West Central Reporter

The Leatherneck Women's Basketball team achieved a 94-82 victory over SIUE at Western Hall on Saturday afternoon. This win marks their third consecutive victory, improving their overall record to 12-9 and 6-6 in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC). The game was attended by 917 fans.

In the first quarter, both teams scored 23 points. However, WIU faced challenges in the second quarter, scoring only 18 points compared to SIUE's 23, resulting in a halftime score of 46-41 in favor of SIUE. The Leathernecks bounced back in the second half with a strong offensive performance, scoring 25 points in the third quarter and an impressive 28 points in the fourth quarter to secure the win.

Raegan McCowan led all scorers with 27 points and added ten rebounds for a double-double. She was effective from the field and free-throw line. Mia Nicastro also had a significant impact with her own double-double of 23 points and ten rebounds, along with three steals. Addi Brownfield contributed crucially with 15 points.

WIU's team effort included Allie Meadows providing seven assists and nine points. The team collectively grabbed 41 rebounds, including twelve offensive rebounds that led to important second-chance opportunities.

Free throws played a pivotal role as WIU made 25 out of their attempts while SIUE converted only seven out of twelve tries. WIU used its size advantage effectively by outscoring SIUE in the paint.

In the final stretch of the game, WIU outperformed SIUE by scoring them by fifteen points during the fourth quarter. Their defense was instrumental during this period as they limited SIUE's chances while capitalizing on free throws.

With this win, WIU evens its conference record as they prepare for upcoming away games against Tennessee State and UT Martin next week.

For further updates on Leatherneck Basketball activities, visit GoLeathernecks.com or follow them on social media platforms X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.