On Wednesday, Feb. 4th – also National Women in Sports Day – the #23 ranked University of Wisconsin-La Crosse women’s basketball team faced off against #9 ranked UW-Whitewater in Mitchell Hall. The Eagles put their all into the game yet faced a tough loss, making their record 13-7.
The beginning of the game started off close; both teams were neck and neck at 4-4 halfway through the first quarter. With 3:55 on the clock UW-Whitewater was in a 9-4 lead with a three-point shot made by Bri McCurdy, a UW-Whitewater Warhawk. The Eagles were able to soar ahead with seven more points of their own; five of which were made by Aaliyah Hamilton, turning the tables to a 11-9 lead for the Eagles. Before time ran out, the Warhawks made two free throws and tied the game. However, the Eagles pulled out on top with a final four points to end the first quarter, leaving the ending score to be 15-11.
The Eagles maintained their lead in the first half before UW-Whitewater made six straight baskets resulting in a tie by 4:06. The teams went back and forth trading baskets but by halftime the Warhawks were leading 27-25.
During halftime the UWL dance team performed, coached by Kyle Herberg and Meghann Weisbach. Their powerful performance left the audience dazzled. The whole team was in sync, showcasing the time and effort spent on the routine.
Coach Herberg has been with the team since September 2021. When asked what goals he has for the team he stated, “My goal for the team is for them to continue to progress in their dance abilities, and leave UWL with lifelong skills such as leadership, mentorship, and professionalism.”
If you are hoping to see more of their routines and abilities they are competing at WACPC State Dance Championships taking place Feb. 6 and 7, home basketball games and the National Dance Alliance (NDA) College Nationals in April.
In the third quarter the Warhawks continued their lead with 33-27 on the score board and a remaining time of 6:52 in the third. Madisyn Kilboten made a three-pointer for the Eagles, getting some points on the score board (33-30). Unfortunately, the Warhawks closed the third quarter with a lead of 51-33.
In the final quarter UW-Whitewater took the lead on their first possession of the fourth quarter resulting in a score of 54-33. The Eagles could not catch up resulting in a final score of 64-47.
Some of the Eagles’ upcoming games include Feb. 7 at UW-Platteville, Feb. 11 at UW-Stout and Feb. 14 vs UW-Stevens Point.
