By Tommy McGowan, UWEC Sports Information
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (blugolds.com)- The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire women's basketball team extended their winning streak to five Wednesday night, defeating UW-River Falls 68-48.
The Blugolds had a great night from the opening tip, building a 29-8 lead by the end of the first quarter. They shot 71% from the field in the first, going 12 for 17, and knocking down four three-pointers. Hallee Hoeppner (Sr.-Winona, MN) was the leading scorer in the period, with six points.
Eau Claire would cool down in the second but still go into halftime up 38-19. Their defense was strong all night, forcing nine turnovers in the first half.
The third quarter the Blugolds shot 62% from the field, putting away any chances of a comeback. Jessie Ruden (Fr.-Rochester, MN/John Marshall) had seven points in the third, knocking down a three-pointer as well.
UWEC closed out the game by adding 11 more in the final period. They finished the game with an impressive 48 percent shooting percentage. The defense also finished the game with 20 turnovers forced.
Hoeppner and Ruden would finish as the leading scorers on the night for Eau Claire, both scoring 17 points. Hoeppner went 7-10 overall and 2-3 from three. Kelsey Bakken (Sr.-Marshall, WI) also had a good night, adding seven points and seven rebounds.
Eau Claire is now 10-6 overall and 5-1 in the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. They'll go on a two-game road trip to close out January, beginning with UW-La Crosse this weekend. Follow the action on Blugold Game Day or on the 'UWEC Blugolds' app from your mobile device.
