ORANGE, Calif. — Occidental (17-7, 10-5 SCIAC) fell to Chapman University (16-8, 10-5 SCIAC) with a final score of 79-86 at Hutton Sports Center on Wednesday night. The Tigers' offense featured 10 three-pointers, but it was not enough to overcome the Panthers' 12 three-pointers and slight rebounding edge.
A game with big SCIAC implications, the Tigers will need some help from Caltech and a win over Cal Lutheran to remain in the third spot which they have held most of the season.
Occidental opened the game with a strong offensive showing, as
Perry Rainey and
Nasir Luna each hit early 3-pointers, assisted by
Atticus Boba. Luna continued to be a key player, adding another 3-pointer at 14:08 and later converting a jumper, keeping the Tigers competitive throughout the first half. Despite these efforts, the Panthers managed to pull ahead, concluding the half with a 49-38 lead after a last-second 3-pointer by Jake Heberle.
The Tigers mounted a significant comeback in the second half, closing the gap on Chapman with a 16–3 run, highlighted by Luna's jumper at 9:47 that tied the game at 67.
Nicky Clotfelter contributed crucial points in the paint, drawing a foul and making one of two free throws to keep pace. Despite their efforts, Occidental could not maintain the momentum, as the Panthers' late free throws secured their 86–79 victory.
Luna scored 22 points and added five rebounds, leading the offensive efforts. Clotfelter contributed 14 points and collected six rebounds.
Ethan Hanning was perfect from the field, scoring 11 points on four attempts and securing four rebounds.
Jacob Koretz added nine points and recorded four assists, showcasing his playmaking abilities.
Occidental has a record of 17-7 overall and 10-5 in the SCIAC. Chapman holds a record of 16-8 and also stands at 10-5 in SCIAC play.
