Western Illinois University Leathernecks Women’s Basketball ended its 2025-26 season on Mar. 20 with an 82-51 defeat against North Carolina in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Carmichael Arena. This marked the program’s first appearance in the tournament since 2017.
The game was significant for Western Illinois, which finished the season with a record of 26-6 overall and a 16-4 mark in conference play. The team competed as part of the Ohio Valley Conference, according to the official website. The Leathernecks held their home games on campus in Macomb, Illinois, and functioned as an intercollegiate athletics program at the university.
During Friday’s matchup, Western Illinois struggled offensively, shooting just over 30 percent from the field and making only two three-pointers out of fifteen attempts. Mia Nicastro led her team with 21 points and nine rebounds, marking her twenty-fifth game this season scoring at least twenty points. Mallory Shetley contributed seven points while Kaylen Reed added six points and a career-high seven rebounds. Katelyn Eggena and Sidney Skrobot provided additional support off the bench.
North Carolina established control early in the game and extended its lead throughout, finishing ahead by more than thirty points. Four Tar Heels players scored in double figures, led by Nyla Harris who recorded seventeen points and twelve rebounds. Lanie Grant made four three-pointers for fifteen points as North Carolina outscored Western Illinois by a wide margin inside and won the rebounding battle.
Despite falling short in their tournament run, Western Illinois’ return to postseason play highlights a successful year for the program. The team’s nickname honors the U.S. Marine Corps, according to information from its official website.
Looking ahead, fans can follow updates about Leatherneck Women’s Basketball through GoLeathernecks.com or on social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.
