CYPRESS, Calif. (Interstat) — In a game defined by grinding defense and offensive struggles, the Cypress Chargers outlasted the Long Beach Vikings 72-65 in overtime in a California Community College men’s basketball contest Wednesday night.

The game, which saw both teams shoot under 33 percent from the floor, was a battle of attrition that required an extra period to decide after a last-second shot in regulation. Cypress improved its season record to 3-2, while Long Beach fell to 1-5.

A dominant performance on the glass by Cypress, particularly Michael Wright, proved to be the difference. The Chargers outrebounded the Vikings 56-40, with a decisive 22-12 advantage on the offensive boards that led to numerous second-chance opportunities. Wright was a force, recording a double-double with 15 points and a game-high 20 rebounds to go with four assists in 40 minutes of action.

The contest was a tale of two halves, with a high-scoring first half giving way to a defensive slog after halftime. Cypress led 27-16 after a fast-paced first quarter and took a 61-45 lead into the locker room at halftime. The third quarter, however, was a dramatic reversal. The Long Beach defense locked in, holding the Chargers to just 11 points while managing only four points themselves, setting the stage for a tense fourth quarter.

Long Beach mounted a methodical comeback in the final period of regulation, chipping away at the double-digit deficit. The Vikings’ effort was capped by a Lawrence Brown jump shot as time expired in the second half, tying the game and forcing overtime.

In the extra period, Cypress regained its composure and its offensive efficiency. The Chargers capitalized on their free-throw opportunities and defensive stops to pull away for the victory. For the game, Cypress went 19 for 30 from the foul line, while Long Beach made 13 of its 18 attempts.

Beyond Wright’s standout performance, Moises Hernandez provided crucial support for Cypress with 16 points and nine rebounds. Amaan Zavahir also neared a double-double, finishing with 11 points and nine rebounds.

Long Beach was led by Kamron Fontenot’s 14 points. Zakai Hunter contributed 10 points, six rebounds and three blocks off the bench, while Jorge Mota added nine points and seven rebounds. Nathaniel Parris dished out a team-high four assists.

Both teams struggled mightily from beyond the arc, with Long Beach connecting on just 6 of 32 attempts and Cypress making 7 of 32. The Chargers compensated for their shooting woes by committing seven fewer turnovers than the Vikings, 19 to 12, and by dominating the interior through their rebounding advantage.

The game was a departure from the pre-game statistical projections, which heavily favored Cypress. The Chargers’ victory, while not aesthetically pleasing, was built on resilience and a decisive edge in rebounding that ultimately wore down a determined Long Beach squad.