OSHKOSH, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire women's basketball team fell to the UW-Oshkosh, 64-52, at Kolf Sports Center on Wednesday. Despite holding a brief lead early in the game, the Blugolds were outscored 19-10 in the second quarter and could not recover. Their offensive efforts were highlighted by 30 points scored in the paint, but they were unable to overcome the Titans' eight 3-pointers and 16 successful free throws. The Blugolds secured a total of 39 rebounds, significantly exceeding their season average of 31.0, with 29 defensive rebounds surpassing the typical 19.0. The team has now secured at least 10 offensive rebounds in 2 consecutive games.
Eau Claire started the first quarter with a strong defensive presence, leading to a 16-10 advantage over Wis.-Oshkosh by the end.
Delaney Nyenhuis made an early impact, scoring the opening basket with a layup at 9:01 and securing 6 defensive rebounds, surpassing her season average. Oshkosh responded with a three-pointer at 8:37, giving the Titans a brief lead.
Sophie Hafeman contributed significantly for the Blugolds, scoring two layups, including one assisted by
Britta DeMar at 7:10.
Emily Vogel capitalized on a turnover with a fast-break layup at 0:54, securing UWEC's six-point lead going into the second quarter.
In the second quarter, the Titans edged ahead with a strong performance, outscoring the Blugolds 19-10 that included a run of two free throws at 9:50 and an added layup at 8:05.
Olivia Witkowski responded for UW-Eau Claire, scoring a pair of layups early on and ultimately totaling 14 points, significantly exceeding her season average of 8.94. Oshkosh maintained their lead through steady scoring, including a 3-pointer at 5:42. The Blugolds'
Britta DeMar closed the quarter with a layup at 0:08, narrowing the gap to 29-26 by halftime.
The third quarter featured a series of defensive plays and turnovers. UW-Oshkosh capitalized on the Blugolds' early turnover with a steal, but both teams struggled to convert offensively in the opening minutes.
Reanna Hutchinson scored a jumper at 6:55 to keep UWEC close, but the Titans answered with a 3-pointer and a layup to extend their lead. The Titan's fast break 3-pointer at 2:04 solidified a strong quarter for Oshkosh. Despite a late three-pointer by
Britta DeMar for the Blugolds, the home team held a 44-35 lead at the end of the quarter.
The Titans secured a decisive win over the Blugolds, closing the game with a strong fourth quarter performance to finish 64-52. UW-Eau Claire's
Sophie Hafeman opened the quarter with a layup and a 3-pointer, narrowing the gap early on.
Olivia Witkowski contributed significantly with multiple layups, cutting the lead to a single point at 47-46 midway through the quarter. However, the Titans responded with crucial free throws and a late 3-pointer, extending their lead in the final minute.UWO's opening jumper set the tone, while a key 3-pointer helped maintain the lead throughout the quarter.
Olivia Witkowski led the scoring effort with 14 points on 6-of-15 shooting and added six rebounds.
Kyla Overskei contributed eight points and collected seven rebounds, showcasing her presence on the boards by exceeding her season average.
Sophie Hafeman scored nine points, including one 3-pointer, while
Delaney Nyenhuis matched her with four points and seven rebounds.
Emily Vogel added two steals to her two points, playing a key role on defense.
UW-Eau Claire holds an 11-6 overall record and stands at 1-5 in WIAC competition. The Titans are undefeated with a 17-0 overall record and lead the WIAC with a 6-0 mark.
Looking ahead, the Blugolds will face UW-Whitewater on Saturday, Jan. 24 at Sonnentag Event Center in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Tip-off is set for 5 p.m.
