LOS ANGELES, CA– The University of La Verne men's basketball team battled to a thrilling 76-72 victory over the Caltech Beavers on Wednesday night inside The Tents. 

La Verne opened the game with pace and confidence. After trading early baskets, the Leopards took an 8-7 lead when senior forward Carlos Bedolla knocked down a three off an offensive rebound. The 6'5" veteran set the tone with his physical play, finishing the night with 12 points, four rebounds, a steal, and a block. He trailed only Kason White, who led the Leopards with 14 points and added six rebounds and three assists in another steady performance. Despite strong stretches from La Verne, Caltech closed the half with momentum and edged ahead 38-37 at the break.
The second half quickly turned into a defensive showcase from White, who recorded two of his three total blocks within the opening minutes, helping shift the momentum back toward La Verne. That defensive spark fueled the Leopards' climb. Major Hurley anchored the interior, grabbing a team-high eight rebounds-just one shy of his season high recorded at Linfield. His presence on the glass helped steady La Verne during a tightly contested stretch where both teams traded leads.

As the clock wound down, the Leopards executed when it mattered most. Hurley and White scored on back-to-back possessions to give La Verne a 70-69 advantage entering the final two minutes. From there, the Leopards showed poise. Cody Aquino, who totaled nine points and three steals on the night, stepped to the line in the closing seconds and knocked down two clutch free throws, sealing the 76-72 victory.

La Verne's depth was also key, with James Christian delivering an impressive 16 points off the bench, helping the Leopards keep pace during a fast-moving, physical game.