West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University's women's basketball team secured a victory against Omaha on Sunday, advancing their season record to 2-0. The Leathernecks demonstrated strong performances both offensively and defensively.

Raegan McCowan was a standout player for WIU, scoring 35 points with a shooting performance of 13 out of 24. Mia Nicastro also played a crucial role by contributing 27 points, four rebounds, and six steals. Notably, McCowan's score ranks as the second highest in a single game this season at the Division One level.

The Leathernecks displayed impressive offensive skills throughout the match by making 33 out of 62 field goals and securing eight three-pointers. Allie Meadows and Mallory McDermott each added two three-pointers, while McCowan contributed three.

A significant moment came during the third quarter when WIU scored 28 points and forced five turnovers from Omaha. Nicastro led the offense with 11 points in that quarter alone. A series of strategic plays allowed WIU to take control of the game; McDermott’s three-pointer reduced Omaha's lead to one point at 63-62, followed by Nicastro’s three-pointer which gave WIU the lead at 65-63.

McCowan continued to contribute with another three-pointer and Addi Brownfield added a fast-break layup, pushing the Leathernecks' lead to 70-66 by the end of the third quarter. Kaylen Reed's jumper later in the fourth quarter increased their advantage to 81-78, eventually sealing their win with an overall score of 89-83.

Throughout this closely contested game featuring eight ties and 21 lead changes, WIU's defense played a pivotal role by forcing a total of 20 turnovers and converting these into 16 points. They also gathered 28 rebounds and scored an impressive total of 38 points in the paint. Nearly all points for WIU came from their starting lineup, who collectively scored 87 out of the team's total of 89 points. The team also showed precision from the free throw line with an accuracy rate of almost perfect, hitting on 15 out of their attempted shots.

The Leathernecks are set to return home for their next game against Kansas City on Tuesday night at Macomb. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m.

"FOLLOW THE LEATHERNECKS"

"For all the latest information on Leatherneck Basketball, please visit GoLeathernecks.com," stated a release from Western Illinois University athletics department. "For up-to-the-minute updates, follow the Leathernecks on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and Facebook."

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