LA VERNE, Calif. (Feb. 21, 2023)- The Poets traveled to La Verne in their final game of the season to take on the Leopards. They would have a great end to their year as they were able to secure the 87-70 point victory. 

Whittier got off to a great start this game. About halfway through the first the Poets had already extended their lead to 25-16. The men continued to roll in the first as they were getting their shots to fall and playing great defense simultaneously. They went into the half with a 52-27 lead. 

Bryant Howing, in his final game for the Poets, continued to impress as he stuffed the stat sheet in the first half. Howing had 11 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and a steal. While freshman Blake Lander kept his hot streak alive with 12 points, 4 rebounds, an assist, and a steal. Although the Poets did not shoot it well from behind the arc, 51% from the field and 6 steals guided them to a large halftime lead. 

The second half began and the Poets continued to put the pressure on the Leopards. La Verne was able to make a slight comeback and pull within 14 points of Whittier, but Nick Manor-Hall was able to guide the Poets to the victory. Whittier would walk out with an 87-70 point win over La Verne. 

Whittier had a great overall game tonight, having four men score in double-digits. Howing lead the way with 20 points, 5 assists, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals. Lander finished with 15 points and 7 rebounds, while Manor-Hall contributed 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 steals. Senior, Jude Agbasi, continued to guide the second unit off the bench and poured in 10 points, 4 assists, 5 rebounds, and a steal.

It was a great way to end the season with a win for the Poets, and to see many of the men playing well. To our seniors, thank you for your time and effort! We would like to thank you all for following our team throughout the season and we look forward to seeing you next year!

Photo: Tony Leon/ActionWestPhotography.com

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