Western Kentucky University's basketball team, the Hilltoppers, showcased a strong performance in the Conference USA Tournament, culminating in their victory over UTEP with a final score of 78-71 to win the championship. This win marks the program's first-ever C-USA Tournament championship and secures their spot in the NCAA Tournament. The Hilltoppers' journey to the final was highlighted by a decisive 85-54 win against Middle Tennessee in the semifinals. Steve Lutz, in his first season as WKU's coach, led the team to this significant achievement, especially notable given the team's struggle with four consecutive losses at the end of the regular season. The victory over UTEP was particularly dramatic, with WKU overcoming a seven-point deficit in the second half to clinch the title.
WKU GOES DANCING | How's this for a first season for WKU coach Steve Lutz? The program's first-ever C-USA Tournament championship. Hilltoppers (22-11) headed for the Big Dance after beating UTEP 78-71. They'd lost four straight to end the regular season.
Hilltoppers are on a 14-2 run to take a five-point lead. 58-53 WKU with 9:09 to go. UTEP hasnβt scored in 4:40. CBSSN. https://t.co/IAZNBlDdMM
Hilltoppers are on a 12-2 run to take a three-point lead. 56-63 WKU with 9:29 to go. CBSSN. https://t.co/IAZNBlDdMM
UTEP roared out to take a 7-point lead out of halftime. Western Kentucky will come out of the timeout with a chance to tie it up at the line. 53-51 Miners with 11:20 to play. CBS Sports Network.
WKU with the lead at the half. https://t.co/9SQJg8CnsQ
πΏπππππΌππΎπ π₯ WKU defeats Middle Tennessee, 85-54 to advance to the CUSA Tournament Final #GoTops | #RocketCityHoops https://t.co/4c9SFkFmNp
Western Kentucky is up 32 on MTSU now in the CUSA semifinals. Their fans are having a field day in Huntsville. 13-4 run. 6:44 away from a date with UTEP in the CUSA finals. Steve Lutz is looking for his third consecutive NCAA Tournament with two different schools.
Western Kentucky is feeling good right now. The Hilltoppers head into the break with a 19-point lead on Middle Tennessee. 23-7 run. Winner gets a shot at UTEP in the Conference USA finals. 46-27 WKU.
Western Kentucky is feeling good right now. The Hilltoppers head into the break with a 19-point lead on Middle Tennessee. 23-7 run. Winner gets a shot at UTEP in the Conference USA semifinals. 46-27 WKU.