Comets Close Non-Conference Play with Big Wins Over Top Teams
| Final | 1 | 2 | T | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Pasadena City (8-6) | 42 | 32 | 74 |
|
Palomar (8-5) | 44 | 32 | 76 |
SAN MARCOS, CA (12/28/2024) -- The Palomar College men's basketball team ended their non-conference schedule with a strong 7-5 record, highlighted by two marquee wins over No. 9 Santiago Canyon and No. 20 Pasadena City College. The Comets defeated Orange Coast College 79-60 on Dec. 13 and Southwestern College 74-62 on Dec. 18 before capping the stretch with a thrilling 76-74 victory over Pasadena on Dec. 28.
In their final non-conference game, the Comets showed incredible poise and grit to hold off Pasadena City. With just 18 seconds left, the Lancers scored a layup to cut Palomar's lead to one point. Max Zylicz was fouled with two seconds remaining and, after missing the first free throw, calmly sank the second to push the lead to two. Pasadena attempted to roll the ball to halfcourt to set up a final shot, but Jaidyn Norman pressured the Lancers into touching the ball early, then secured a game-sealing steal as time expired.
Isaiah Pomare delivered another stellar performance, finishing with 19 points and 10 rebounds, his latest in a string of dominant outings. Zylicz added 17 points, including three three-pointers, and his clutch free throw proved decisive. Norman contributed 15 points, four rebounds, and four assists, while Matin Madadkar chipped in 12 points on 5-of-7 shooting. Palomar shot an impressive 51.7% from the field, overcoming Pasadena's advantage in second-chance points.
Earlier in December, the Comets showcased their depth against Orange Coast. Matin Madadkar led the way with 21 points, and Tolmaire added 20 in a game that saw Palomar dominate the boards and convert second-chance opportunities​.
Palomar now turns their attention to conference play, where they started strong with a 74-62 win over Southwestern College on Dec. 18. They'll look to continue their momentum as they visit San Diego Mesa College on Thursday night. The Comets are eager to build on their non-conference success as they aim for a strong showing in the conference schedule.