LA VERNE, CA — The University of La Verne Men's Basketball team battled through an intense SCIAC matchup against Occidental, pushing the game into overtime before ultimately falling 89-87 in a heartbreaker at the Sports Science and Athletic Pavilion.

The Leopards led for most of the game, carrying a 37-32 advantage into halftime and maintaining their edge throughout the second half. However, Occidental rallied late to force overtime, where they capitalized on key opportunities to escape with the narrow win.

Graduate student Paul Antonis delivered another dominant performance, recording a double-double with 30 points and 14 rebounds while shooting 12-for-16 from the free-throw line. Logen Howard added 17 points and two rebounds, while Cody Aquino contributed 15 points, knocking down two three-pointers. Karl Ashley came off the bench to provide a valuable spark with 10 points and five rebounds.

Despite La Verne's strong effort, free throws proved to be a deciding factor. The Leopards shot just 16-of-28 (57.1%) from the charity stripe, missing crucial opportunities down the stretch. Occidental, in contrast, converted 28-of-36 (77.8%) of their free throws, which played a key role in their ability to stay in the game and ultimately claim the victory. 

The Tigers also dominated the battle on the boards, out-rebounding the Leopards 59-39. Second-chance opportunities proved to be a difference-maker, allowing Occidental to extend possessions and control the tempo late in the game.

In overtime, the Leopards fought hard, with Aquino knocking down a clutch three-pointer to put La Verne ahead 77-74 early in the period. Antonis later tied the game at 87-87 with another three in the final seconds. However, Occidental's Alex McCleery Brown grabbed an offensive rebound off a missed shot and made the game-winning layup as time expired, sealing the Leopards' fate.

The Leopards (7-16, 2-12 SCIAC) will look to bounce back in their next game on Saturday, February 22, when they host Pomona-Pitzer Colleges on their Senior Day at 4 PM in the Tents.