La Verne, Calif. -  The Crown College women's basketball team opened its California trip on Tuesday afternoon with a hard-fought nonconference matchup at the University of La Verne. The Polars stayed within striking distance all afternoon before falling 47–43 at the Sports Science Athletic Pavilion.

The opening quarter was marked by defensive intensity from both teams, as neither side was able to create much separation early. Crown forced multiple turnovers and capitalized in transition to keep pace, with the score tied late before La Verne took a slim 10–8 edge after one.

La Verne used a brief scoring run midway through the second quarter to stretch its lead, but the Polars responded by attacking the paint and getting to the free throw line. Crown closed the half with strong defensive possessions, heading into the break down 25–19.

The Polars came out of halftime with renewed energy, cutting into the deficit behind tough rebounding efforts and disciplined defense. Crown continued to pressure La Verne ball handlers and forced key turnovers, but the Leopards were able to maintain a narrow advantage heading into the fourth.

Crown made its push in the final period, outscoring La Verne 16–13 and trimming the deficit to just three points with under two minutes remaining. The Polars had multiple late possessions to tie the game, but La Verne was able to close out the contest at the free throw line, securing the 47–43 result.

Brayli Reimer led Crown with 18 points while adding a team-high three steals, consistently creating opportunities in transition. Morgan Bednarek added 15 points and 11 rebounds, recording a double-double in the effort. Defensively, Crown finished with 11 steals and held the advantage in fast break points, 6–4.

The Polars continue their California trip on Wednesday, December 31, when they take on Chapman University in the second game of the two-game swing.