By Joe Perrino, Sports Information Assistant

LA VERNE — The La Verne Leopards fell 78-67 to the Chapman Panthers Wed, Jan. 12, in a home SCIAC matchup.

The lead shifted back and forth throughout the first half, as the game remained close through the half-time buzzer, with the Panthers ahead 35-33. However, the second half went mostly Chapman's way. 

Marissa Howell started off the game scorching hot. She opened up her appearance with a quick bucket and a foul — converting the and-one opportunity. The freshman followed with an effortless three-pointer to give the Leos their largest lead of the contest.

Chapman's defense, however, stepped up and defended the Leos — a great three-point shooting team — closely behind the arc. The Leopards, who average 37 three-point attempts per game, only took 12. And while they shot 42% on those opportunities, the volume made it tough for the squad to reach their average 87 points per game.

Monica Garcia Silva led the way for the Leos in multiple stat categories. Garcia Silva posted 18 points on 70% shooting and snagged 10 rebounds. Jazzlyn Johnson followed suit with 14 points. The two Leos were the only La Verne players in double figures.

With the loss, the Leos fall to 9-4 and 2-3 in SCIAC. Chapman improves to 4-7 and 3-2 in SCIAC.

The Leopards next game will be against Whittier College, Saturday, Jan. 15 at 4 p.m.