By Nate Rodriguez, Sports Information Intern

LA VERNE — The Leos have built momentum and confidence on their season's second winning streak to close out the calendar year, picking up their fifth consecutive victory on the hardwood against the LIFE Pacific Warriors, 84-48. 

The Leopards defeated the Warriors for the second time in as many weeks, managing to score more points than their previous contest (81) with new contributors emerging.

A trio of Leopards led the way scoring 12 points apiece, headlined by senior guard Monica Garcia who collected her first double-double of the season in just her second appearance. Garcia nabbed eleven rebounds and dished four assists, setting good pace for the offense when she stepped on the court. Junior guard Natalie Maldonado impressed with her dozen, almost reaching a double-double performance of her own coming away with nine rebounds. Alyssa Ono, the hometown senior for the Leos, led all the starters in scoring.

The bench exploded for 55 points as a unit, with first-year guard Marissa Howell reaching double-digit points totals with 10. Close to 70 La Verne rebounds helped dominate, converting 36 offensive boards into 21 second chance points which helped separate the score. Despite warranting foul trouble late, the Leopards played clean basketball only allowing nine turnovers compared to the Warriors' 30. 

La Verne will head into the latter half of the season facing conference opponents in January, with one non-conference game remaining on the schedule. The Leos will be back in action on Jan. 5 when they travel to California Lutheran University to square off against the Regals.