Stags Defeat Tigers 66-58

The Stags improved to 10-3 on the season and 2-0 in conference play as they defeated the Occidental Tigers 66-58 in Eagle Rock on Wednesday. In the first six minutes of the game, the Stags jumped out to a 12-3 lead with a stellar defensive performance. The Tigers had trouble in the first half shooting 6-22 from the field for 29%, and 3-10 from the 3-point line. The Stags outrebounded the Tigers in the first half 19-11 with five coming on the offensive end. The Stags shot 12-23 for 52.2% from the field, and 4-9 from the 3-point line. The Stags led at the break 34-21.

In the second half, the Tigers came out ready to play. They were able to get the score within four points at the 12:40 mark at 43-39, but never got any closer the rest of the game. CMS would then go on an 11-2 run to open the lead to 54-41 with nine minutes left. Although Occidental would get within six points with 1:42 to play, the Stags converted five of six free throws down the stretch and the Tigers' shooting continued to be slightly off despite having ample opportunities.

Chris Blees (JR, Carmichael), the 2009 SCIAC Player of the Year, scored a game-high 16 points, adding a team-high eight rebounds and five assists for CMS. Jason Toney (SR, Yorba Linda) had a solid night all around for CMS tonight as well with 13 points, five assists, five rebounds and four steals. Seniors Mike Bagby (Coupeville, WA) and Conner Faught (Agoura Hills) combined for 17 points and six rebounds to give the Stags that outside punch. The biggest contribution tonight, came from Patrick Lacey (JR, Orangevale), Joseph Anderson (SO, Lafayette) and Greyson Blue (FR, Kirkland, WA) who controlled the lane for the majority of the night. Lacey has continued to improve and had a great night from the field contributing 12 points, four rebounds, and three assists.

For Occidental College Eric Leider and Sean Anderson finished with 15 points collectively. Deshun McCoy poured in eight points and came away with a game-high 10 rebounds. Anderson and Leider had six rebounds apiece.

CMS (10-3, 2-0) will travel to Pasadena, Calif. on Saturday to take on the Caltech Beavers (0-13, 0-2) who were defeated by Redlands 96-64 in Pasadena. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 pm following the women's game at 5:00 pm.