IRVINE- The University of La Verne women's basketball squad endured a 90-53 setback visiting Division I UC-Irvine Thursday evening. 

The Leopards (7-4) found themselves in an early hole after hitting only 26.9 percent of their shots in the first half and the Anteaters (7-7) held a 41-42 advantage at halftime. Despite a growing deficit the Leos found a more efficient second-half rhythm, putting up 32 points, including 4-of-9 from behind the arc.

Sophomore point guard Shannon Irwin led the offense with 13 points off 5-of-7 shooting while freshman center Brynn Dahmer contributed 10 points and six rebounds. Sophomore center Emily Myers grabbed nine boards while junior point guards Riki Murakami and Tiffany Hicks each dished out in three assists. La Verne shot 32.7 percent (18-55) from the field but were outrebounded 46-to-55. The Leo bench chipped in 21 points. 

The Leopards are slated to return to action Saturday in a SCIAC matchup with Caltech. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Franz Athletic Court.