Head coach Jim Molinari noted his team play during the final 20 minutes, including senior Arsenio Mims who made his first appearance since the season-opener.

"I thought we played better in the second half. Arsenio (Mims) was the difference. He's a leader at Western Illinois on campus and for us on the court," said Molinari.

Steven Crawford's dunk cut the Wildcats' deficit to 13 with 6:48 remaining, but senior Brandon Smith drained a 3-pointer starting a 16-5 run to end the game.

"I want to give Culver-Stockton credit. They came in and fought for everything, and I was impressed with how ready to play they were," stated Molinari. "Our defense was fine but not really sharp. Good defense takes shots away. I think they just missed some shots tonight."

Lander led the Leathernecks again in scoring, netting a game-high 21 points. He drained 6-of-14 field goals and was 8-of-10 at the free throw line. The senior, taking over the point guard duties with Ceola Clark III sitting out the game due to an injury, dished out six assists to only one turnover.

Houpt scored 12 of his season-high 18 points in the second half, hitting 7-of-11 field goals including 2-of-4 from long distance.

"Matt (Lander) and Jack (Houpt) are really playing well for us. They are great practice players and do a great job of preparing for every game," stated Molinari.

Tommie Tyler and Kaimarr Price shared the rebounding honors with six apiece. Western overall committed just four turnovers, two in each half, and shot 42 percent for the game. The defense forced CSC into 16 turnovers.

Crawford led the Wildcats scoring 10 points. CSC shot 31.3 percent from the field, but only 4-of-21 from long distance. The NAIA Wildcats were able to officially designate the game as an exhibition, remaining 0-8 on the year.

Western returns to action this Saturday (Dec. 11) traveling to Eastern Illinois. Tip is scheduled for 6 p.m.