FIU Men’s Basketball Pull Out Win Against WKU

Jose Garcia/Staff Writer

The Panthers were able to come out with a win over the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, helping them climb the conference ranks. After this win the Panthers find themselves in fourth place of the C-USA rankings and as contenders for a March Madness spot.

The game was headlined by a dominant 22-point performance from big man Osasu Osaghae who continues to lead the nation in shot blocking, and currently also has the third best field goal percentage of D1 NCAA men’s basketball play. 

For the Hilltoppers, guard Jared Savage had himself a strong game with an impressive 20-point performance. It did not prove enough to challenge a solid FIU defense that remains unbeaten in the last 15 home games.

FIU’s offense shot 53 percent from the field and 26.1% from 3’s. The low 3-point conversion came as a surprise given that in the first half, they shot a notable 40% compared to a 0% on behalf oThe Panthers offense ran very efficiently, but a lackluster second half 3pt effort shows room for improvement.

Currently the team stands at 15-8, and this win should keep the Panthers as contenders for that much sought out March Madness seed. 

The next match ups for FIU are home and away against bitter rivals Florida Atlantic University on Wednesday February 5^th  and Saturday February 8^th. 

Following FAU’s back to back games comes a difficult match up against Louisiana Tech who currently stand at first in the C-USA rankings. If FIU can maintain the home momentum and translate it to the road the Panthers could see their first March Madness appearance in 25 years.