Orange, CA - The University of La Verne women's basketball team took on Chapman University for an away match-up this afternoon.
The Leopards looked to sweep the Panthers and keep their top spot in SCIAC play. Both teams battled in the first quarter, keeping the score close until the Leopards made a run before the half. Chapman would start the second half strong and bring the game back within single digits. The Leopards had multiple players make big plays in the fourth; however, La Verne's defense was the highlight of the afternoon. The Leopards continue with their undefeated conference record beating the Panthers 78-64. Junior Chiara Brown has been a powerful force inside all season and finished with 25 points and six rebounds. Dawson Bell had 17 points and four rebounds. The Leopards supporting cast was fundamental in tonight's win totaling 20 points.
Head coach Jason Pruitt was pleased with his team's performance on the road. "We are just thankful that we get to play the game that we all love so much. God has given us all the talent and the platform to showcase our skill set, we should just use every moment we get to give thanks. Tonight Brianna and Valentina did just that. They were huge for us in the win tonight. You do not know when your number will be called, you just have to be ready. They come from winning juco programs and they have the get it done mentality. They have been in the gym putting in the extra work and it is now showing. Just stay the course and good things will happen. Too many times we run from hard situations instead of embracing the struggle. Any road win is a good win. Especially when you are trying to sweep a season series with an opponent. Chapman is always a hard team to play. They play pressure defense and they like to get out and run. It's always a good match-up to see where we are at as a program. Tonight in the second half we were just able to do what Chapman said we would do in the game notes. Play a fast-paced style of offense and full-court press. We are just happy we were able to provide the chaos and lots of buckets to get us the win!"
The University of La Verne will travel to Cal Lutheran University in their next match-up Wednesday, February 8th, at 7 PM.
