RIVER FALLS, Wis. — The UW-River Falls men's basketball team turned in one of its most complete performances of the season Saturday evening during Alumni Night where generations of Falcons were recognized and celebrated. The Falcons knocked off the reigning WIAC champs, UW-Platteville, who were ranked No. 20 in the nation, by 18 points inside Done Page Arena.
The Falcons came out aggressive from the opening tip and never looked back, building a 37-24 halftime advantage and continued to apply pressure throughout the entire second half. UWRF shot 49.2 percent from the field, while holding the nationally ranked Pioneers to just 38.5 percent shooting and 16.7 percent from deep for the night.
Jack Leifker led all scorers with 21 points, finishing 9-of-17 from the floor, adding six rebounds and two blocks in 31 minutes of action. Leifker repeatedly attacked the paint and helped the Falcons maintain control throughout the second half.
UWRF placed four players in double figures, highlighted by
Micah Thompson, who added 14 points, seven rebounds and three steals, and
Jeremy Wanguhu making his return to the court chipped in 11 points.
Gavin Ralph also reached double digits with 10 points followed by
Owen Havlik with 8, leading the team with 37 total minutes.
The Falcons controlled inside, scoring 46 points in the paint, and turned defense into offense with 12 fast-break points. UWRF forced 14 turnovers and converted them into 13 points, keeping the Pioneers from mounting any sustained rallies.
UW-Platteville was led by Bristol Lewis with 18 points, but the Falcons' defensive effort limited the Pioneers to just three made three-pointers on 18 attempts.
With the win, UW-River Falls improves to 7-11 overall and 2-5 in WIAC play, earning a statement victory against one of the nation's top programs.
The Falcons continue their conference slate, taking on UW-La Crosse for the second time this season. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. in Don Page Arena on Wednesday, Jan. 28.
