LA VERNE, CA — Alyssa Smith put together an all-around solid performance but the University of La Verne Women's basketball team fell on Saturday evening to Whittier College by a final of 59-51.

Alyssa Smith had another strong game finishing with 17 points, five rebounds, and five assists. She made her presence felt on the defensive end as well with a block and a steal. Samantha Miller also stepped up recording season highs in points, rebounds, and assists. The junior guard scored 10 times, collected eight boards, and dished out two assists.

The Leopards started the game off strong in the first quarter thanks to three pointers from Kaylee Shimoda, Zaria Gomez, and\ Smith. After the buzzer, the Leopards headed into the second quarter with a nine point lead. The next period saw more strong shooting with La Verne making three deep threes, and taking a six point lead into halftime. 

A 13-4 run to start the third quarter helped the Poets get back into the game, and both sides headed into the last period with 45 points. The last three minutes would prove to be the difference maker. Whittier outscored La Verne seven to zero and would go on to close out the win. 

A big difference in this contest was the battle in the key. While the Leopards got a lot of their scoring from mid range and three pointers, the Poets were able to outscore La Verne 30-16 in points in the paint.

Up next the Leopards will stay home to take on the University of Redlands on Wednesday, January 14th at 7 p.m. in the Tents.