WHITEWATER, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire fell in overtime to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater 83-76 on Saturday at the Williams Center. The game was competitive throughout, with both teams exchanging leads 15 times. The Blugolds' effort was led by their 9-for-21 shooting from beyond the arc, contributing to their total of 76 points. UW-Whitewater capitalized on 22 free throws and 11 steals to secure the victory.
The game began with the Blugolds taking an early lead after
Carter Lichtsinn's free throw, followed by a layup from
Kenji Scales assisted by Lichtsinn at 19:00, putting them ahead 3-0. Lichtsinn's defensive prowess was also notable, as he collected more rebounds than his season average of 6.47, further fueling the Blugolds' early momentum. UW-Whitewater responded with a 5-0 run, including a three-pointer at 18:10, to take a brief lead. UWEC regained control, with
Andre Renta and
Will Boser each hitting a three-pointer, contributing to a 9-5 lead at the 16:45 mark. The visitors maintained a steady scoring pace, with Boser closing the half with a crucial three-pointer with 40 seconds left, helping the Blugolds finish the half ahead 35-31.
UWEC and UWWW ended the second half in a dramatic 67-67 tie.
Will Boser made an early impact with a 3-pointer at 19:13, extending the visitors' lead to 38-31.
Andre Renta and
Xavier Lewis combined for crucial layups, maintaining the pressure on the Warhawks. Notably, Lewis has now collected at least 6 total rebounds in three straight games, underscoring his consistent performance. UWW's layup at the 1:40 mark temporarily gave them a 66-65 lead. In the final seconds,
Roan Demovsky's two free throws at 0:03 sent the game to overtime.
The Blugolds and UW-Whitewater battled closely in overtime, with neither team able to maintain a significant lead.
Will Boser opened the scoring with a three-pointer at 4:39, assisted by
Roan Demovsky, giving the visitors a narrow edge. UWW quickly responded for the home team, hitting two free throws and a jumper to put UW-Whitewater ahead. The lead exchanged hands multiple times, with
Luke Reder's layup at 1:37 briefly giving UWEC a two-point advantage. In the final minute, the Warhawks chased in decisive free throws, sealing an 83-76 victory.
Will Boser scored a season-high 22 points, highlighted by six 3-pointers.
Carter Lichtsinn added 14 points and collected eight rebounds.
Andre Renta contributed 13 points and dished out four assists.
Xavier Lewis posted 11 points and secured six rebounds.
UWEC stands at 13-5 overall and 2-5 in WIAC play. UW-Whitewater holds a 13-5 overall record and is 4-3 in the WIAC.
Looking ahead, the Blugolds will host UW-Stout on Wednesday, Jan. 28 at 8 p.m. The matchup will take place at the Sonnentag Event Center in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
Follow the Blugolds all season long at
Blugolds.com or on our app,
Blugold Sports, and on social media on
Twitter,
Instagram, and
Facebook.
