WOODLAND HILLS, Calif. (Interstat) — The Los Angeles Pierce Brahmas used a dominant defensive performance and a career-high 31 points from Andrew Shackelford to pull away from the winless Los Angeles City Cubs for an 82-70 victory in a California men’s junior college basketball game Wednesday night.

Despite a high-scoring first half, the game was ultimately decided by a stifling Brahmas defense that forced 25 turnovers and converted them into a significant advantage in transition. Pierce recorded 23 steals, more than doubling the Cubs’ total of 10, which fueled their offense throughout the contest.

The first half was an offensive showcase, with both teams trading baskets at a rapid pace. The Brahmas held a narrow 43-42 lead at halftime after a quarter that saw both teams eclipse 40 points. The pace slowed considerably in the second half as Pierce’s defensive pressure began to wear down Los Angeles City. The Cubs were held to just 28 points after the break, unable to sustain their early shooting efficiency.

Shackelford was the engine for the Brahmas, playing 38 minutes and adding 10 rebounds and four assists to his game-high 31 points. His all-around effort anchored Pierce, which improved its season record to 3-2.

Mandell Anthony provided a significant spark off the bench for the Brahmas, scoring 15 points and tying for a team-high with four steals. DJ Maron-Gaines also came up big with 11 points and five steals, part of a bench unit that out-hustled the Cubs. Pete Arrington contributed seven points, four rebounds and two blocks for a Pierce defense that also registered four blocks as a team.

Los Angeles City, which fell to 0-6, was led by Devean Mpoupe-Singui’s 19 points and seven rebounds. Jaelin Brown recorded a double-double for the Cubs with 10 points and 13 rebounds, but also committed a team-high six turnovers against the relentless Pierce defense.

While the Cubs shot a respectable 54 percent from the floor, their 25 turnovers proved catastrophic. The Brahmas were more opportunistic with the ball, dishing out 23 assists on 32 made field goals, showcasing superior ball movement and decision-making.

The game’s outcome defied pregame projections from Interstat, whose ELO system had given Los Angeles City a slight 51.4 percent probability to win, and whose simulator had predicted a 100-100 tie.

Pierce now looks ahead to a road game at San Diego Mesa on Dec. 3. Los Angeles City will attempt to secure its first win of the season when it hosts Orange Coast on Friday.