Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's basketball team was narrowly defeated by Marietta College, 64-62, at the Marietta Shrine Tournament on Friday. The Blugolds maintained a lead for most of the game but were overtaken by a last-second basket from the Pioneers, who advanced to the tournament championship.

UW-Eau Claire, now holding a 1-2 record, built a significant lead in the first half. Cade Hall played a crucial role in this effort, achieving a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds by halftime. The Blugolds led 34-24 at the break.

Marietta made a strong comeback with a 10-0 run early in the second half. Despite this challenge, UW-Eau Claire held onto their lead until the final minutes. The Pioneers took their first lead since early in the game with just over four minutes remaining, going ahead 55-54.

Hall briefly put UW-Eau Claire back in front with a three-pointer at 1:21 left on the clock, making it 62-60. However, Marietta responded by scoring the final four points of the game. They tied it with a dunk and secured victory with one second remaining. The Blugolds were unable to attempt another shot before time expired.

Hall concluded the game with impressive stats of 20 points and 16 rebounds. Carter Huschka contributed 11 points and eight rebounds while Andre Renta added eight points and four rebounds for UW-Eau Claire.

The Blugolds shot 38% from the field and out-rebounded Marietta 41-39 but committed 18 turnovers during the match.

Next up for UW-Eau Claire is Maryville College in the consolation game of the tournament on Saturday, November 16th, at 5 p.m. Eastern.