SMC Three-Game Winning Streak Snapped In 83-77 Loss to Citrus

Santa Monica College (SMC) Men’s Basketball team went against conference rival Citrus College, coming into the contest with a three-game winning streak as they make their playoff push. With four games left of the season SMC would need a win to further their chance at better seeding for the playoffs. This made the game that much more important for the Corsairs, so they can have a favorable path throughout the playoffs. Sitting at 17-7 Citrus was going to need every win they can get to make a case for the playoffs.

Early on, Citrus used their size to defensively impose their will and force SMC to shoot from beyond the three-point line. The Corsairs countered hitting their shots from beyond the perimeter, creating some ball movement to get the ball inside. At one point SMC held a 34-29 lead, but Citrus continued to play stubborn defense forcing some SMC turnovers. The Corsairs were also inconsistent at the free throw line, and missing out on those free points helped Citrus get back into the game. From then on, it was a back and forth battle between the two teams.

From the beginning of the second half all the way to the midway point of the half, the Corsairs garnered some momentum with some key shots by #5 LeAndrew Knight, and #12 Isaiah Simpson. Citrus responded by halting the Corsairs momentum by way of slowing the game down, getting to the free throw line, and using their size to get the ball inside. Once Citrus took the lead they didn’t let up, and although the game was close throughout Citrus didn’t allow the Corsairs to take back the lead. This loss is devastating in terms of making a playoff push for the Corsairs, but there are still three games left, and that should be enough for SMC to make their case for a higher seeding in the upcoming playoffs.

Santa Monica College's next game is Feb.15 against LA Valley College, at home in the Corsairs gym. Tipoff starts at 3:00pm.