LA VERNE, CA– The University of La Verne women's basketball team secured their second win of the season against the visiting Nelson University Warriors. The Warriors traveled from Arizona in hopes of a victory, but the Leopards came out on top with a 77-44 win. 

The Leopards shined defensively forcing 33 turnovers, the most in a single game since 2021 squad recorded 35 and 40 in games against Bethesda.

Alyssa Smith shone bright as the star of the Leopards offense and defense on Saturday. She set a season-high 13 rebounds and notched her third double-double of the season with 18 points. Her defensive prowess allowed for the Leopards to pull ahead in the first quarter, up 19-12. Smith added six steals and five assists.

In the second quarter, the turnovers dominated play. The Leopards capitalized on stolen balls from Jayda Felix and Jasmine Prajitno to maintain the lead. But it was Smith's indisputable talent at the free throw line that  sealed the deal. She was 10 for 11 on the day from the line, and the team shot 67% from the stripe. 

The Leos entered the third quarter with a 33-19 lead and gave up just seven points in the period. The Leos would not let the Warriors keep possession totaling nine steals in the quarter. Lailah Leonard-Roberts was a headache for the Warriors, finishing with four total.

Kaylee Shimoda and Isabella Gray-Musolff trailed right behind her with 10 points apiece.

The Leopards are back in action on Wednesday, December 3rd at 7 p.m. in their first SCIAC matchup against Claremont-Mudd-Scripps at home.