EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – The UW-Stout women's basketball team flexed its offensive firepower and defensive tenacity in a 73-60 victory over bitter rival UW-Eau Claire on Wednesday night in this installment of The War on I-94.
The Blue Devils (16-4, 7-2 WIAC) came out firing, led by Amanda Giesen's red-hot first half, where she scored 20 of her game-high 23 points. The senior forward was nearly unstoppable, finishing 10-of-12 from the field and 2-of-2 from three-point range, while also adding three steals. Giesen's early dominance helped UW-Stout build a commanding 45-25 halftime lead.
Eau Claire (7-13, 2-7 WIAC) fought back in the second half, using a strong third quarter to cut the deficit to single digits behind Kyla Overskei's 19-point performance. The Blugolds outscored Stout 18-10 in the third quarter, but the Blue Devils responded in the fourth, holding off the rally with timely baskets from Lexi Wagner and Raegan Sorensen.
Wagner drained four three-pointers en route to 19 points, while Sorensen stuffed the stat sheet with 14 points, five rebounds, and four steals. The Blue Devils' defense played a crucial role in the win, forcing 22 Eau Claire turnovers, which they converted into 27 points.
Despite a more competitive second half, UW-Stout never trailed after the first quarter and held Eau Claire to just 3-of-17 shooting from beyond the arc.
By the Numbers
- 20 – First-half points for Amanda Giesen, who finished with a game-high 23.
- 27 – Points off turnovers for UW-Stout, capitalizing on Eau Claire's 22 giveaways.
- 38 – Points in the paint for the Blue Devils, showcasing their offensive efficiency.
- 36.0% – Three-point shooting percentage for UW-Stout (9-of-25).
- 80.0% – Free throw shooting percentage for the Blue Devils (8-of-10).
- 6 – Fast break points for both teams in a well-paced rivalry matchup.
Up Next
UW-Stout returns home to Johnson Fieldhouse on Saturday at 3 p.m. for a key WIAC showdown against UW-Whitewater. With the conference standings tightening, the Blue Devils will look to keep their momentum rolling and defend their home court.
