WKU men’s basketball battled its way to a 66-61 victory over Lipscomb on Sunday afternoon in E.A. Diddle Arena, evening its record at 2-2. Led by Don McHenry’s stellar 21-point performance, the Hilltoppers showed resilience to claim their first win over the Bisons since 1936.
McHenry spearheaded the offensive effort, shooting 9-for-19 from the field and adding two steals, two blocks, and a rebound. Forward Enoch Kalambay delivered a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Babacar Faye nearly matched the feat, finishing with 17 points, nine boards, two steals, and a pair of blocks.
How It Happened
WKU started fast, with Faye scoring on the opening possession and McHenry adding a breakaway basket moments later. However, Lipscomb responded with a 12-0 run midway through the first half, forcing the Hilltoppers into a nine-point deficit. WKU rallied late in the period, using a 12-0 run of its own to grab a slim lead before heading into halftime trailing 31-30.
McHenry opened the second half with a three-pointer, sparking a back-and-forth battle that saw multiple lead changes. With under eight minutes to play, Kalambay converted an and-one to regain the lead for WKU, 50-48. Moments later, the Hilltoppers’ defense forced Lipscomb into its 12th turnover, setting up a critical stretch where WKU extended its lead to seven points.
Lipscomb closed the gap to three in the final two minutes, but McHenry and Faye sealed the victory. McHenry’s coast-to-coast layup and Faye’s clutch free throws in the final seconds secured the win.
Notables
- WKU improved to 2-1 all-time against Lipscomb and 1-0 in Diddle Arena.
- McHenry’s 21 points marked a season high, complementing a defensive effort that forced nine steals.
- Kalambay notched his first double-double of the year, while Faye narrowly missed one, posting season highs in points and blocks.
- The Hilltoppers held the Bisons to 34.8% shooting and just five three-pointers, marking the second time this season WKU has limited an opponent to five or fewer from beyond the arc.
Up Next
WKU continues its homestand on Wednesday, Nov. 20, hosting Jackson State at 7 p.m. in Diddle Arena. The game will be streamed live on ESPN+.
