Comets Fall to San Diego City in Tournament Semifinal Thriller

EL CAJON, CA (12/7/2024) -- The Palomar College men's basketball team faced off against San Diego City College on Saturday night in a Grossmont College Invitational semifinal that showcased intense competition and dramatic momentum swings. Despite 15 lead changes and seven ties, the Comets ultimately fell to the Knights, 77-69, in their first meeting of the year.

Palomar was led by another double-double from Isaiah Pomare, who finished with 16 points, 11 rebounds, and a block while going 8-for-9 from the free-throw line. Jaidyn Norman matched Pomare's scoring output with 16 points of his own, adding six rebounds and hitting a perfect 8-for-8 from the charity stripe. Matin Madadkar provided a spark with 13 points and three rebounds, showing efficiency with 5-of-7 shooting from the field.

Max Zylicz chipped in 10 points off the bench, including a key three-pointer that kept Palomar in contention late in the second half. Isaiah Tolmaire added nine points, six rebounds, and two assists while leading the team's transition game.

The Comets kept the game close throughout, trailing just 38-33 at halftime. Palomar's defense forced nine steals and held the Knights to 4-for-13 shooting from beyond the arc, but they struggled to contain San Diego City's scoring in the paint, where the Knights held a 38-22 advantage. The Knights capitalized on turnovers, outscoring the Comets 25-13 in points off miscues.

Palomar, now 4-5 on the season, will get another shot at San Diego City College when the teams meet again on January 22 in the Dome for conference play. The Comets will look to build on their effort and refine their game as they prepare for the second half of the season.