Tops Defeat Louisiana Tech in Blackout

Match 65-54
By William Naylor william.naylor887@topper.wku.edu | 0 comments

BOWLING GREEN, KY. – The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers basketball team hosted
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs in E.A. Diddle Arena on February 6th. Coming right out of the tunnel,
the Tops came out with focus like a lion to defeat Louisiana Tech 65-54.

The Hilltoppers created a 20-point halftime lead against the Louisiana Bulldogs, with over 5,770
fans despite the cold weather, dressed in all black for the home team, cheered on the Tops to an
incredible victory over Louisiana Tech.

The triumph against Louisiana Tech, now ties both of the teams for second place in Conference
USA standings with only one game left to play against North Texas who are currently 16-9 and
first in Conference USA.

During the press video, it was clear that Rick Stansbury, WKU head coach was very proud of his
team. According to WKU Sports, Stansbury says, “I thought our guys physically and mentally
had that edge with us, particularly in the first half … I thought our press was good for us. We
were able to score enough to get set in it, and I think that kept them from really getting in a
rhythm.” It is very clear that Stansbury is proud of his team for all of the hard work that they
have put in this season.

Western Kentucky had a shooting percentage of 63.6 during the first half and then used a 17-6
run to create a 36-20 advantage with 3:36 to play in the frame. The Tops made their final shots of
the half, which included an unexpected layup by a freshmen, Jordan Rawls.

During the press interviews, Justice Rawls said, “It really just started with the energy for us and
from the crowd … We kind of got going and got in a rhythm. The ball was moving well and
wasn't sticking, and then some dudes knocked down some shots for us, so it was good." It is clear
to the press that Justice has a love for his Hilltopper team because he has learned to work
together with his teammates.

The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers were able to force 15 turnovers and outscored Louisiana
Tech 17-4 on their mistakes, this allowed the Hilltoppers to send the Bulldogs back to pound
with a win of 65-54.

The WKU Record is now 15-8 overall, and 8-3 in Conference USA.

The upcoming game is against Southern Miss and the Tops are looking for another win. The
Golden Eagles showed put up a good fight for the Tops. The game will be played at E.A. Diddle
Arena and can also be streamed online via Stadium on Facebook.