CLAREMONT, Calif. (Jan 28, 2023)- Whittier traveled to Claremont to take on a tough Pomona-Pitzer team in Saturday's SCIAC battle. The Sagehens were too much for the Poets, as they ultimately beat Whittier 115-70.

The Poets were looking to continue their momentum into this game, riding in on a two-game win streak. However, Pomona-Pitzer came out hot from the field, and within the first three minutes, had a 12-3 lead. Whittier mounted multiple comebacks during the first half, but each time was met by a Pomona-Pitzer run of its own. Halfway through the first, the Sagehens had a 28-16 lead. The home team continued to pour it on in the first half with its great shooting, 74% from the field, claiming a 58-39 halftime lead.

Byrant Howing (14 PTS) and Nick Manor-Hall (13 PTS) led the Poets in first-half scoring.

As the second half began, the Sagehens' hot shooting continued. With 10 minutes left in the game, the home team held an 89-56 lead, ultimately prevailing, 115-70. 

Howing and Manor-Hall continued to score in the second half, finishing with 20 and 18 apiece. Blake Lander also joined these two with double-digit points, registering 11. The Poets only lost the turnover battle by one, but Pomona-Pitzer was able to capitalize off of turnovers, while Whittier was not. 

The Poets' next game will be next Saturday at home against CMS. This game is scheduled to take place at 4 p.m., tipping off 30 minutes following the women's game that begins at 2 p.m.

Photo: Tony Leon/ActionWestPhotography.com

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