Sluggish Start Dooms Falcons

MEQUON, Wis. – The Concordia University Wisconsin men's basketball team dropped their home and conference opener on Tuesday evening, falling 67-85 to the nationally ranked Wisconsin Lutheran College Warriors.

The Falcons struggled to find their offensive rhythm early in the game, as WLC quickly built a double-digit lead. By halftime, the Warriors had extended their advantage to 41-22.

The second half began much like the first, with Wisconsin Lutheran maintaining their momentum. The Warriors hit several three-pointers, continuing to stretch their lead and control the pace of the game.

Despite the deficit, Concordia showed signs of life late in the half. Sophomore Casey Verhagen (Sheboygan, Wis.) sparked a brief run, scoring on a layup before the Falcons forced a defensive stop. Verhagen then set up freshman Luke Eggemeyer (Perryville, Wis.) for another layup.

Eggemeyer continued to make the most of his playing time, capping the late run with a dunk in the closing minutes. Sophomore Jacob Christjohn (Milwaukee, Wis.) also contributed, hitting a three-pointer off an assist from fellow sophomore Javanni Blackman (Milwaukee, Wis.).

However, the Falcons' efforts were unable to overcome the Warriors' strong start, and Concordia was unable to significantly close the gap.

Junior Logan Landers (Cedarburg, Wis.) led the Falcons with 16 points, shooting 5-of-8 from the field, and also grabbed eight rebounds. Verhagen finished with 12 points, while senior Adam Bruins (Oak Creek, Wis.) added nine.

Concordia will next face Division II Northern Michigan University in an exhibition game.