EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire defeated St. Norbert College 80-66 at the Sonnentag Event Center on Friday night. UW.-Eau Claire controlled the game with a consistent offensive performance, scoring 40 points in each half. The team capitalized on 19 free throws and maintained a strong presence in the paint with 36 points. The Green Knights managed to keep pace in rebounds, but the Blugolds' 12 fast-break points contributed to the decisive victory. Eau Claire native,
Will Boser led the Blugolds with 21 points as he went perfect from the field, including five 3-pointers.
Eau Claire opened the game with a quick 7-0 run, including a 3-pointer and assist from
Kenji Scales. St. Norbert responded with a layup, but
Xavier Lewis and
Carter Lichtsinn helped the Blugolds maintain the lead with consecutive baskets.
Will Boser extended the lead for the home team to 28-13 with two 3-pointers in quick succession. Despite a late effort by the Green Knights, including a layup and free throws, UW-Eau Claire closed the first half with a 40-30 advantage, capped off by a fast-break layup from Lichtsinn.
UWEC maintained their lead throughout the second half, highlighted by Lichtsinn's early layup to set the tone. The Green Knights kept the contest tight with Ryan Cox's 3-pointer at 19:18 that narrowed the gap to 42-33. However, the Blugolds' Boser responded with a 3-pointer at 17:15, extending their lead to 46-35. The home team continued to capitalize on free throws, with
Andre Renta securing the final points of the game, ensuring a 80-66 victory. UWEC outscored the Green Knights 40-36 in the second half to seal the win.
Boser scored 21 points on a perfect 8-for-8 shooting performance, including five 3-pointers. Lichtsinn added 17 points, making six field goals and recording four steals. Renta contributed with 13 points, converting 9 of 10 free throws and dishing out five assists.
With the victory, UW-Eau Claire improved to 1-0 overall. St. Norbert began the season with a 0-1 record.
In their next game, the Blugolds will travel to face Carleton College on Sunday, Nov. 9. The matchup is set for 2 p.m. at West Gym in Northfield, Minnesota.
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