EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire earned an 85-67 victory over the University of Wisconsin-River Falls at the Sonnentag Event Center on Wednesday. The Blugolds established control early, leading 42-34 at halftime and maintaining their advantage throughout the second half. Key highlights included a strong inside presence, scoring 48 points in the paint, and a solid defensive effort with six steals. Notably, the Blugolds' total points for the game exceeded their season average of 72.25, showcasing an impressive offensive display.
The game began with a series of lead changes in the opening minutes.
Carter Lichtsinn initiated the scoring with a layup, and
Xavier Lewis quickly added to the lead with a jumper, giving the Blugolds a 4-1 advantage. The Falcons responded with a three-pointer to tie the game at 12 with 13:03 on the clock. The Blugolds then pulled ahead with a 10-5 run, highlighted by
Luke Reder's two three-pointers, moving the score to 29-17. As the half progressed,
Andre Renta contributed significantly, notching multiple baskets, helping the home team secure a 42-34 lead at the break. The team also excelled on defense, grabbing more defensive rebounds than their season average of 24.0.
Tyler Haney opened the second half for UWEC with a 3-pointer, assisted by
Will Boser, at 19:18, extending their lead. The home team maintained momentum with
Carter Lichtsinn and
Roan Demovsky contributing key layups to keep the pressure on UW-River Falls.
Andre Renta played a pivotal role, scoring back-to-back layups off fast breaks at the 8:06 and 7:50 marks, widening the gap.
Tyler Haney's consistent scoring, which included achieving a season-high total of 17 points, helped the Blugolds secure a decisive second-half performance, finishing with an 85-67 victory over UW-River Falls.
Andre Renta scored 16 points, making six of nine field goal attempts, and recorded six rebounds along with two steals.
Tyler Haney added 17 points, converting three of five from beyond the arc and shooting 70% from the field overall to earn a season high in total points. Lewis posted 12 points and led the team with nine rebounds, while also contributing two blocks.
Luke Reder finished with 12 points, successfully hitting all three of his 3-point attempts.
UWEC stands at 14-6 overall and 3-6 in WIAC play after the recent victory. UW-River Falls holds a 7-13 overall record with a 2-7 mark in WIAC competition.
In their next game, the Blugolds will host UW-Stevens Point on Saturday, Feb. 7. The matchup will take place at Sonnentag Event Center in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, with a tip-off at 5 p.m.
