MACOMB, Ill- The Western Illinois Men's Basketball team came up short Thursday night, losing 62-51 to Little Rock at Western Hall. Despite standout performances from several key players, WIU's struggles with shooting efficiency and turnovers proved costly.
Sean Smith led the Leathernecks with a 16-point, seven-rebound effort, consistently attacking the paint and setting the pace for his team. Marko Maletic added 15 points, highlighted by four three-pointers, providing WIU with crucial scoring from beyond the arc. Massal Diouf made his presence felt on the boards, pulling down seven rebounds while chipping in six points.
The game began with promise for WIU, who shot 40% in the first half, keeping the contest within reach trailing 35-26 at the break. However, shooting woes plagued the Leathernecks in the second half, as they managed just 1-of-7 from the free-throw line and 20% from three-point range. While they limited Little Rock's fast-break points to just two, WIU struggled to capitalize on their own offensive opportunities, recording only two fast-break points themselves.
Turnovers loomed large in the loss, with WIU committing 12 miscues that led to seven points for the Trojans. Despite grabbiing 37 rebounds, including nine offensive boards, the Leathernecks couldn't convert second-chance opportunities effectively.
WIU (8-12, 2-7 OVC) will aim to bounce back as they will host SEMO on Saturday afternoon at 3:30 p.m.
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