LA VERNE, CA — The University of La Verne men's water polo team ended with a bang. The Leopards scored three goals in overtime and pulled together a 16-15 win over Occidental to finish the season on an exciting high note.

Heading into extra time tied 13-13, David Gutierrez put the Leopards ahead but the Tigers quickly responded and evened the score. The Tigers briefly took the lead with a minute left in the first overtime period but then Alam Chang-Barnuevo took over. The senior in his final game tied the score with 38 seconds remaining in the first overtime and threw in the lone goal in the second overtime period to give the Leopards the win.

Chang Barnuevo led the Leopards with a season-high seven goals, drew two exclusions, and added a steal. Fellow senior Peter Trinh had an outstanding conclusion to his career. He scored three goals, dished three assists, and had three blocks. Gutierrez finished with three goals on just five shots and drew five exclusions.

Eric Bates led the Leopards in the cage. He finished with 12 saves and two steals to give La Verne a chance late.

Jordan Baker added two goals, three assists, two steals, and one drawn exclusion. Nicolo Buono tallied one goal, assist, steal, drawn exclusion, and two blocks. Sawyer Nering added three assists, two blocks, two drawn exclusions, and a steal.

The Leopards finished the 2024 season 8-20 overall and seventh place in the SCIAC with a 3-9 conference record.

La Verne celebrated seniors Trinh, Bates, Chang-Barnuevo, Nering, Gutierrez, and Steven Rios in a pregame ceremony.