Boxscore

Watching forward James Haarsma Wednesday night against SIU-Edwardsville, it’s hard to believe that the sophomore has just returned from a foot injury. Haarsma’s career-high 22 points and consistent defensive energy from the Aces led the University of Evansville (2-0) to a 76-46 win over the Cougars (0-3) at Roberts Stadium.

 

Haarsma’s 22 points crushed his previous career high of 13 points. While hitting 10-of-14 from the floor, he also added 12 rebounds. Freshman Colt Ryan collected 14 points, five assists and two steals. Sophomore Denver Holmes posted 11 points while fellow sophomore Bryan Bouchie added 10 points and two blocks. Freshman Troy Taylor notched 12 rebounds on the defensive end and also made six assists.

"Our guys worked extremely hard, and Haarsma really gave us a lift," said Coach Marty Simmons.  "He hit the boards and did a great job for us inside.  We have a lot of room for improvement, but we're getting better."

Added Haarsma, "I felt good out there tonight.  My teammates were screening and passing well, and that made it easy for me to get good shots."

 

The tone for the game was set early in the first half with a three-point basket from Ryan starting a 6-0 run for the Aces. SIUE’s 24 percent shooting from the floor didn’t help the Cougars, as UE was out to a 20-4 advantage before the 11-minute mark. With Haarsma’s 14 first half points and the team hitting 16-of-31 shots, the Aces held a 43-21 lead at the half  SIUE never got closer than 15 in the second half.

  
Evansville shot just over 49 percent for the game compared to the Cougars' 31 percent. UE also dominated on the boards with a 49-24 rebounding edge.

The Aces will get three days to prepare before challenging 10th ranked Butler Saturday at 7:05 p.m. at Roberts Stadium.