UW-Platteville 66, UW-Stout 62 MENOMONIE (January 16, 2016) - Stout battled the entire length of the game, including a five minute overtime period, but it wasn't enough as Platteville beat the Blue Devils 66-62. Stout's
John Keefe led the way with 15 points.
In a low scoring, grind it out, defensive battle, Stout (4-10, 0-4 WIAC) put up one of their best fights of the season. They started out slow as Platteville (7-8, 1-3 WIAC) came out shooting, going on a 3-13 run to begin the first half. Stout's second unit came through, bringing the game to within one point on an
Issac Elliot three pointer with 8:14 left in the half. They then charged ahead again to take a 24-22 lead on a three pointer from
Brandyn Christman. They closed out the half on top 29-28.
The second half proved to be a battle as well. The two teams traded buckets through the second half; it included six lead changes and four ties. Keefe tied the game at 56 with two clutch free throws with 1:28 left in the game. The Blue Devil defense stood strong as was able to force overtime.
In the overtime period, Stout had some good looks but were unable to capitalize on them, the Pioneers took the lead with under three minutes to go and did not let go of that lead. Stout came within two points, but the Pioneers made four consecutive free throws to win the game.
Along with his 15 points, Keefe added three rebounds, three steals and two assists. Christman scored a career high 13 for Stout, which included going 3-for-3 from the three point line.
Platteville's Robert Duax led the game with 16 points shooting 4-of-10 from the three point line.
The Blue Devils will stay home for their next game, battling UW-La Crosse Wednesday Jan. 20 for a 7 p.m. tip.
