By Kyle Naber, UWEC Sports Information
LA CROSSE, Wis. (Blugolds.com)- The No. 10 University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's basketball team earned another quality Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) win Wednesday night after defeating the UW-La Crosse 62-58 at Mitchell Hall.
Eau Claire came into the midweek contest ranked first in the nation in field goal percentage (53.4) and seventh in three-point percentage (42.6). However, the Eagles would test the Blugolds in both of these categories, holding Eau Claire to 42 percent shooting on the night (21-50) and just 2-15 (13.3) from beyond the arc.
In the first half, the Eagles would jump out to a quick lead, however, it would be short lived as the Blugolds took no time in responding. Through the majority of the first half it was a back and forth game featuring seven lead changes. On the seventh lead change it was Eau Claire taking over once again and this time they did not let it go as they would go on an 8-2 run to end the first half giving them a 27-21 halftime lead.
In the second half, La Crosse would look to cut down the Blugold lead quickly. However, Eau Claire was able to fight off the first run thanks to a lay-up, steal, and assist from George Diekelman (Jr. – Stevens Point, WI/SPASH) to maintain the lead. But the Eagles wouldn't go away and following back-to-back three pointers, regained the lead.
The game remained close the rest of the way but the Blugolds were able to pull out a hard fought victory in the final moments thanks to clutch free throws. Eau Claire was perfect on their final 10 free throw attempts, all coming with just over two minutes remaining.
Overall, Eau Claire's free throw shooting a big factor to the win. As a team they were shooting 68.2 percent from the line coming into the game, but on Wednesday night they were locked in, shooting 90 percent (18-20). Both teams were evenly matched in several categories including ties in rebounds (34) and turnovers (9).
Leading the way for the Blugolds was Diekelman who did a little bit of everything in the win. Diekelman led all scorers with 24 points and added seven rebounds and four assists. Following him was Jack Martinek (Sr. – New Brighton, MN/Irondale) who added 16 points. Josh Weix (So. – Eau Claire, WI/North) and Jared Schneidermann (Sr. - Brooklyn Park, MN/Concordia Academy) were able to aide in the effort adding eight and seven points, respectively.
The win improves the Blugolds to 12-2 on the season and gives them a 2-1 mark early in conference play. Eau Claire will be back in action this Saturday as they return to Zorn Arena for a 5:00 p.m. match-up with UW-Oshkosh.
Follow all the action this season on Blugold Game Day.
