West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University’s women’s basketball team has released its 2025-26 season schedule, which includes a series of non-conference games and a full lineup of Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) matchups. The Leathernecks will begin their campaign at home against Quincy on October 28 at Western Hall.

The non-conference portion continues with games against Westminster on November 4, Northern Illinois on November 11, Chicago State on November 17, and Bradley on November 20. The month ends with an away game at Iowa on November 26.

In December, the team will host Columbia College (December 9), Omaha (December 13), and University of St. Francis (December 4). They are also scheduled to play at Drake (December 7) and Lindenwood (December 18). Their third season in the OVC begins December 12, followed by a home contest versus SIUE on December 22.

Conference play intensifies in January as Western Illinois travels to UT Martin (January 1) and SEMO (January 3), then returns home for games against Tennessee State (January 8) and Tennessee Tech (January 10). The Leathernecks will go back on the road for four consecutive games: Eastern Illinois (January 13), Little Rock (January 17), Morehead State (February 5), and Tennessee Tech again on February 7.

Home games later in the season include SEMO (January 29), UT Martin (January 31), Eastern Illinois (February 10), Little Rock (February 12), Southern Indiana (February 19), and Morehead State (February 21). The regular season concludes with an away game at SIUE on February 26 before finishing at home against Lindenwood on February 28.

The OVC Tournament is set for March 4-7 in Evansville, Indiana.

"We've put together a strong, balanced schedule to challenge our experienced team. Obviously playing Iowa will be a great experience for our players and fan base." said Western Illinois University head women's basketball coach JD Gravina. "We have a great slate of home games, including having Bradley come play in Western Hall in front of our great fans. Playing Drake on the road will also challenge our team, as they are one of the top mid major programs in the country."

Single-game tickets go on sale October 20. Season tickets are available now through several methods: online at GoLeathernecks.com/Tickets, by phone via the WIU Ticket Office at (309) 298-1190, or by visiting Western Hall in person.

Ticket options include reserved seats for $160 ($105 for faculty/staff) or general admission for $105 ($55 for faculty/staff). Combo tickets covering both men’s and women’s basketball are also available—reserved seats cost $250 while general admission is $165.

Children ages twelve and under can join Rocky's Kids Club for $25 per year. Membership offers free admission to all regular-season home football and basketball games, an exclusive t-shirt, birthday shoutouts, and invitations to special events.

Season ticket holders from last year may renew between July 31 and October 14; sales open to the general public starting August 7.