WHITTIER, Calif. (Jan. 17, 2025) – The Whittier College women's basketball team faced a tough challenge Saturday afternoon, falling 69–46 to the RV Redlands Bulldogs in SCIAC action at Dave Jacobs Court.

Whittier opened the afternoon with strong defensive energy, trading stops early and keeping the game within reach through the first half. The Poets showed composure on both ends of the floor, generating quality looks and competing on the glass while staying disciplined defensively.

Kennedy Perkins (Tehachapi, Calif. / Tehachapi) continued her consistent stretch of play, leading Whittier with 15 points while adding seven rebounds and a career-high four assists. Perkins has now reached double figures in four of her last five games, providing steady production and leadership in the heart of the lineup.

Shushan Krikorian (McLean, Va. / McLean / Glendale College) delivered the most efficient shooting performance of her collegiate career, finishing 6-for-8 from the field for 12 points. Her shot selection and offensive poise helped stabilize the Poets offensively, particularly during key stretches of the game.

The Poets also received encouraging contributions from the younger pieces in the rotation. Lanakila Nitta (Honolulu, Hawaii / Kamehameha) logged her second scoring game of the season while setting a new career high with four rebounds, continuing her steady development on both ends of the floor. Whittier's bench added energy, defensive pressure, and physicality, helping fuel multiple stops and second-chance opportunities.

Whittier remained engaged defensively throughout all four quarters, showing toughness, effort, and continued growth in conference play.

Whittier moves forward at 7–8 overall and 2–5 in SCIAC play, and will look to build on the defensive foundation when Head Coach Kristen Dowling and the Poets travel to Los Angeles to face Occidental on Monday, January 19 at 4 p.m.

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