OCEANSIDE, Calif. (Interstat) — Angel Ochoa scored 26 points and the Palomar Comets survived a furious second-half rally by MiraCosta to defeat the Spartans 74-66 in a California Community College Athletic Association men’s basketball game Wednesday night.

Palomar built a commanding 15-point halftime lead but had to withstand a relentless second-half push from the Spartans, who cut the deficit to a single possession before the Comets closed the game on a decisive run.

The Comets improved to 17-8 overall, while MiraCosta fell to 9-15.

The most critical sequence of the game occurred late in the second quarter as MiraCosta threatened to complete a stunning comeback. After trailing 39-24 at halftime, the Spartans outscored Palomar 42-35 in the second half, fueled by Logan Mason’s 21 points and 12 rebounds. A layup by Makai Caruth with 28 seconds remaining brought MiraCosta within two points at 64-66, capping a 22-8 run that electrified the home crowd.

Palomar, which had seen its large lead evaporate under a barrage of Spartan baskets and its own offensive struggles, responded under pressure. On the ensuing possession, Drew Pierce missed a 3-pointer, but MiraCosta’s Caruth was fouled after securing the defensive rebound. He made both free throws to tie the game at 66 with 55 seconds left, setting the stage for the final minute.

The Comets’ top star, Ochoa, then took over. He drove into the lane and hit a tough jump shot with 46 seconds remaining to put Palomar back ahead 68-66. On MiraCosta’s next trip, Dub Williams missed a 3-pointer, and Palomar’ Braylon Hollins secured the crucial defensive rebound. Ochoa was fouled and sank both free throws to extend the lead to four with 18 seconds left.

A steal by Palomar’s Jaidyn Norman on MiraCosta’s inbound pass effectively sealed the victory, leading to two more free throws from Justin White for the final margin.

The game was defined by contrasting halves. Palomar dominated the first quarter, shooting aggressively to build a 39-24 lead. Ochoa was instrumental, scoring 15 of his points before halftime, including three 3-pointers. The Comets’ defense forced 10 first-half turnovers.

MiraCosta flipped the script after the break, tightening its defense and finding rhythm offensively. The Spartans held Palomar to 35% shooting in the second half while attacking the basket to draw fouls, attempting 30 free throws in the game to Palomar’s 19. Mason and Caruth, who finished with 12 points and seven rebounds, led the charge.

Despite the comeback, MiraCosta’s cold shooting from deep proved costly. The Spartans made just 5 of 29 3-point attempts (17.2%), while Palomar connected on 11 of 35. The Comets also won the rebounding battle 46-42 and committed two fewer turnovers.

Justin White supported Ochoa with 18 points for Palomar. Mason’s double-double led MiraCosta, with Caruth and Dub Williams, who scored seven points, providing key minutes.

Palomar next hosts San Diego City on Friday. MiraCosta travels to face San Diego Miramar, also on Friday.