MACOMB, ILL. – The University of Denver men's basketball team couldn't overcome a rough first half on Friday, losing 82-75 to Western Illinois in Western Hall. Pioneer junior guard
Jase Townsend made some program history, becoming the 42nd player in the program to score at least 1,000 career points in his career.
Inside the Box Score:
- Townsend knocked down three 3s en route to 15 points.
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Kobey Lam put up a career-high 17 points off the bench.
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Eric Moenkhaus added 12 points in the return to starting lineup.
- WIU was led by a game-high 21 points Will Carius for a second straight game.
Significant Stats:
- Townsend became the 42nd player in program history
- The Crimson and Gold knocked down a season-high 10 3s in the loss.
Turning Point:
A 22-12 run from the Leathernecks midway through the first half to push the lead into double figures at 34-21.
As it Happened:
First Half:
Western Illinois got off to a fast start, jumping out a double-digit lead at 19-9 after a layup from Carius at the 12:24 mark. The Leathernecks kept the foot on the gas after that, taking a 14-point into the half, 82-75.
Second Half:
The Pioneers had an explosive 20 minutes in the second half, scoring 47 points in the period, highlighted by a 6-for-14 effort from beyond the arc. Townsend and Lam had it going on the offensive end, making several shots from deep. WIU pulled away for good with an 8-2 run late to push its lead into double digits.
Up Next:
Denver (2-15, 1-9 Summit League) continues to stay on the road with a two-game trip at Kansas City next weekend. First game is set for 6 PM MT on Feb. 19.
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