EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's basketball team fell to UW-Oshkosh 79-73 in a closely contested matchup at the Sonnentag Event Center. Despite outscoring their opponents 44-26 in the paint, the Blugolds could not overcome a barrage of 14 three-pointers from Wis.-Oshkosh. The game featured five ties and nine lead changes, underscoring the competitive nature of the evening. Notably, this was the second consecutive game in which the Blugolds recorded at least 32 total rebounds and made at least 6 three-point field goals, highlighting their consistent performance on the boards and beyond the arc.
The game began with Eau Claire's
Carter Lichtsinn scoring a tip-in at 19:30 to give the home team an early lead. Oshkosh responded with a layup at 19:15 and a significant three-pointer at 12:37 to extend their lead to 14-8.
Xavier Lewis of UW-Eau Claire kept the game close with a dunk at 8:43, bringing the score to 20-18. In the closing moments, the visitor's secured their lead by hitting two free throws with 45 seconds remaining, contributing to the 36-33 advantage at the end of the first half.
The Titans opened the second half with a strong offensive performance, quickly extending their lead to 11 points with a layup at 17:56 and a 3-pointer at 12:51. The Blugolds responded with a series of scoring plays, including a 3-pointer by
Kenji Scales at 12:37 to narrow the gap. Despite a late surge by UWEC, including a tip-in by
Carter Lichtsinn with 13 seconds remaining, Oshkosh maintained control. The game concluded with UWO securing a 79-73 victory, underscored by a final free throw with three seconds left.
Kenji Scales led UW-Eau Claire with 18 points, converting 7 of 14 field goal attempts, including two from beyond the arc.
Carter Lichtsinn added 12 points and collected seven rebounds, showcasing efficiency with six successful shots on 10 attempts.
Xavier Lewis contributed 16 points, making 8 of 9 field goals and grabbing seven boards.
Will Boser tallied 11 points, sinking three 3-pointers and securing five rebounds.
The Blugolds hold a 13-4 overall record and are 2-4 in WIAC competition. Wis.-Oshkosh stands at 14-3 overall and 5-1 in WIAC play.
In their next game, UW-Eau Claire will travel to face UW-Whitewater on Saturday, Jan. 24. Tip-off is set for 5 p.m. at Williams Center in Whitewater, Wisconsin.
