WKU to tipoff non-conference showdown with Austin Peay
After picking up two-straight victories on the road, Western Kentucky (8-3) is set to return home this weekend to continue their non-conference schedule, welcoming the Austin Peay Governors (6-6) to E.A. Diddle Arena.
The Hilltoppers hold an 8-1 all-time record against the Governors in the series dating back to the 1990-91 campaign. In their last matchup in Clarksville during the 2022-23 season, Western Kentucky escaped Austin Peay in a 75-74 thriller.
WKU is coming off a recent 91-84 win over Wright State to pick up their eighth win of the year. The Hilltoppers shot 52.2% (36-69) from the floor, 38.1% (8-21) from three and 57.9% (11-19) from the free throw line. WKU also outrebounded Wright State 42-36.
Western Kentucky junior guard Don McHenry had another outstanding performance for the Hilltoppers this past Tuesday night, dropping a grand total of 30 points, three rebounds, two assists and one steal in the win.
Another Hilltopper to make a considerable difference in the victory was senior forward Tyrone Marshall Jr., who picked up 20 points, seven rebounds, one assist, two steals and two blocks.
WKU senior guard Khristian Lander also made his presence known for the Hilltoppers once again, collecting a total of 15 points, six rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block.
Despite being outrebounded 35-30, Austin Peay recently earned their sixth win of the season, escaping Southern Illinois 70-68. The Governors shot 47.5% (28-59) from the field, 39.1% (9-23) from beyond the arc and 55.6% (5-9) from the free throw line in the victory.
Graduate guard Ja'Monta Black led the Governors on the scoreboard, collecting a total of 22 points, two rebounds, two assists and two steals.
Austin Peay graduate guard Dezi Jones was another high-level playmaker for the Governors, dropping 12 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, two blocks and one steal.
Also making a difference in the win was graduate guard DeMarcus Sharp, who picked up 12 points, four rebounds, three assists, three blocks and one steal.
Western Kentucky will return to E.A. Diddle Arena to take on Austin Peay on Saturday afternoon. The opening tipoff is scheduled for 2 p.m. CT as the contest will air on ESPN+.
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