West Central Reporter

The Western Illinois Men's Basketball team faced a setback on Thursday night, falling to Little Rock with a score of 62-51 at Western Hall. Despite strong performances from key players, the Leathernecks struggled with shooting efficiency and turnovers.

Sean Smith led the Leathernecks with a 16-point, seven-rebound performance, consistently attacking the paint and setting the pace for his team. Marko Maletic contributed 15 points, highlighted by four three-pointers, providing crucial scoring from beyond the arc. Massal Diouf was active on the boards, securing seven rebounds while adding six points.

The game started promisingly for WIU as they shot 40% in the first half, keeping them within reach with a 35-26 deficit at halftime. However, their shooting struggles continued in the second half, managing only 1-of-7 from the free-throw line and 20% from three-point range. While they limited Little Rock's fast-break points to just two, WIU could not capitalize on their own offensive opportunities, recording only two fast-break points themselves.

Turnovers were significant in this loss as WIU committed 12 miscues that resulted in seven points for Little Rock. Despite grabbing 37 rebounds, including nine offensive boards, the Leathernecks couldn't effectively convert second-chance opportunities.

WIU (8-12, 2-7 OVC) will look to recover when they host SEMO on Saturday afternoon at 3:30 p.m.

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