LA VERNE, Calif. — The University of La Verne men's basketball team fell the UC Santa Cruz Banana Slugs 72-52 Wednesday night in a non-conference match-up at the Sports Science and Athletic Pavilion.

Victor Costa picked up his second double-double of the year, scoring 13 points and grabbing 10 rebounds, both team-highs.

Cole Currie and Jamaal Willis both added seven points.

Dylan McElligott scored six points and grabbed three rebounds in his start. Connor Head grabbed six rebounds and scored five points.

The Leopards had some good looks but couldn't get their shots to fall, shooting 35.2 percent in the game.

Tre Watson led UC Santa Cruz with 22 points.

La Verne falls to 0-17 overall and UC Santa Cruz improves to 14-6.

Next Game: The Leopards return to SCIAC action this Saturday when they head to Eagle Rock to play Occidental College. Tip-off against the Tiger is set for 2 p.m. at Rush Gymnasium.