Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire women's basketball team faced a narrow defeat against UW-Stevens Point, losing 60-59 at the Sonnentag Event Center. The game concluded with a decisive 3-pointer by the Pointers in the final second, marking a challenging end to the Blugolds' last home game of the season.

The Blugolds had an impressive start, leading by 14 points in the second half. Junior Lauren Meudt from Waunakee, Wis., achieved her first career double-double with 18 points and 14 rebounds, alongside three assists and two steals. UW-Eau Claire began strong with a 13-2 run and maintained their lead until the closing moments. They made five 3-pointers in the first quarter, entering the second quarter ahead at 22-12.

Despite this strong performance, UW-Stevens Point (16-7, 6-6) gradually reduced their deficit during the second quarter. However, a late surge from UW-Eau Claire gave them a halftime lead of 34-21. Senior Lucia Hauge from Hugo, Minn., added two free throws early in the third quarter to extend their lead to 37-23. By the end of the third quarter, they were up by eight points at 45-37.

In a dramatic fourth quarter comeback, UW-Stevens Point outscored UW-Eau Claire by nine points (23-14). Overcoming a ten-point gap in just over four minutes was pivotal for their victory. Their final push included a decisive go-ahead shot just as time expired.

Hauge contributed significantly with eleven points while junior Kyla Overskei from Maple Grove, Minn., added ten more for UW-Eau Claire who also enjoyed an advantage on rebounds at 41-30. The match also marked senior celebrations for players Hauge; Katie Pampuch from Hubertus Wis.; Anna Koth from Maple Grove Minn.; and manager Corey Boerner.

Looking ahead to future games after this close loss against UW-Stevens Point (16–7), “The Blugolds hit road take No5,” taking place Wednesday February19th versus top-ranked opponents University Wisconsin Oshkosh starting promptly seven pm sharp.”