LA VERNE, CA — The University of La Verne women's basketball team's aggressive style of play paid off in big ways Saturday evening as the Leopards took down the visiting Pacific Union Pioneers 85-80 at home.

The Leopards forced the Pioneers into 26 turnovers, turning the extra chances into 35 points. The other big difference in the game was La Verne's effectiveness at getting free throw opportunities. The Leopards got to the line often, scoring 31 of their points from the strip to stay in the game. 

Clarissa Perez led La Verne with 24 points, 11 of them coming in the second half to help erase the Pioneers' 13-point third quarter advantage. The senior added seven assists two steals and a rebound. 

Angie Steel had a big game off the bench. The senior from San Diego continually drove to the basket, forcing the Pioneers to send her to the line. Steel finished with 18 points, including 10 free throws, and added eight boards, two steals, and one assist.

Bailey Kurahashi stayed reliable from beyond the arc. The Leopards' sharpshooter knocked down five three-pointers and finished with 16 points.

Brittany McDaniel had another solid game down low for La Verne picking up eight rebounds. Destinee Garr added five rebounds and guard Jazzlyn Johnson grabbed six boards to go with six points. 

The Pioneers were led by Jasmine Peete's 20 points. The Leopards' aggressive style got Pacific Union into foul trouble early. At one point seven different Pioneers had four fouls. Three of Pacific Union's players fouled out.

Next Game

The Leopards will look for their third straight win Tuesday afternoon against Colorado College. The Leopards host the Tigers in The Tents at 2 p.m.