WHITTIER, Calif. (Jan. 31, 2025) – Behind a historic defensive performance from Tochi Onyeador (Amuri, Nigeria / MEC / Los Medanos College), the Whittier College men's basketball team earned a 73–65 SCIAC home win over La Verne on Saturday afternoon at Dave Jacobs Court. Onyeador set a new Whittier single-game record with eight blocks, anchoring a dominant defensive effort and helping the Poets control the game on their home floor.
Onyeador's impact was felt throughout the afternoon, as the first-year Poet altered shots, protected the rim, and controlled the glass. In addition to his record-setting eight blocks, the junior finished with 15 rebounds, six points, three assists, and multiple steals, turning in one of the most complete defensive performances in program history.
Whittier controlled the tempo early, building a 42–33 halftime lead behind efficient offense and strong interior play. The Poets continued to apply pressure defensively in the second half, limiting La Verne's scoring opportunities and closing out the win with composure at the free-throw line.
Jonathan Duley (Rocklin, Calif. / Del Oro / Cuyamaca College) led the scoring effort with 19 points, while Brandon Andrews (Houston, Texas / Clear Brook / Palomar College) added 15 points and facilitated the offense throughout the game. Chinecherem Nwanevu (Eastvale, Calif. / Norco / San Bernardino Valley College) continued his strong stretch of play, scoring in double figures for the third consecutive game and doing so in his third straight start.
It was a full team contribution in the win, as Whittier defended collectively, shared the ball effectively, and made timely plays on both ends of the floor to secure the conference victory.
Whittier improves to 13–7 overall and 6–5 in SCIAC play. Head Coach Mark Jensen and the Poets will head back on the road Wednesday, February 4, traveling to Orange, Calif. for a pivotal conference matchup against Chapman at 7 p.m.
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