WIU held their ground through four quarters, showcasing their offense by making 33 of 62 field goals and hitting eight three-pointers. Allie Meadows and Mallory McDermott each had two threes with McCowan adding three. Nicastro's performance, marked by key defensive plays and strong rebounding, keept WIU ahead, while McCowan's offensive consistency allowed the team to maintain a narrow lead.

The third quarter proved pivotal for WIU, as they scored 28 points in the quarter forcing 5 Omaha turnovers. Nicastro had 11 points in the quarter, including a three pointer to lead the Leatherneck offense. McDermott's three cut the Maverick lead to one at 63-62, and on the following offensive possesion, Nicastro hit a three to give WIU the lead at 65-63. McCowan would have a three and Addi Brownfield would get a fastbreak layup to put the Leathernecks up 70-66 heading to the fourth quarter, ending the quarter on an 11-5 run. Kaylen Reed would hit a jumper with 3:23 left in the game to put the Leathernecks up 81-78 and the Leathernecks wouldn't look back after that taking the game by a score of 89-83.

The game was close throughout, marked by eight ties and 21 lead changes. WIU's defense shined as they forced 20 turnovers allowing them to score 16 points off the turnovers. WIU also had 28 rebounds with 38 points coming in the paint. The starting lineup for the Leathernecks contributed to 87 of the team's 89 points. As a team ,WIU was nearly perfect from the free throw line shooting 15-16 from the charity stripe. 

The Leathernecks will now return home to take on Kansas City on Tuesday night. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. 

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