THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. — Occidental College (12-13, 7-9 SCIAC) fell to California Lutheran University (21-4, 13-3 SCIAC), 77-60, at Gilbert Arena. The Tigers struggled offensively, shooting just 26.8% from the field. Despite a late surge of 25 points in the fourth quarter, the Tigers could not overcome the Regals' strong first-half performance, which included a 25-point second quarter. Occidental managed 22 points in the paint and converted 19 free throws in the contest.

Occidental began the first quarter with a focus on interior scoring, securing six points in the paint. Despite early challenges, Dara Tokeshi contributed significantly by converting two free throws following a technical foul, narrowing the gap. Paige Yasukochi's jumper, assisted by Kayla Ikuma, further reduced the deficit.

Throughout the quarter, the Tigers' defense forced turnovers, including a steal by Dominique Cabading, but the team faced a strong perimeter attack from the Regals. Cal Lutheran capitalized on three successful 3-pointers and efficient free throw shooting to maintain its lead. The quarter concluded with the Regals leading 22–11.

Cal Lutheran opened the second quarter with a strong offensive push, extending its lead through multiple successful fast-break opportunities. Emily Ko contributed to Occidental's scoring efforts by converting four free throws early in the quarter, but the team struggled with baskets, making only three of 15 attempts. Despite efforts from Micah Elegores and Paige Yasukochi in the paint, the team faced challenges securing rebounds, both offensively and defensively.

Occidental's defense worked to contain the Regals, who capitalized on second-chance points and bench contributions. Makena Daggett added points from the free-throw line, yet Cal Lutheran maintained momentum with effective perimeter shooting. The quarter concluded with Cal Lutheran leading 47-23, highlighting the need for the Tigers to adjust defensively and improve shooting efficiency in the subsequent quarters.

In the third quarter, Occidental fought to regain momentum with Paige Yasukochi's early 3-pointer, cutting the deficit to 51-26. Dominique Cabading contributed with a fast-break free throw, though consistent offensive pressure remained challenging. Despite a defensive block by Ila Giblin midway through, Cal Lutheran's persistent offensive rebounds and second-chance points extended its lead.

The Tigers' efforts were highlighted again by Emily Ko's successful free throws, and Yasukochi added a jumper, but Cal Lutheran maintained control. The quarter closed with Makena Daggett's offensive rebound and layup, bringing the score to 61-35, as Occidental trailed heading into the final quarter.

Occidental opened the fourth quarter with a defensive stand, forcing six turnovers and capitalizing on fast-break opportunities to close the gap. Paige Yasukochi led a scoring surge, securing multiple layups, while Dominique Cabading and Dara Tokeshi contributed with key free throws and a 3-pointer. Emily Ko's assist to Tokeshi at 5:01 marked a highlight, as the Tigers maintained pressure against Cal Lutheran's defense.

Occidental continued to push offensively, with Yasukochi's steal and fast-break layup narrowing the deficit. The team showed resilience, converting second-chance opportunities and maintaining composure at the free-throw line. Despite Cal Lutheran's efforts, the Tigers closed the quarter strong, ending with a 25–14 advantage in the quarter. The final score was 77–60 in favor of Cal Lutheran.

A star-studded group of seniors finished their career with a SCIAC Championship and an NCAA Tournament appearance. Yasukochi finished her four years with 1,173 points. Ainsley Shelsta scored over 900 points and collected 704 rebounds. Cabading notched 252 assists and 153 steals. Tokeshi scored 871 points and collected 154 assists and 94 steals.

Occidental Top Performers

Paige Yasukochi
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- 17 points
- 1 block
- 6 rebounds

Dara Tokeshi
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- 13 points
- 6/7 free throws made
- 3 rebounds

Emily Ko
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- 10 points
- 6/7 free throws made
- 4 assists
- 2 steals

Dominique Cabading
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- 10 points
- 8 rebounds
- 2 steals