EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (blugolds.com) – The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's basketball team was back in Zorn Arena on Thursday for their first game in over two weeks due to semester finals and the holiday break. In their return to action, the Blugolds hosted the St. Olaf Oles in a nonconference matchup before the new year. Despite outscoring their opponents 36-30 in the second half, the Blugolds fell to the Oles, 68-60.
The opening half started with the visitor's knocking down five three pointers in the first six minutes to go on a 14-2 run. The Blugolds battled back throughout the half and closed deficit to a 20-19 Eau Claire lead after a layup from Brock Voigt (Jr. – Sun Prairie, WI). Voigt was a co-leader in rebounds for the first half with five boards. Carter Brooks (Sr. – Lakeville, MN/North) also had five rebounds in the opening frame.
David Ijadimbola (So. – Brooklyn Park, MN/Park Center) led the scoring attack for Eau Claire with eight first half points. Brooks and Spencer Page (Sr. – Rice Lake, WI) were close behind with four points a piece in the opening half.
With a 14-point deficit at halftime, the Blugolds battled hard in the second to keep things close with the Oles by outscoring their opponents 36-30 in the final half. Michael Casper (So. – Merrill, WI) led the team by scoring all 14 of his points in the second half. Carter Brooks led all players with 12 rebounds throughout the game.
Despite a nine point run with seven minutes remaining in the contest, the Blugolds could not complete the comeback and fell 68-60.
The Blugolds (8-4, WIAC 1-1) turn their attention to Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) play to start the new year. A pair of home games next week against No. 5 UW-Platteville and UW-Whitewater will continue WIAC play. Tipoff on Wednesday, January 5th is scheduled for 7PM and Saturday, January 8th is slated for 5PM.
Follow the Blugolds all season long at Blugold Game Day or on our app, UWEC Blugolds.
