OCC ends Gauchos streak

MISSION VIEJO -- Orange Coast College remained unbeaten in Orange Empire Conference play by topping Saddleback College, 75-70, in men’s basketball Wednesday night.

It was the Pirates’ first win over Saddleback in 14 seasons.

The Pirates (16-6, 3-0) were down by as much as 20 points in the first half, but rallied to take the lead for good on Steve Mendoza’s three-pointer with 4:45 remaining in the game.

Lance Ortiz led the way with 25 points and Mendoza added 14 points, including four three-pointers for the Pirates, who scored 50 second-half points.

Saddleback fell to 16-4, 1-2.

Orange Empire Conference

Orange Coast 75, Saddleback 70

Score by Quarters