OSHKOSH, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's basketball team fell to UW-Oshkosh 84-75 at Kolf Sports Center on Wednesday night. The Blugolds, which trailed 42-36 at halftime, saw its comeback efforts hindered by Oshkosh's 10 three-pointers and 22 free throws. UW-Eau Claire scored 40 points in the paint and received 29 points from its bench, but could not overcome the home team's strong second-half performance.
Andre Renta tied a career high with 28 points.
The game commenced with
Andre Renta scoring consecutive layups to give the Blugolds an early 4-0 lead. The Titans responded with a pair of 3-pointers to seize a 6-4 advantage. The half saw several lead changes, with both teams capitalizing on turnovers and fast breaks. A crucial 3-pointer with 38 seconds remaining in the half extended Oshkosh's lead to 42-36 by the break.
UWO extended their lead early in the second half with a 3-pointer at the 18:10 mark, followed by two free throws, pushing the score to 47-38. UW-Eau Claire's Renta responded with a layup and a jumper, narrowing the gap to 52-48 with 13:25 remaining. However, Oshkosh maintained control and added crucial points, including a jumper at 6:24 to stretch the lead to 64-60. In the final seconds, the Titans sealed the game with two free throws, ensuring Oshkosh's 84-75 victory.
Andre Renta tied a career high, scoring 28 points, including three 3-pointers, and added five rebounds.
Roman Richards contributed with a season-high performance, scoring 10 points and pulling down a season-high 9 rebounds.
Roan Demovsky tallied 11 points and made two steals.
Carter Lichtsinn added 11 points while shooting 5-for-8 from the field.
UWEC holds a record of 14-8 overall and 3-8 in WIAC play. UW-Oshkosh stands at 16-6 overall with a 7-4 record in WIAC competition.
Looking ahead, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire will host UW-Whitewater on Saturday, Feb. 14. The matchup is set for 5 p.m. at The Sonnentag Event Center in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
