WHITTIER, Calif. (Nov. 7, 2025) – The Whittier College women's basketball team opened the 2025–26 season with a fresh identity and an impressive result Friday night at Dave Jacobs Court. With only two returning players seeing action, sophomore forward Kennedy Perkins (Tehachapi, Calif. / Tehachapi) and junior guard Yaneli Rosales Beltran (San Diego, Calif. / Mount Miguel), the Poets leaned heavily on a retooled roster as eight players made their Whittier debuts in a 59–47 win over Pacific Lutheran.

Whittier's defense set the early tone, holding the Lutes to six first-quarter points before the Poets found their offensive rhythm. Perkins anchored the effort on both ends, finishing with a game-high 19 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 steals while shooting 6-for-19 from the field and 6-for-8 at the line. Junior transfer and Whittier native, Xochitl Hood (Whittier, Calif. / Troy / Fullerton College), added 10 points and 5 rebounds in a strong debut, while newcomer KK Guy (Morro Bay, Calif. / Mission College Preparatory Catholic) provided an offensive spark with 11 points off the bench.

Rosales Beltran contributed 3 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists in 31 steady minutes, offering continuity in a rotation otherwise dominated by new faces. Senior guard Brooklyn Giles (Fairfield, Calif. / Early College High School / Napa Valley College / Cal State Los Angeles) controlled the glass with a game-high 15 rebounds and 5 assists, showcasing poise and experience in her Whittier debut.

Whittier's balance and increased efficiency carried into the second half, where the Poets outscored Pacific Lutheran 34–25 behind consistent defensive pressure and a composed offensive approach that closed out the win.

Head Coach Kristen Dowling and the Poets move to 1-0 overall and return to Dave Jacobs Court next Friday, November 14, at 7 p.m. to host the UC Santa Cruz Banana Slugs.
 

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