West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University concluded its non-conference basketball schedule with a defeat against South Dakota, losing 89-66. This result brings the Leathernecks' overall season record to 6-5.

In the first half, Western Illinois allowed 53 points but improved defensively in the second half, limiting South Dakota to 36 points. The Leathernecks managed a shooting accuracy of 40% from the field and hit 60% of their three-point attempts during the latter half.

Marko Maletic stood out for Western Illinois by scoring 24 points, including six successful three-pointers out of eight attempts. Julius Rollins contributed with 13 points and played effectively on both ends of the court. Sean Smith added another 11 points with a strong shooting performance of five out of nine from the field. Tay Knox led in rebounds for the team, securing nine in total, with six being offensive rebounds.

The Leathernecks are set to begin Ohio Valley Conference play against Tennessee Tech at Western Hall on Tuesday, December 17th, with tip-off scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

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