EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's basketball team bounced back on Saturday as they defeated UW-La Crosse with a final score of 77-74 at the Sonnentag Event Center. The home team capitalized on a strong first half, leading 44-32 at the break, and held off a late surge from the Eagles, who outscored the Blugolds 42-33 in the second half. UWEC connected on 14 three-pointers, which proved crucial in maintaining their edge in this competitive conference matchup. The Blugolds' 14 three's were a season high and ties a facility record at The Sonnentag.
The Blugolds took control early in the first half with a quick 8-2 lead, fueled by a 3-pointer from
Andre Renta at 18:30. Despite the Eagles' efforts to close the gap, including a fast-break layup at 14:29, the Blugolds maintained their lead. The home team extended their advantage with a 3-pointer from
Kenji Scales at 5:01, pushing the score to 33-21. Renta capped off the half with a layup at the 0:03 mark, securing a 44-32 lead for the Blugolds at halftime.
In a tightly contested second half, UWEC managed to maintain their edge over the Eagles, securing a 77-74 victory. The Blugolds'
Carter Lichtsinn contributed significantly with key layups, while
Andre Renta's three-point shooting helped maintain the lead. The Eagles kept the game close with consistent scoring in the paint and from the free-throw line. With seconds remaining,
Kenji Scales sealed the win for UWEC by converting crucial free throws, despite a late surge from the Eagles.
Andre Renta scored 17 points, including four 3-pointers, and collected two steals, exceeding his season average of 11.4 points.
Carter Lichtsinn posted a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, surpassing his season average of 8.53 rebounds.
Kenji Scales added 17 points, making three 3-pointers, and recorded four assists, surpassing his season average of 9.13 points.
Xavier Lewis contributed with 10 points and led the team with a season-high five assists.
The Blugolds improved to 13-3 overall and 2-3 in WIAC play. The Eagles are now 11-5 on the season and 1-4 in WIAC competition.
In their next game, the Blugolds will host UW-Oshkosh on Wednesday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. at the Sonnentag Event Center in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
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