Bearcats drop game in Claremont

CLAREMONT, Calif. — The Willamette University basketball team fell to the Claremont-Mudd-Scripps basketball team 92-81 on Saturday at Roberts Pavilion. The Bearcats connected on 15 three-pointers but struggled with 39.7% shooting from the field overall. The Stags capitalized with 60 points in the paint and maintained a 19-point lead at one point in the second half.

ClaremontMuddScripps seized control early with a strong performance in the paint, scoring 32 points inside to Willamette's 10, which contributed to a 45-29 lead at the end of the first half. The Bearcats struggled with turnovers, committing 10, and were outpaced in fast-break points, 16 to 5. Despite converting six 3-pointers and securing nine offensive rebounds, they were unable to match the home team's 59 percent shooting accuracy from the field.

The Bearcats' offensive burst in the second half was highlighted by their nine 3-pointers, enabling them to outscore the Stags 52-47. Despite this surge, the Stags maintained their lead by capitalizing on points in the paint, tallying 28 compared to Willamette's 16, and effectively utilizing fast breaks to score 15 points. At the end of the half, the Stags held a 92-81 advantage.

The Bearcats hold a record of 2-5. The Stags remain unbeaten with a 5-0 record.

In their next game, Willamette will travel to Claremont, California, to face the University of California Santa Cruz. The matchup is set for Monday, Nov. 24 at 5 p.m.