Olympians Secure Home Win, Host Fighting Cacti Next

Chanel Mballa led the team in scoring with 15 points, 10 rebounds, 2 blocks, and a steal. 

(Photo: Nicole Noel)
Chanel Mballa led the team in scoring with 15 points, 10 rebounds, 2 blocks, and a steal. (Photo: Nicole Noel)

The men's basketball team improved to a 3-2 record with a solid 65-59 home win against LA Harbor College. This victory marks their second consecutive win, following a close 59-58 win over Los Angeles City College last Friday.

One trait that's become evident early this season is the team's resilience and ability to fight back. Against Los Angeles City, the Olympians found themselves down 35-19 at halftime. However, after some key adjustments by the coaching staff, the team rallied in the second half, outscoring Los Angeles City 40-23 to secure the win. 

Against LA Harbor, Isiah Baker and Chanel Mballa led the team in scoring with 15 points each. Baker had an outstanding all-around performance, finishing the day with 7 steals, 5 assists, 2 blocks, and a rebound. Mballa dominated the boards, adding 10 rebounds, 2 blocks, and a steal to his stat line. 

Additionally, both Tayne McCann and Jaylon Hall contributed with 12 points. McCann added 3 assists, a steal, and 1 rebound, while Hall went 2 for 3 from the three-point line and added an assist and a steal. 

The team, now boasting a 3-2 record, will host Copper Mountain College on Friday. The Fighting Cacti currently hold a 3-3 record, riding the momentum of two consecutive wins against Grossmont College (89-67) and Palomar College (63-61). Tip-off is scheduled for 3:00 p.m.