INDIANOLA, Iowa — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire defeated Simpson College 87-68 at Cowles Fieldhouse during the Bruce Wilson Shootout on Saturday in the championship game. The Blugolds led throughout the game, scoring 48 points in the paint and securing a 38-27 advantage in total rebounds. The Storm connected on 11 three-pointers but were unable to close the gap, trailing by eight at halftime and ultimately falling by 19 points.
Andre Renta and
Xavier Lewis were named to the All-Tournament Team for their performances over the weekend.
The first half commenced with a three-pointer for the Storm, putting the home team ahead. However, UW-Eau Claire quickly gained momentum, with
Xavier Lewis contributing a dunk and a tip-in to secure an early lead.
Andre Renta's scoring efforts, including a layup and a three-pointer, helped extend their advantage to 41-33 with 3:11 remaining. Despite a late push by Simpson, including a fast-break layup and a free throw, the Blugolds finished the half strong with a eight point lead.
Roan Demovsky closed the scoring with a jumper, giving UWEC a 46-38 lead at the end of the first half.
UW-Eau Claire pulled away in the second half with a strong performance, closing out the game 87-68. Simpson opened the half with a 3-pointer, but the Blugolds responded with consistent scoring from the free-throw line, including four points from
Carter Lichtsinn.
Kenji Scales contributed significantly with a series of layups and free throws to widen the lead.
Andre Renta's three-point play at 6:40 and a subsequent dunk by
Xavier Lewis helped maintain the advantage, as UW-Eau Claire outscored the Storm 41-30 in the second half.
Andre Renta led with 23 points, converting 9 of 14 field goal attempts and sinking three 3-pointers.
Carter Lichtsinn recorded a double-double, collecting 10 rebounds and adding eight points.
Xavier Lewis scored 16 points, shooting 7 for 10 from the field and securing eight rebounds.
Roan Demovsky contributed defensively with two steals and added eight points.
The Blugolds hold a 6-0 overall record. The Storm is now 2-5 overall.
In their next game, UW-Eau Claire will travel to face Bethel University on Tuesday, Nov. 25. The matchup is set for 7 p.m. at Robertson Center Gym in St. Paul, Minnesota.
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