Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's basketball team was close to achieving an upset against No. 1 ranked UW-Platteville on Wednesday at Bo Ryan Court but ultimately fell short. Despite leading for nearly 30 minutes, the Blugolds could not maintain their lead against the reigning Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) champions.

UW-Eau Claire, with a record of 9-6 overall and 1-3 in the conference, led for most of the first half and had a nine-point lead multiple times in the second half. However, the top-ranked Pioneers, now 14-1 overall and 4-0 in WIAC play, managed to rally in the closing minutes to overcome their deficit.

Carter Huschka played a pivotal role for UW-Eau Claire by tying his career high with 28 points. He also led his team with eight rebounds and four assists. Huschka's go-ahead layup early in the first half put his team ahead 10-8, maintaining that lead throughout the half. Drew Maloney contributed significantly with back-to-back three-pointers that extended their advantage to nine points at one stage.

Despite entering halftime with a narrow 39-35 lead, UW-Eau Claire saw their advantage evaporate as UW-Platteville hit a crucial go-ahead three-pointer at the 8:36 mark in the second half to take a 59-58 lead. The game remained competitive until UW-Platteville closed out with a decisive 14-4 run.

Andre Renta added 17 points and four assists for UW-Eau Claire, while Maloney finished with eight points and five rebounds. The Blugolds shot 49% from the field but struggled from beyond the arc at just 25%. Meanwhile, UW-Platteville shot slightly lower at 48% overall but went perfect from the free throw line with all sixteen attempts made.

The Blugolds will next face off against UW-Whitewater on Saturday, January 18th at Kachel Gymnasium, where tip-off is scheduled for 5 p.m.

For more information on UW-Eau Claire's season updates, visit Blugolds.com or follow them on social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.