Los Angeles, Calif. — Occidental (19-7, 11-5 SCIAC) secured a narrow 88-84 victory over Cal Lutheran (13-13, 8-8 SCIAC) in Rush Gymnasium. Occidental led by nine at halftime and maintained its composure despite a strong second-half effort from Cal Lutheran, who outscored the Tigers by five after the break. Occidental's bench contributed 25 points, while the Kingsmen had the edge with 21 fast-break points.
Occidental opened the game with a strong offensive performance, highlighted by
Nasir Luna's early three-pointer at 19:08, assisted by
Perry Rainey. The Tigers dominated the paint, scoring 20 points inside, and effectively utilized its bench, contributing 15 points. The team's efficient shooting and strong rebounding performance, securing 16 total rebounds, allowed it to maintain control. As the half concluded, Occidental led 44–35.
Occidental gained momentum in the second half with a decisive 15–0 run, beginning at 18:03 with a
Jacob Koretz layup and culminating in a
Peter Noble 3-pointer at 13:41. Luna's contributions, including a key assist and a 3-pointer at 5:34, kept the Tigers ahead.
Despite Cal Lutheran's late push with consecutive 3-pointers by Jaden Young in the final minute, Occidental maintained its lead and the game ended with Occidental securing an 88–84 victory.
Luna scored 26 points and made 10 of 12 free throws, including the final two free throws of the game that secured the win for the Tigers.
Nicky Clotfelter contributed with 11 rebounds and seven assists, impacting both ends of the floor. Koretz added 10 points and recorded three steals, showcasing defensive capabilities. Noble finished with 11 points, converting three of six attempts from beyond the arc.
With the win the Tigers will now travel to Redlands, CA to take on the Redlands Bulldogs in the SCIAC Tournament semifinal game. The game is set for tip-off at 7:00PM.
