Irvine Holds On for 82-79 Win Over Nevada
UC Irvine had a 17-point first-half lead shrink to three late in the second half but held on for an 82-79 Big West Conference victory over the University of Nevada Thursday night.
When Irvine (4-12, 2-7) missed six consecutive free throws during a four-minute span late in the second half, it appeared the Anteaters would lose their entire 17-point lead.
Keith Walker, however, made two free throws with 1:07 to play to increase Irvine’s lead to five at 76-71, and the Anteaters held on.
The victory enabled Irvine to move out of last place in the Big West ahead of Nevada (7-10, 2-8). It was Irvine Coach Rod Baker’s first conference road victory.
Forward Jeff Von Lutzow led Irvine with 24 points. Forward Eric Morris had 25 points and 12 rebounds for Nevada.
Irvine center Dee Boyer and Nevada center Ric Herrin were ejected for fighting in the second half.
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