On a day full of clouds and rain the Whittier Poets gave it their all in a matchup against Chapman University losing a close game 78-70.  The much anticipated game between much improved squads started off quickly in the first half with the Poets shooting 50% from the field knocking down 13-26 shots, while the Panthers shot 63% on 15-24 shooting.  With the Panthers hot shooting the poets were unable to gain an advantage going into the locker room down 42-32 at the half.

The Poets came out a lot stronger in the second half firing on all cylinders.  The defense played aggressively holding Chapman to just 36% from the field, while the offense maintained their consistent play shooting 48% from the field and 85% from the free throw line.  The Poets were led by Seniors Mike Archuletta who tallied 15 points, 6 boards and Marcus Gibson who recorded 11 points and 3 assists.  The Panthers were able to match up with the Poets point for point getting help from Kyle Wood who tallied 28 points and 6 boards, and Griffin Ramme who recorded 22 points and 3 steals.

The Poets outscored the Panthers in the second half, but were unable to capitalize on 18 turnovers allowing for the Panthers to close out the game 78-70. 

The Poets are back on the court tonight against the Gwynedd-Mercy Griffins who are traveling out to the West Coast from Pennsylvania with tip-off at 7:30.