LA VERNE, CA — Freshman Jazzlyn Johnson led the Leopards with 14 points but the University of La Verne women's basketball team couldn't overcome a slow first half, dropping their SCIAC opener to Whittier College 66-41 Wednesday night.

Johnson added six rebounds, three steals, and an assist in the effort. Destinee Garr led La Verne with eight rebounds. Mary Dishoian and Jada Aldana each added five boards.

Whittier was led by Cali Cubel's 21 points and Laura Stroud's eight rebounds. 

The Leopards, who had been shooting well from beyond the arc, struggled Wednesday night from three-point range, going just 1-25 from distance. Turnovers also hurt La Verne, the Leopards coughed the ball up 23 times in the game.

Next Game: La Verne will look to bounce back Saturday afternoon when they travel the Redlands to face the Bulldogs at 2 p.m.