LA VERNE, CA - The University of La Verne men's basketball team delivered its most complete performance of the young season on Tuesday night, surging past Linfield 80–67 inside the Sports Science & Athletic Pavilion. And while the game opened tight and tense, the second half belonged entirely to the Leopards. 

La Verne started the night with flashes of rhythm—attacking the paint, moving the ball, and generating clean looks—but the opening 20 minutes became a grind. Neither team could create separation, trading buckets and defensive stops until Linfield entered the break with a narrow 30-29 edge.

Everything changed after halftime.

The Leopards erupted with pace, purpose, and some of their sharpest execution of the season. They shot a stunning 71% from the field in the second half, turning defense into runway-wide transition chances and suddenly dictating every aspect of the game. Ball movement was crisp, spacing opened, and La Verne pushed the lead behind timely runs that electrified the home crowd.

Kason White was efficient and relentless, scoring 17 points on 8-for-10 shooting while finishing through contact and anchoring the defense. Higgy Katoa added 15 points and four assists, blending scoring and playmaking to keep the offense composed as the lead grew.

But the bench, 38 points strong, was the difference-maker. James Christian provided power and poise with 13 points and key defensive sequences. Carlos Bedolla matched him with 13 of his own, offering bursts of scoring that helped La Verne stretch the game open.

By the midpoint of the second half, La Verne had command. The Leopards controlled rebounds, forced turnovers, and punished Linfield in the paint, finishing with 44 points inside and establishing an identity rooted in toughness and tempo. Every run Linfield attempted met a composed response.

And when the final minutes arrived, the Leopards closed with confidence, sealing their second win of the season and showcasing the depth and balance that continue to emerge within this group.

Up Next

La Verne returns to action Wednesday, December 3 at 7:00 PM on the road as they open up conference play against Claremont-Mudd-Scripps.