LOS ANGELES — Occidental College (12-11, 7-7 SCIAC) fell to the University of Redlands (17-5, 10-4 SCIAC), 67-60, in a tense conference matchup at Rush Gymnasium on Saturday. Despite a strong showing in the paint with 34 points, the Tigers struggled to capitalize on their opportunities at the free-throw line, going 13 of 20. The Bulldogs secured the win by converting 20 of 23 free throws and maintaining a slight edge in rebounding with a 44-39 advantage.

Occidental began the game on the back foot, struggling to find the basket early in the first quarter. Despite a determined effort in the paint, the team converted only 3 of 18 field goals. Paige Yasukochi put the Tigers on the board with a jumper at 5:28, and Micah Elegores added two layups, the second at the 40-second mark. Redlands capitalized on its opportunities, building a lead with consistent scoring. The quarter concluded with the Tigers trailing 15–6.

Occidental found momentum midway through the second quarter, highlighted by Dominique Cabading's pivotal 3-pointer that cut into Redlands' lead at 1:21. Despite the Bulldogs' pressure, the Tigers managed to outscore their opponent 20-18 in the quarter, with Cabading contributing crucial points from the free-throw line in the final minute. The quarter concluded with Redlands holding a 33-26 advantage.

The Tigers mounted a brief surge in the third quarter, highlighted by Cabading's layup and free throw at 8:43, which narrowed the gap. Yasukochi contributed significantly, scoring multiple times, including a jumper at 6:51 to keep the Tigers close. Despite their efforts, the quarter ended with both teams scoring 16 points each, leaving Redlands ahead 49–42 going into the final quarter.

Occidental mounted a comeback early in the fourth quarter, narrowing the gap to 49-48 with 7:49 remaining after Yasukochi hit two free throws. Emily Ko's three-pointer at 3:05, assisted by Yasukochi, kept the home team within striking distance at 59-56. Despite these efforts, Redlands extended its lead with successful free throws in the final minute, ending the game 67-60.

Cabading led with 14 points and secured 13 rebounds, showcasing defensive tenacity with four steals. Yasukochi added 14 points, converting 6 of 8 shots, and recorded two steals and two assists. Ko contributed eight points and collected five rebounds, while Dara Tokeshi made an impact defensively with two steals.

Occidental holds a record of 12-11 overall and 7-7 in SCIAC play. Redlands stands at 17-5 overall and 10-4 in SCIAC competition.

Looking ahead, the Tigers will host Chapman on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. in Los Angeles, California.