Men's Basketball | 1/7/2010 9:41:43 PM

Box Score [Box score]

ELLENSBURG, Wash. - Despite four starters scoring double-figures, the Western Oregon men's basketball team was unable to earn a road victory over Central Washington, as it fell 82-70, Thursday (Jan. 7).

This was the Great Northwest Athletic Conference-opener for both teams. The win moved the Wildcats to 7-4 on the season, as the Wolves dropped to 7-5.

Mike McLaughlin paced WOU with 16 points and 10 rebounds, for his second double-double of the season. Blair Wheadon scored a game-high 17 points, while Matt Schmidt and Rico Myles each added 14.

The Wolves were hurt by a 37.7 shooting percentage and 22 turnovers, which resulted in 23 points for the Wildcats. Central Washingon's bench also outscored Western Oregon's 38-3. However, the Wolves were able to stay in the game by getting to the free throw line 29 times (18 makes) and holding a plus-five advantage on the glass (44-39).

Humberto Perez and JC Cook led the Wildcats in scoring with 12 points apiece.

The Western Oregon men's basketball team will return home on Saturday (Jan. 9), to take on No. 14 Western Washington (13-2) at 4:30 p.m.