By Cyanna Rosa

La Verne, CA- In their fourth conference game of the season, the University of La Verne women's basketball team ended the year hosting the University of Redlands Bulldogs at the Tents this Saturday afternoon. Seeking to maintain their undefeated conference status, the Leopards started off strong to threaten their conference rivals. 

In the first quarter, Leopard starter Dawson Bell changed the game up with a slow first three minutes. The game didn't truly start until Bell made three back to back jump shots for the Leopards and junior Chiara Brown got things going as well. A beautiful first quarter for these two ladies with Brown splashing six baskets in a row and ending the quarter 20-13. 

The Bulldogs were more aggressive in the second quarter, which offered the Leopards an exhilarating challenge. The Bulldogs tied up the game twice in the quarter, but the Leopards maintained their lead into halftime with scores from Kendall Stanley, Dejanee Gill, and Dawson Bell, 28-22.

Keeping it a tight race in the third quarter, Dejanee Gill steped up in the second half to offer some points for the Leopards. The Leopards saw the first three-pointer of the game by Marissa Howell in the third quarter, giving the Leopards a 43-39 lead going into the fourth and final quarter. 

The fourth quarter sealed the deal with the Leopards continuing their offensive game and finalizing the win. Chiara Brown carried her own with 16 points. Sophomore Dawson Bell dominated the offensive side of the court with her 20 points on the scoreboard, 10 rebounds, 5 steals and 2 assists.

The Leopards will face their fifth conference game to ring in the New Year at Claremont-M-S on January 4th at 7:00 PM PST.