CYPRESS, CA – The Cypress College men's basketball team (13-6, 2-1 OEC) picked up a big win at home over the defending Orange Empire Conference champion Orange Coast Pirates on Wednesday night, 104-67. The Chargers broke the 100-point mark for the first time in Coach Alhadeff's tenure and the 104 point total is the most in a game for men's basketball since 2009 (L, 118-115 vs. Barstow).
It was a closely contested game for much of the first half. However, the Chargers managed to pull away with a 13-5 run to end the half, taking a 41-30 lead into the break.
Cypress had arguably their most dominant performance of the season in the second half as the Chargers outscored the Pirates 63-37 in the final frame.
The Chargers, who are one of the top defensive teams in the state, held the Pirates in check. OCC turned the ball over 20 times, while being held to just 32% shooting from the floor. Despite missing two starters, Cypress was unstoppable on the offensive end, winning the points in the paint battle 54-20 and shooting an efficient 56% from the floor.
The Barnes brothers led the way for the Chargers against OCC, connecting on numerous occasions. Freshman Kamron Barnes finished with a game-high 19 points on 8-of-13 shooting, while grabbing 8 rebounds. Freshman Kae'jon Barnes finished with a double-double, scoring 18 points with 14 boards on the night. Sophomores Kyle Small and Jason McClung chipped in with 15 points each.
Men's basketball will return to action on the road this Friday night against the Santa Ana College Dons. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:00pm.
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