ST. PAUL, MN-  The Western Illinois Women's basketball team dropped their matchup to St. Thomas on Saturday afternoon by a score of 69-56. Raegan McCowan led the Leathernecks with 22 points, hitting 8 of her 17 field-goal attempts and 5-of-6 from the free-throw line, while adding six rebounds. Addi Brownfield contributed 12 points, including a three-pointer, and showcased defensive prowess with four steals and Mia Nicastro added 11 points and grabbed five rebounds. 

The Leathernecks trailed early, unable to overcome a strong offensive start by St. Thomas, who scored 39 points in the first half compared to WIU's 22. The Leathernecks mounted a stronger second-half effort, tallying 34 points, but it wasn't enough to close the gap. WIU committed 14 turnovers in the game and St. Thomas scored 18 points off Leatherneck miscues.

As a team, WIU shot 32.8% from the field (19-of-58) and 17.6% from beyond the arc (3-of-17). Despite their effort, the Leathernecks kept it close on the boards getting out rebounded 38-30. The Leatherneck defense recorded nine steals and four blocks but struggled to contain Jade Hill of St. Thomas, who scored 26 points.

WIU will now return home on Tuesday to start their conference season as they will host Tennessee Tech at Western Hall. Tip-off is scheduled for 5 p.m. 

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