MACOMB, Ill. — Chicago State University (1-4) fell to Western Illinois University (3-0), 86-75, with the Leathernecks capitalizing on 24 made free throws and 42 points in the paint.
Western Illinois took an early lead. The Cougars started the scoring with
Kyara Champagne's jumper at 7:58 to narrow the gap.
Keona McGee's layup and successful free throw brought the Cougars within striking distance at 12-8. The quarter ended with a flurry of scoring, highlighted by
Marisa Gant's three-pointer for the Cougars at 0:19, brought the Cougars within five and trailed 19-14 at the end of one.
In the second quarter,
Chloe Sisco contributed significantly for the Cougars, scoring a three-pointer at 7:09 and another at 1:05, bringing their score closer.
Brianna Hill was active defensively, recording a block and a defensive rebound early in the quarter. The Leatherneck ended the quarter leading 38-26 at the halftime break.
In the third quarter, the Cougars outscored Western Illinois 24-22.
Natalia Williams countered a Leatherneck run with a jumper at 8:41, With 3 seconds left, Williams scored a three-pointer for the Cougars which helped Chicago State put together one of their highest scoring quarters of the season trailing 60-50 after the third quarter.
In the fourth quarter, the Cougars made an early push as
Tania Allen scored a free throw and Williams added a jumper and a free throw, closing the gap to 60-54. A three-pointer from McGee, assisted by Williams, brought the Cougars within three points at 9:25. Western Illinois responded with a layup and continued to extend their lead with consistent free throw shooting, including two successful attempts. Despite efforts from the Cougars, including a layup by
Brianna Hill with one second left, Western Illinois maintained control and secured an 86-75 victory.
The Cougars had four players in double figure and were led by
Keona McGee with 16 points with 6/10 shooting and two assists.
Marisa Gant had 15 points with 7/16 shootings with three rebounds.
Natalia Williams had 11 points and
Brianna Hill finished with 10 points and five rebounds.
Kayla Mount was huge on the glass with 11 rebounds.
UP NEXT
Looking ahead, the Cougars will travel to DeKalb, Illinois, for their upcoming matchup against Northern Illinois. The game is set for Monday, Nov. 24 at 6 p.m. at the NIU Convocation Center.
