EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – #14 Nebraska Wesleyan men's basketball team captured their first win of the season, outlasting UW-La Crosse 82-73 in a thrilling match at the UW-Eau Claire Tip Off Classic. Carter Glenn led the Prairie Wolves with a game-high 22 points, while Jack Groeteke and Conner Brown recorded a double-doubles, helping NWU recover after their close season-opening loss.

How It Happened

Nebraska Wesleyan set the tone early, opening with an impressive defensive and offensive showing to build a lead. Groeteke quickly established his presence in the paint, scoring seven points on 3-of-4 shooting and grabbing three rebounds to support NWU's 37-24 halftime advantage. Glenn added to the momentum with his seven points, keeping the Prairie Wolves firmly in control throughout the first half.

In the second half, UW-La Crosse fought back with a surge, trimming the deficit as their shooting improved. The Prairie Wolves held off the Eagles with clutch plays from Conner Brown and Nick Howard. Brown contributed a steady presence on both ends of the court, securing rebounds and scoring at key moments. Howard added crucial points off the bench, draining a pair of three-pointers to maintain NWU's edge. As the game tightened in the final minutes, Glenn's accuracy from the line proved pivotal, as he converted 10-of-11 free throws, extending the lead and securing the victory for Nebraska Wesleyan.

Inside the Numbers

Nebraska Wesleyan shot 42.9% from the field (24-for-56) and 41.7% from three-point range (10-for-24). The Prairie Wolves were particularly strong from the free-throw line, converting 75.0% of their attempts (24-for-32). Groeteke notched a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds, while Glenn contributed 22 points, including 10 made free throws. Brown also had a standout game, finishing with 11 points, 11 rebounds, and three assists.

UW-La Crosse shot 34.8% from the field and 29.0% from beyond the arc but matched NWU with 17 offensive rebounds. JJ Paider led the Eagles with 14 points and 10 rebounds. However, Nebraska Wesleyan's strong second-half defense and consistent shooting helped them outlast the Eagles' late push.

Up Next

Nebraska Wesleyan (1-1) will return be back on the road next weekend for a tournament in Jacksonville, Ill. Their first game will against a familiar face and old assistant coach, Chris Hamilton on Friday. The tipoff between the Prairie Wolves and Franklin College is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.

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