RUSTON, La. — In a thrilling matchup on Thursday night, Louisiana Tech overcame Western Kentucky with a final score of 77-67. Daniel Batcho was a key player for the Bulldogs, contributing 18 points to the team’s effort. Batcho showcased an impressive shooting performance, going 5 for 7 from the field and netting 8 out of 14 attempts from the free-throw line.

In addition to Batcho’s standout performance, Devin Ree added to the scoreboard with 12 points, having made 3 of 7 shots and hitting 5 of 6 free throws, despite struggling from beyond the arc with just one successful three-pointer out of five tries. Jordan Crawford also chipped in 11 points, efficiently shooting 3 for 4 from the field while making 3 out of 7 attempts from the line.

On the opposing side, Don McHenry led the Hilltoppers with a game-high of 21 points and four assists. Tyrone Marshall backed him up with a solid performance, recording 13 points and grabbing eight rebounds. Enoch Kalambay also contributed with 10 points in the contest.

Louisiana Tech entered the halftime break with a narrow lead of 33-28, aided by Al Green’s contributions of eight points in the first half. After halftime, Batcho took charge and scored an impressive 14 points.

Both teams are set to return to the court on Saturday, with Louisiana Tech preparing to host Middle Tennessee, while Western Kentucky will travel to face Sam Houston.