LA VERNE, CA - The University of La Verne Men's basketball team dropped a SCIAC matchup against the Cal Lutheran Kingsmen on Wednesday night by a final of 86-69.

Higgy Katoa and Cody Aquino led the Leopards in scoring, each recording 12 points. Aquino also had a solid night on the defensive end recording two blocks. James Christian had the best overall performance. The junior guard recorded five points, four rebounds, three assists, and five steals in his 22 minutes of action off the bench.

The Leopards offense started slow in the first half, only scoring two points in the first seven minutes. However, the Leos went on a 19-9 scoring run to get themselves back in the ball game, and at halftime the deficit was down to single digits. Despite some momentum heading into the locker room, La Verne was unable to keep up with the Kingsmen attack, as Cal Lutheran pulled away.

Up next the Leopards will stay in the Tents for a conference matchup against Whittier College on Saturday, January 10th at 2 p.m.