By Kyle Naber, UWEC Sports Information
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (Blugolds.com)- In the 177th matchup all-time against the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, the UW-Eau Claire men's basketball team fell 61-54 Saturday night at Zorn Arena.
The Blugolds were unable to get anything going offensively to begin the game as they shot just 24 percent in the first half. Stevens Point took advantage of the opportunity to slowly build their lead. By the end of the first half, the Pointers had extended their lead and held a 26-18 advantage.
In the second half, Eau Claire was unable to overcome the Pointer lead as Stevens Point did just enough to shake the Blugolds. Eau Claire was able to trim the Pointer lead down to one-possession games multiple times, but Stevens Point always had an answer.
Eau Claire's best chance came late when George Diekelman (Jr. – Stevens Point, WI/SPASH) was able to bring in an offensive rebound with Pointers all over him. Diekelman converted on the bucket and was fouled, but was unable to convert on the three-point play. The Pointers would seal the win at the free throw line, converting on eight straight free throws to finish the game.
Bublitz led all scorers with 18 points and closed the game out converting on all six of his free-throw opportunities. Following Bublitz was Jack Martinek (Sr. – New Brighton, MN/Irondale) and Josh Weix (So. – Eau Claire, WI/North), who turned in a strong second half to finish with 16 and 15 points, respectively.
The Blugolds (15-6, 5-5 WIAC) will be back in action on Wednesday, Feb. 8 as they travel to take on UW-Platteville. In their previous matchup the Blugolds were victorious, 83-58.
Follow all the action on Blugold Game Day.
