CLAREMONT- The University of La Verne men's basketball squad took a 78-59 loss to Pomona-Pitzer Saturday night. 

The Leopards (6-10, 3-5 SCIAC) fell behind early, surrendering an 18-3 run in just under seven minutes to start the game. But after breaking for a timeout, the La Verne offense came alive, scoring 15 unanswered to bring the score level. The Sagehens (12-5, 7-1 SCIAC) retook a double-digit lead late in the period, but a pair of three-pointers from sophomore forward Nicholas Lewis kept the Leos within three points at the break, 36-33.

But an offensive surge from Pomona-Pitzer in the second half curtailed any chance of a Leopard comeback. The Sagehens shot an even 50 percent from the field in the final period, including 4-of-5 from long range, to secure the SCIAC victory. 

Freshman forward/center Evan Roberts scored 17 points in 21 minutes of play off the bench to lead the La Verne offense. Freshman guard/forward Kendall McClain had 12 points, while sophomore guard Weston Newell and freshman guard Hakim Arnold had seven rebounds apiece. Senior guard Ronn See dished out six assists on the night.

The Leos connected on 22-of-59 shots, including 9-of-21 from long range. La Verne was deadly from downtown in the first period, draining 6-of-9 attempts. Meanwhile, the Sagehens narrowly won the rebounds line (39-33) and turnover battle (18-17). 

The Leopards will travel to Pasadena Wednesday to take on Caltech. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.