The WKU Hilltoppers faced tough challenges on the hardwood this week as both the men's and women's basketball teams squared off against FIU. The contests showcased key performances and pivotal moments, highlighting the resilience and determination of the Hilltoppers.
On the men's side, the Hilltoppers dropped their game against FIU with a final score of 85-66. Freshman guard Julius Thedford led WKU's scoring with 18 points, maintaining his status as the squad's top scorer for the second consecutive game. Thedford's performance included shooting 7-for-12 from the field and contributing four rebounds. Tyrone Marshall Jr. also chipped in with four rebounds, and Jalen Jackson notched four assists and defended well with six steals.
The game began shakily for the Hilltoppers when Thedford opened the scoring with free throws at the 18:51 mark, only for FIU to respond with an 11-0 run, leaving WKU trailing 11-3 shortly thereafter. Despite efforts to claw back, including layups from Thedford and Khristian Lander, the Hilltoppers fell behind drastically, trailing by as much as 24 points as FIU demonstrated impressive shooting from beyond the arc.
The Hilltoppers managed to cut the deficit to 18 points late but couldn't recover, falling to the Panthers decisively. Notably, WKU utilized their starting lineup of Bayless, McHenry, Thedford, Odiahi, and Kalambay for the first time this season. This match is now part of the history, as the Hilltoppers now have a 15-9 record when playing FIU on the road.
The women’s team faced FIU as well, coming up just short in what was both thrilling and frustrating. The Lady Toppers displayed determination, coming back from down 14 points with just over three minutes left. Josie Gilvin put on a remarkable show, breaking the WKU single-game steals record with 11 steals, which ties the Conference USA record. Gilvin finished the game with nine points and eight assists, contributing significantly to the team's efforts.
The game commenced with WKU jumping out to an 11-point lead, but the Panthers quickly rallied back, resulting in back-and-forth scoring. After trailing at halftime, the Lady Toppers roared back with an 8-0 run to regain the lead at the beginning of the third quarter. Unfortunately, they couldn't maintain the momentum and eventually found themselves down again before launching their late comeback.
Despite forcing 38 turnovers from FIU—a season high for WKU—the Lady Toppers weren't able to secure the victory, with the final score reflecting another tough loss at 63-61. Destiny Salary and Alexis Mead both scored over 20 points, with Salary matching her season high of 21 points. Mead also had seven steals, moving her up the career steals list.
Head coach Greg Collins noted the team's struggles, stating, "FIU outplayed us. Our defense was porous, and they kept driving our guards to the basket, which is why they got 50 points in the paint. We weren't making open shots. It’s challenging to win when you’re being beaten on both ends." This candid assessment speaks to the need for improvement as the season progresses.
The Hilltoppers will regroup as they prepare for their next games, with the men hosting Jacksonville State on January 9, and the women facing Jacksonville State and Kennesaw State on January 11. Fans can catch the action through various media channels including ESPN+ for the men's games.
Both teams are at pivotal points early in their seasons, and the coaching staff will be focusing on key adjustments to turn these performances around. Each player’s commitment and individual contributions will be significant as they work to shake off these tough outings and build upon their strengths going forward.
For more updates on the WKU basketball teams, including schedules and scores, visit wkusports.com or follow them on social media!