News Release

River Falls, Wi. — Micah Helfrey made 2-4 free throws in the final minute of the game and the UW-River Falls defense held UW-Platteville to one point in the final five minutes as the Falcons beat the Pioneers 50-47 to claim the WIAC title out-right.

UW-Whitewater was beaten at UW-Stout and Superior upset UW-Stevens Point at Stevens Point.

The conference title is coach Rick Bowen's first and the program's first since 1950.

Platteville's Brad Reitzner made 5-8 three-pointers in the first half to lead the Pioneers to a 31-21 lead at the break.

The Falcons offensive woes continued in the second half but their defense shut down Reitzner, holding him to just six points.

The Falcons took their first lead of the ball game with three minutes to play when Rich Melzer made a jump shot to put them ahead 48-46.

Melzer led the Falcons with 15 points and 11 rebounds, his second consecutive double-double. Helfrey had 13 points and five assists while Hans Hoeg contributed nine points and Billy Halter eight.

The Falcons shot only 10-24 from the line but the Pioneers only attempted five free throws, making just two. The Falcons shot 42 percent from the field and the Pioneers 40.

The Falcons (19-6, 12-4 WIAC) have won 17 of their last 19 games and will host a first round playoff game, most likely against UW-Eau Claire. The Falcons beat the Blugolds both times they met this season. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m.