Jan. 6, 2007

Box Score | Quotes

CHICAGO - Loyola University Chicago (11-5, 3-1 Horizon) shot 65 percent from the field and got a balanced scoring attack in an 87-74 victory over UW-Milwaukee (4-13, 1-3 Horizon) this afternoon at the Gentile Center. The victory was the Ramblers' first over the Panthers since 2002 and snapped an 11-game losing streak to the three-time defending Horizon League regular-season champions. Loyola has now won 13 of its last 15 games at the Gentile Center.

UW-Milwaukee led for the opening part of the first half before J.R. Blount hit a pair of free throws to give the Ramblers a 25-24 lead with 7:37 left in the opening period. Loyola, behind the strength of 65 percent shooting and 13 points from Blake Schilb in the first half, took a 46-42 lead at the break.

Andy Polka's tip-in with 16:26 left in the game broke a 55-55 tie and put Loyola ahead for good, and after the Panthers closed to within 65-64, the Ramblers responded with a 13-0 run to open up a 78-64 lead and put the game out of reach.

Schilb, who was returning to action after suffering a dislocated finger at Youngstown State a week ago, tallied 17 points on 7 of 11 shooting, and added four assists, off the bench. Blount, a Milwaukee native, tallied 20 points, also on 7 of 11 shooting, while Leon Young totaled 17 points and nine boards. Polka registered his first career double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds and Majak Kou added 15 points for the Ramblers.

UW-Milwaukee, which drained 12 three-pointers in the contest, was led by 15 points from Avery Smith.

Loyola opens a three-game road swing when it travels to Wright State, Jan. 10.