Chargers Grind Out Overtime Win in Home Opener Over Long Beach, 72–65

CYPRESS, CA - The Cypress College Chargers battled through a physical contest and came away with a hard-fought 72–65 overtime victory over Long Beach in their home opener Wednesday night at Cypress College. 

After leading 27–16 at halftime, Cypress weathered a second-half surge by the Vikings, who outscored the Chargers 45–34 in the second frame to force overtime. Locked at 61 at the end of regulation, Cypress responded with its best defensive effort of the night in the extra period, holding Long Beach to just four points while scoring 11 to seal the win.

Michael Wright led the Chargers with a monster all-around performance, posting 15 points and a game-high 20 rebounds to control the paint on both ends of the floor. Moises Hernandez also delivered an efficient night offensively, pouring in a team-high 16 points on 7-of-11 shooting while grabbing nine rebounds. 

The Chargers dominated the glass, outrebounding Long Beach 56–40 and converting 18 second-chance points. Cypress also controlled the paint, outscoring Long Beach 32–18 inside, which proved to be a decisive factor in overtime. 

Defensively, Cypress forced 12 turnovers and recorded six steals, using timely stops to close out the game in overtime. Despite a tough shooting night from deep, the Chargers stayed aggressive, went 19-of-30 from the free throw line, and leaned on rebounding and effort to earn the win.

UP NEXT: The Chargers head to Grossmont College to play in the Grossmont Tournament on December 5th.

 Stay connected with the Chargers through social media. Follow Cypress College Athletics on X (Formerly Twitter) @CypressChargers. Check in with the Chargers on Facebook/CypressChargers and on Instagram @CypressChargers.