Stags Reach Final, Defeat Oxy, Force Re-Match With 'Hens

CLAREMONT, CA -- Despite ending the regular season on a sour note, the #1 Stags (20-6, 11-3 SCIAC) were able to continue their winning ways and defeat #4 Occidental (17-9, 9-5 SCIAC) 65-62 in front of a big crowd at Ducey Gym. The Stags will play in the SCIAC Tournament Final, which will decide the SCIAC's automatic qualifier for the NCAA Tournament.

The Stags were able to get their offense firing on all cylinders, something that they were not able to do in their two previous games. CMS shot 50% from the field in the first half compared to Occidental's 42.9%. The Stags were able to establish an inside presence on offense, which allowed them to take control of the lead in the waning minutes of the first half. By half-time, the score was 37-27.  

In the second half, the Tigers quickly pulled within a few baskets in the first couple of minutes. After multiple lead changes, the Stags took control of the game towards the end. Clutch free-throw shooting by Conner Faught (SR, Agoura Hills [pictured]) in the closing seconds sealed the win for the Stags.

Four Stags scored in double-figures. Chris Blees (JR, Carmichael) finished with 13 points, seven rebounds, and four steals.  Joseph Anderson (SO, Lafayette) was one rebound short of a double-double and scored ten points. Jason Toney (SR, Yorba Linda) also scored ten points with three rebounds, five assists, and two steals. Faught scored ten points and two assists.

CMS will look to avenge their loses to Pomona-Pitzer as they compete in the tournament Final on Saturday, Feb. 27. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM.