Boxscore

 

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Jason Holsinger found a perfect time to end his shooting slump.  The senior guard hit six of eight shots, including five of six from three-point range, to lead the University of Evansville back from an 11-point deficit and on to a 61-52 victory Saturday night over Wichita State.

 

The Aces are 15-8 overall and 7-6 in the Missouri Valley Conference, and moved up to fourth place in the MVC with the victory.  The Shockers are 11-13 and 5-8.  Evansville is back in action Wednesday at home against second place Illinois State.

 

Holsinger came into the game with just one three-pointer in his last 13 attempts before hitting his first four Saturday.  The Aces needed them because Wichita State led by as many as 11 points in the first half at 19-8 before the Aces closed with a 20-4 run over the final eight minutes of the half to take a 28-23 lead into the locker room.

 

Holsinger hit three more to help Evansville build a 51-38 second half lead, and the Shockers couldn't get closer than eight points the rest of the way.  MVC leading scorer Shy Ely joined his teammate in double figures on Saturday, tossing in 15 points.  J.T. Durley led the way for the Shockers, totaling 10 points.

"I've had so much support from my coaches and my teammates," Holsinger said.  "I haven't shot well lately, and they've kept encouraging me to keep shooting.  I tried to stay relaxed tonight.  I got a couple to go in early, and that always helps a shooter feel better about himself."

 

Evansville’s victory can also be attributed to its free throw advantage.  The Aces shot 30 free throws, connecting on 20, while the Shockers only attempted 10, hitting eight.