The Denver Pioneers held the lead for a good portion of the final minutes of the first half against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, but at halftime they find themselves down by three points, 34-31. Western Kentucky ended the half of a 6-0 run with a couple of free throws, a jumper and a layup.
The Pioneers went on a 14-1 run during the middle of the frame, holding a 22-17 lead with 8:39 left on the clock. However, sharper shooting for the Hilltoppers has kept them alive and, ultimately, in the lead. Western Kentucky has hit 55.6 percent of its shots and four of its five free throws.
The Pioneers, on the other hand, are just 12-of-25 from the field and 4-of-7 from the free throw line. Rob Lewis and Royce O'Neale are tied for the team lead with seven points each. Chris Udofia has put in six points, as well.
With 20 minutes left to play, can the Pioneers pull out the victory and play in the Sun Belt Tournament championship game?
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