Western Illinois University Leathernecks Men’s Basketball fell to Little Rock 77-58 at Western Hall on Thursday night. The team’s record moves to 5-22 overall and 1-15 in Ohio Valley Conference play, while Little Rock improves to 10-16 (7-8 OVC).
Little Rock established control early, leading by 11 points at halftime and maintaining their advantage through the second half. The Trojans shot 44.9 percent from the field and 42.1 percent from three-point range, while making seven of nine free throws after halftime.
Lucas Lorenzen led Western Illinois with a game-high 19 points, shooting 7-of-11 from the field and making four three-pointers. Isaiah Griffin contributed 11 points and six rebounds off the bench, and Antwaun Massey added eight points and five rebounds.
The Leathernecks struggled offensively, shooting 37.9 percent from the floor and converting only six of their 24 three-point attempts. They also made just eight of their 18 free throw opportunities. Little Rock held a rebounding edge at 45-32, including a significant advantage on offensive boards that led to more second-chance points.
Johnathan Lawson had a double-double for Little Rock with 13 points and 14 rebounds. Cameron Wallace and Truman Claytor IV each scored 16 points for the Trojans, whose bench contributed a total of 21 points.
Western Illinois kept the game within single digits during much of the first half but could not sustain runs or close the gap as Little Rock continued to score inside and convert perimeter shots. Turnovers were an issue for the Leathernecks as well, with ten mistakes leading to thirteen Little Rock points.
The Leathernecks will have a week off before facing USI as they continue regular season play.
Western Illinois University Leathernecks Men’s Basketball is a collegiate program competing in NCAA Division I as part of the Ohio Valley Conference. The team plays its home games in Macomb, Illinois (official website). In recent seasons, the program has demonstrated resilience amid changes in college basketball (official website).
For more information about Western Illinois University Leathernecks Men’s Basketball or updates throughout the season, visit GoLeathernecks.com or follow them on social media platforms X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.
