'GET US NOW'

By Brandon Petersen

With only five active players available, Westcliff Women's Basketball went toe-to-toe with La Verne for four quarters before running out of gas in a 62–55 loss Friday night in La Verne.

Despite missing several key contributors, the Warriors fought through fatigue and foul trouble to stay within striking distance until the final minute.

Valeria Brewer led the way with 29 points, while Natalie Derla chipped in 18.

Head Coach Andre Wallace said his team's resilience defined the night.

"Playing with just five players can either fuel our future or drain us," Wallace said. "Our current reality is that we're short-handed and unable to fully execute the systems and strategies we've invested in for months. When fatigue sets in, the mind and body can disconnect — but through it all, our ladies have been extraordinary, and I couldn't be prouder of them."

After falling behind early, the Warriors clawed back behind composed half-court execution and steady guard play to cut the deficit to two entering the fourth. La Verne's late surge proved the difference, but Wallace said he saw growth in every possession.

"You achieve what you emphasize," he said. "We focus on principles, preparation, and study. Right now we're reconnecting in those areas so we can perform at the level we know we're capable of. Defensively, it took us three quarters to settle in, but once we did, our coverage and rotations stabilized no matter the conditions."

Wallace praised the group's spirit in the face of adversity.

"Five women took the floor courageously, competed for 40 minutes, and nearly pulled out a victory — without a single excuse or ounce of quit," he said. "They didn't give up on themselves or each other. They know how much I care for them, and I hate that they've had to compete under these circumstances."

He closed with a message that spoke volumes about the team's mindset moving forward:

"You better get us now," Wallace said. "Because it's going to be tough to get us later."

Westcliff (0-2) returns to action Thursday at Benedictine Mesa.