Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Narrowly Outscored by Charlotte 49ers at E. A. Diddle Arena
In a closely contested conference game at E. A. Diddle Arena, the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers fell short against the Charlotte 49ers with a final score of 75-71. The Hilltoppers now stand with an overall record of 0-1, while the 49ers have started their season at 1-0.
The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers displayed a resilient effort in their home venue, rallying from a first-half deficit where they scored only 30 points compared to the visiting team's 38. In the second half, the Hilltoppers surged to add another 41 points to their tally but couldn't overcome the consistent performance of the Charlotte team who put up an additional 37 points.
The home team showcased notable statistics despite falling just short of victory; they achieved an impressive free throw percentage of approximately eighty-four percent and capitalized on turnovers by scoring ten points off them. The defensive efforts were highlighted by six steals and one block throughout the game.
On offense, Western Kentucky was led by their two-point shooting where they made seventeen out of thirty-three attempts, translating to around fifty-two percent shooting from that range. They also managed to secure seven three-point shots out of twenty-five attempts but struggled from beyond the arc with a twenty-eight percent success rate.
The Charlotte 49ers demonstrated efficient scoring across both halves and maintained a strong field goal percentage throughout, hitting nearly fifty-six percent from the field overall. Their dominance in paint was evident as they racked up thirty-eight points inside while also converting eight three-point shots for an even forty percent from long distance.
Charlotte's ball distribution was effective as well; eighteen assists were recorded alongside only eight turnovers which gave them an assist-to-turnover ratio above two—a testament to their careful ball handling and teamwork during this matchup.
As for rebounds, both teams fought hard under the boards; however, it was Charlotte who edged out with thirty-three total rebounds against Western Kentucky's twenty-seven. This slight edge in rebounding may have contributed to their ability to maintain control throughout most parts of this tightly contested game.
Looking forward after this tough loss at home for Western Kentucky fans is another opportunity for redemption as The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers are set to face off against Florida International Panthers at Ocean Bank Convocation Center in Miami on January twenty-seventh at seven PM Eastern Time (ET). Fans can catch all live-action broadcasted on ESPN+ internet network as The Hilltoppers aim for success on Florida International's court.