Boxscore

In the first-ever conference clash between longtime rivals, the University of La Verne emerged triumphant in a 91-79 win over Chapman University in SCIAC women's basketball action Saturday at Frantz Athletic Court.

With the win, the Leopards remained unbeaten in conference play and sit atop the SCIAC standings at 4-0 as they also improve to 7-5 overall.  The Leos also snapped a five-game losing streak to Chapman, earning their first win over the Panthers since a 75-65 triumph back on November 15, 2009.

The Leopards used their deep bench to help withstand Chapman's pressure defense attack as a total of eight players scored at least six points in the win.  Additionally, the Leos controlled the boards by pulling down 52 rebounds compared to 37 for the Panthers.

La Verne led 22-19 before racing out to a double-digit lead over the Panthers late in the first half.  The Leopards went on a 12-2 run capped by a three-pointer from Lindsey Foster to extend the Leopard advantage to 34-21 with 8:28 remaining before intermission.  La Verne would take a 49-37 lead at the break.

In the second half, the Leos continued their attack and maintained a comfortable margin through much of the frame.  A layup and a pair of free throws from Amanda Copas extended the La Verne margin to 66-49 at the 12:23 mark. 

From that point, La Verne would not relinquish its double-digit lead on the Panthers and led by as many as 18 points at 89-71 late in the contest. 

The Leos overcame 42 turnovers but countered by receiving 37 points from their bench.  La Verne finished 31-65 (47.7%) from the field and 22-28 (78.6%) from the free throw line.

Lindsey Foster led the Leopard scoring attack with 20 points while Amanda Copas and Megan Musashi also reached double figures with 14 and 11 points, respectively.  Shannon Irwin and Kimmie Fung contributed 9 points each.  Musashi pulled down a team-best eight rebounds followed by Kayla Cribbs with seven.

Chapman (11-3, 3-2 SCIAC) was led by Kimi Takaoka who posted a game-high 28 points while Sandra Gao added 17.

La Verne continues conference action as it plays host to Redlands on Thursday night in a 7:30 pm tip at Frantz Athletic Court.