EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire fell to UW-Platteville with a final score of 86-56 on Wednesday at the Sonnentag Event Center. The Blugolds struggled to contain Platteville's offense, which scored 46 points in the paint. Despite the loss, the UW-Eau Claire made nine three-pointers, surpassing their season average of 7.25, and recorded four steals.
The Pioneers established a commanding lead in the first half, outscoring the Blugolds 49-23. A crucial 3-pointer at the 17:24 mark was followed by multiple layups and capitalizing on turnovers to extend the lead. The Blugolds struggled with turnovers, allowing Platteville to maintain control and dominate in points off turnovers with 14.
The second half saw Platteville extend its lead with a balanced attack, highlighted by a pair of free throws and later a layup. At the 18:04 mark, UWP sank a three-pointer, pushing the margin to 32. Despite efforts from UW-Eau Claire, including a three-pointer by
Andre Renta at 7:27, Platteville controlled the boards, out-rebounding the hosts 21-12. The Pioneers maintained their advantage, concluding the half with a final jumper, securing a 37-33 scoring edge in the period.
Andre Renta scored 22 points, surpassing his season average of 12.57, including three 3-pointers, and added four assists.
Will Boser contributed 12 points, connecting on four 3-point attempts, and grabbed four rebounds, surpassing his season average of 2.61.
Roman Richards pulled down five rebounds, exceeding his season average of 1.39, and made a steal.
Xavier Lewis recorded four points, a block, and a steal.
In their next contest, UWEC will travel to face UW-La Crosse on Saturday, Feb. 21. The game is set to tip off at 5 p.m. at Mitchell Hall Gymnasium in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
