REDLANDS, Calif. — Occidental (19-8) fell to the University of Redlands (22-4) with a final score of 76-100 on Friday night at Currier Gym in the SCIAC Tournament Semifinal. Oxy's season ends with its first trip to the conference semis since the 2018-19 season.
The game began with the Bulldogs taking an early lead, capitalizing on turnovers and fast breaks, while Occidental struggled to maintain possession. Despite a solid defensive effort, including two blocks from
Perry Rainey, the Tigers found themselves trailing significantly as Redlands built a lead with consistent scoring inside and beyond the arc.
Nasir Luna contributed with key points, but Occidental ended the first half down 54-30, facing an uphill battle in the second half.
Occidental opened the second half with a quick 3-pointer from
Jacob Koretz, assisted by Rainey, at 19:38, attempting to close the gap. Despite a strong offensive showing, including a 3-pointer by
Peter Noble at 11:13 and consistent contributions from
Ethan Hanning, the Tigers could not overcome Redlands' substantial lead. The Bulldogs maintained their advantage throughout the half, culminating in a 100–76 victory as the game ended.
Hanning tallied 15 points, converted seven of 12 field goal attempts, and added seven rebounds. Luna contributed 14 points while shooting 5-for-6 from the field and dished out three assists.
Nicky Clotfelter scored 11 points, completing five of 10 shots, and recorded six assists along with two steals. Noble led with 17 points, hitting four 3-pointers, and collected five rebounds.
Redlands advances to host the SCIAC Championship game against Chapman on Sunday. The Panthers defeated CMS on the road, 79-68.
