SALEM, OR - The University of La Verne men's basketball team opened its 2025-26 season with a battle that had all the drama of mid-season form, falling 109-98 in overtime to Willamette on Friday night. And for nearly 40 minutes, the night belonged to the Leopards.

La Verne came out fearless on the road, pushing the pace and shooting with confidence from the jump. The Leopards were crisp, connected, and aggressive - stringing together stops and turning rebounds into fast-break chances. A barrage of threes and strong interior finishes built momentum, and by halftime La Verne held a 53-38 lead after shooting just over 60% in the opening period.

The Leopards kept control deep into the second half, maintaining a lead that stretched as high as 19. Higgy Katoa set the tone early with rhythm jumpers and transition attacks on his way to 17 points, while Kason White matched him with 17 of his own, including timely buckets that steadied the offense. Major Hurley was steady and physical inside with 16 points and 6 rebounds, while James Christian came off the bench and made a major impact, scoring 18 points and living at the rim.

But as the game tightened, Willamette chipped away - turning turnovers into points and shooting efficiently from the foul line. With La Verne up late, the Bearcats made a final push to tie the game, sending the season opener into overtime.

The Leopards didn't fold. With seconds remaining in regulation, Francisco Muhammad calmly rose and hit a clean mid-range jumper to tie the game at 89-89, capping one of the game's most composed sequences and pushing La Verne into the extra period on the road.

In overtime, Willamette found the momentum, using defensive pressure and free throws to create separation the Leopards couldn't overcome.

Despite the final score, La Verne showed depth, poise, and balance - with five players in double figures and 37 bench points reflecting a group that looks ready to compete every night. The lead, the pace, the response to pressure - this game felt less like a season opener and more like a statement of who this team intends to be.

Up Next 

The Leopards will return to action on Sunday, November 9 at 3:00 PM against George Fox University.