IRVINE, Calif. — The Cal State Dominguez Hills men's basketball team showed resilience and determination but came up short in a 72-59 contest against Concordia University Irvine on Thursday evening at CU Arena. The Toros showcased their depth and energy throughout the game, especially during a strong second-half push, but ultimately fell to the Eagles.

The Toros started with early contributions from Luke Lin, who hit a jumper at 18:48 to get Dominguez Hills on the board. Although Concordia built a lead with their perimeter shooting, the Toros stayed competitive, highlighted by a three-pointer from Jeremy Dent-Smith at 14:41 to cut the deficit to six. Adam Afifi added two key free throws at 13:23 to keep Dominguez Hills within striking distance. Despite trailing 36-27 at halftime, the Toros' intensity set the tone for a more balanced second half.

Dominguez Hills opened the second half with purpose, as Isaiah Bernard-Lopez knocked down a three-pointer just 19 seconds in, trimming the Eagles' lead to six. JT Tan's layup at 18:09 further tightened the scoreline. The Toros showed their defensive grit, with Dent-Smith forcing a key steal that led to a fastbreak layup at 9:23, pulling Dominguez Hills to within three at 52-49.

The Toros continued to battle, with Alex Garcia and Afifi scoring critical baskets in the paint, but Concordia capitalized on key opportunities in the closing minutes to secure the win. A late layup by Afifi at 1:51 highlighted the Toros' determination, cutting the deficit to nine, but the Eagles sealed the game at the free-throw line.

Afifi led Dominguez Hills with 11 points and two rebounds, while Dent-Smith added 10 points, four steals, and two assists in a strong two-way performance. Tan contributed six points and four rebounds, providing valuable energy and interior presence. Despite shooting 22% from beyond the arc, the Toros found success in the paint with 38 points.

The Toros return to action to face Fresno Pacific on the road Tuesday, November 26th, at 3:00 p.m.