Off to a 5-0 start, the Pomona-Pitzer Sagehens undertook two of their greatest challenges this week, testing that unblemished SCIAC record. They handily defeated Cal Lutheran and, in an intense and electric atmosphere, lost to their cross-campus rival, CMS, 62-58.

The Hens’ relentless defense and patient, high-percentage offense has proven too much for their seemingly undermanned opponents this year. Winning their first six games by an average margin of over 16 points per game, the Sagehens lost a disappointing match against the Stags on Wednsday night.

The second game against CMS promises to be another challenge, but at home it will prove to be a far different scene. The Hens’ dependence on three pointers and good outside shooting was the most detrimental aspect of their game at Ducey due to the crowd noise and heckling. At times the Sagehens looked nervous and lacked their normal composure. The reverse will be the case when the Stags visit the Rains Center.

The Hens’ slash and pass offense combined with high percentage three-point shooting from three of their five starters was enough to run over their SCIAC opponents — until they walked into Ducey gymnasium.

The Stags stifled Pomona-Pitzer’s attack with energetic defense and a rowdy crowd behind them. The Hens stayed in the game throughout the first half and well into the second period, but shoddy free throw shooting down the stretch kept them from tying up the game in the late minutes.

Among other things, the Stags did an excellent job of shutting down Martin, who was averaging 23 points per game coming into Wednesday night. He finished the game well under that impressive average.Against Cal Lutheran the Sagehens looked smaller and less athletic during warm-ups. As soon as the game got underway, however, their strategy was obviously dominant. With 21 points, Jeremiah Martin ’01 was the team’s catalyst.

Tad DeWald ’01 added 16 points, 13 of which came on three-for-three shooting from behind the arc and two spectacular break-away dunks, and kept the momentum in the Hens’ favor whenever Cal Lu looked to rally. Large contributions were also made by Travis Bray ’01, with 11 points and 6 rebounds, and senior leader Jeff Herzog ’00, who has averaged the most minutes on the team.

After the Cal Lu victory Martin was confident, but wary, about the Sagehens’ chances this season. He said, "All of the teams in the conference are really strong this season. We’ve been winning, but nothing’s come too easily [minus Cal Tech]. I also don’t anticipate things getting any easier." Evidently things will not get any easier.