The Western Kentucky University (WKU) Hilltoppers edged past rival Murray State 81-76 in an intense overtime battle on Saturday at Diddle Arena. Senior guard Don McHenry delivered a season-high 29 points to lead the Hilltoppers to victory and secure WKU’s 100th all-time win over their historic rival.
The win marked WKU’s fourth consecutive victory, improving their record to 7-3 overall and 6-1 at home. It was also the Hilltoppers’ seventh win in their last eight games.
McHenry spearheaded the offensive effort with his game-high 29 points, complemented by five rebounds, two steals, two blocks, and an assist. Tyrone Marshall Jr. added a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds, while Babacar Faye contributed 17 points and nine rebounds. Khristian Lander rounded out the double-figure scorers with 12 points.
How It Happened
The game began as a defensive battle, with Murray State holding WKU to just 31.4% shooting in the first half. Despite going 0-of-10 from beyond the arc, the Hilltoppers stayed in the game by converting 11-of-12 free throws. WKU entered halftime trailing 39-33.
The second half saw a surge from WKU, as McHenry broke the team’s three-point drought less than a minute into the period. A 15-0 scoring run, highlighted by three-pointers from McHenry and Marshall Jr., helped the Hilltoppers reclaim the lead at 49-42.
Murray State fought back to tie the game at 67-67 in the final seconds of regulation. In overtime, McHenry’s clutch step-back three-pointer gave WKU a 76-74 lead with 38 seconds left. Key defensive stops and late free throws sealed the victory for the Hilltoppers.
Notable Achievements
- Historic Rivalry: WKU’s 100th win over Murray State extends their all-time series lead to 100-54, including a dominant 60-13 record at home in Diddle Arena.
- McHenry Shines: McHenry’s 29-point performance was just one shy of his career-best. He connected on four of WKU’s six three-pointers in the second half and overtime.
- Dominating the Paint: The Hilltoppers scored 40 points in the paint compared to Murray State’s 30.
- Resilience: After a scoreless first half from beyond the arc, WKU rebounded to shoot 6-of-15 from three in the second half and overtime.
Quotable
Head coach Hank Plona praised his team’s resilience, saying, “The togetherness we showed on both ends of the floor in high-pressure moments was incredible. I couldn’t be prouder of the guys to pull out this win.”
Tyrone Marshall Jr. emphasized the importance of fan support, stating, “I love our WKU fans. Getting a big win in front of them makes my day.”
Next Up
WKU continues their non-conference schedule with a first-ever matchup against Seattle on Tuesday, Dec. 17, at Diddle Arena. Tipoff is at 7 p.m. CT, and the game will be broadcast live on ESPN+.
