through the quarter.  

The Tigers' defensive rebounding limited second-chance opportunities for the Athenas, while Emily Ko's playmaking assisted in extending the lead. Dara Tokeshi's three-pointer at 2:08 capped an impressive offensive performance. Occidental concluded the quarter with a 15–2 advantage, establishing early momentum.

Occidental initiated the second quarter with a strategic play from Kayla Ikuma, hitting a 3-pointer, facilitated by Tokeshi, to maintain momentum. Despite turnovers, the Tigers' defense, including a block by Yasukochi, kept the Athenas from extending their scoring runs.  

Ko contributed crucial points, including a late 3-pointer and a layup, to ensure Occidental closed the quarter with a slight advantage. The quarter ended with the Athenas narrowing the gap, but the Tigers led 25–15 at halftime.

Occidental began the third quarter with a strong emphasis on paint scoring, securing a six-point advantage in that area. Cabading contributed significantly by converting all four of her free throw attempts, helping maintain the lead. A timely three-pointer from Ko, assisted by Tokeshi, further extended the Tigers' advantage midway through the quarter.

Despite the Athenas' attempts to close the gap with successful outside shooting, including a pair of 3-pointers from Caleigh Edwards, the Tigers maintained their lead. Micah Elegores scored twice in the paint in the closing minutes, strengthening Occidental's position. The quarter ended with Occidental leading 44–31 after a 19-point quarter.

Occidental started the fourth quarter strong with Cabading's prowess on defense, securing a steal that led to a scoring opportunity. Yasukochi contributed significantly, hitting a 3-pointer and a jumper, pushing the score to 51-32. The team maintained their lead by trading baskets and holding onto their defensive stops.

Despite the Athenas attempting to narrow the gap, Ko and Elegores maintained the offensive pressure, ensuring the Tigers stayed ahead. A critical assist from Tokeshi set up another successful 3-pointer for Yasukochi, extending the lead to 54-40. In the closing minutes, Occidental held firm, converting crucial free throws and securing defensive rebounds to close the game with a 65-57 victory.

Occidental Top Performers

Emily Ko  
----------------------  
- 10 points  
- 2 assists  
- 6 rebounds  

Dominique Cabading  
----------------------  
- 6 points  
- 3 steals  
- 4/4 free throws made  

Ila Giblin  
----------------------  
- 12 points  
- 7 rebounds  
- 5/8 field goals made  

Paige Yasukochi  
----------------------  
- 14 points  
- 10 rebounds  
- 4/4 free throws made  

Occidental has a record of 12-10 overall and 7-6 in SCIAC play. The Athenas hold a 17-6 overall record and are 11-3 in SCIAC competition.

Up next for Occidental is a home matchup against Redlands on Saturday, Feb. 14. The game is set for 4 p.m. at Occidental's home court in Los Angeles, California.