West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University faced a challenging game against Northern Iowa, losing 82-56 in an away match. The Leathernecks' season record now stands at 2-3. Despite the defeat, the team showed a balanced offensive effort with Marko Maletic and Trey Deveaux each contributing 15 points. Maletic showcased his shooting skills with two three-pointers, while Deveaux scored 13 of his points in the second half. Additional contributions came from Kayden Carter with eight points, and Rodrick Payne and Ryan Myers with six points each.

The team struggled with turnovers, committing 12 that led to 17 points for Northern Iowa. Overall, Western Illinois scored 28 points in the paint and had significant bench support with 36 bench points, including a combined 30 from Deveaux and Maletic.

Defensively, Western Illinois forced eight turnovers but only managed to score three points off those opportunities. Northern Iowa capitalized on their strengths by outscoring WIU both in the paint and during fast breaks. The Panthers recorded 50 points in the paint and added another 21 fast-break points compared to just two fast-break points by WIU. Northern Iowa concluded the first half on an impressive 11-0 run, leading at halftime with a score of 42-24 and maintained control throughout the game.

In the second half, WIU's bench players were pivotal as they scored all but one of the team's total of 32 second-half points. Tay Knox contributed by hitting a free throw early in the half. The Leathernecks went six for nine (66.7%) from the free-throw line during this period.

Looking ahead, Western Illinois will host Monmouth College on Thursday night at Western Hall with tip-off set for 7 p.m.

For more information about Leatherneck Basketball, fans are encouraged to visit GoLeathernecks.com or follow them on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.