By Jake Steen, UWEC Sports Information
WAUKESHA, Wis. (Blugolds.com) – The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's basketball team took on Carroll University (Wis.) on Saturday afternoon but fell 65-59 on the final day of the Johnson Bank Tip-Off Tournament hosted by Carroll University.
The Blugolds who won on Friday, started today's game right where they left off, holding a 26-25 lead heading into halftime. It was a back and forth affair for most of the afternoon but the Pioneers made the most of their chances by finishing 8-9 from the free throw line, with the only miss occurring in the first half.
The Blugolds only committed 18 turnovers, compared to the Pioneers 19. But the difference in the game came when Carroll University took advantage with 27 points off of turnovers while Eau Claire only managed 13.
Jack Martinek (Jr. – New Brighton, MN) led both teams in scoring with 15 points, hitting six field goals and converting on all three free throw attempts. Martinek finished the tournament averaging 16 points in the two games, good enough to earn him a spot on the All-Tournament team.
Other Blugolds had strong days as well, George Diekelman (So. – Steven's Point, WI) and Jared Schniedermann (Jr. – Brooklyn Park, MN) each scored in double digits for the second straight night with 10 and 12 points respectively. Diekelmann added five rebounds and three assists as Schniedermann snagged three rebounds and two steals.
Jacob Kohner (Sr. – Bloomington, MN) contributed as well going perfect from the floor on 3-3 shooting to score 9 points, while three of his five total rebounds came on offense.
The Blugolds (1-2, 0-0 WIAC) look to keep the season rolling this week when Concordia (Wis.) comes to town for a Tuesday night showdown at Zorn Arena. That Nov. 24 game is set for a 7:00 p.m. tip-off on the Blugolds home court.