BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — In a thrilling game, Braxton Bayless was the star for Western Kentucky, finishing with 27 points and sealing the victory with a crucial layup as the Hilltoppers narrowly edged past Louisiana Tech with a score of 64-63 on Saturday evening.

Bayless received the inbound pass, skillfully maneuvered down the court, and dodged two defenders to secure the winning shot.

For the Hilltoppers, now holding a record of 15 wins and 12 losses (6-8 Conference USA), alongside Bayless’s outstanding performance, Don McHenry contributed significantly by scoring 14 points, shooting 6 of 12 overall and hitting one out of four from three-point range. Tyrone Marshall Jr. added 13 points, making five of 13 shots from the field and one of four from beyond the arc.

On the other side, Amaree Abram was the standout for Louisiana Tech, contributing 21 points in the contest, while AJ Bates supported the team with 14 points and two steals. Daniel Batcho rounded out the effort with 10 points and two blocks, as the Bulldogs’ record fell to 18-10 (7-8 Conference USA).

Bayless shredded the Bulldogs’ defense in the second half, scoring 18 points after finishing the first half with just nine, helping his team maintain a lead and ultimately clinch victory.

Looking ahead, Western Kentucky is set to face UTEP on the road this Thursday, while Louisiana Tech will challenge Sam Houston on Saturday.