Ryan Myers was a standout for WIU, leading the team with 19 points, including four clutch three-pointers, one of them tying the game at 74 late in the second half to send the game into overtime. Sean Smith also turned in an impressive all-around performance, tallying 17 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. Julius Rollins added 14 points and six rebounds while contributing on defense with two steals and a block. Marko Maletic chipped in 16 points, highlighted by his precision at the free-throw line, going 7-for-9.

The game was tightly contested from the start, with both teams trading leads 12 times and tying the score on 10 occasions. The Leathernecks were strong in transition, scoring 22 fast-break points and converting turnovers into 31 points. However, turnovers also proved costly for WIU, as their 17 giveaways allowed UT Martin to capitalize with 20 points off those miscues.

In overtime, the Leathernecks continued to push the pace, with Sean Smith and Ryan Myers each hitting key shots to keep the game within reach. Smth's jumper with 1:20 left in the overtime period gave the Leathernecks the lead at 80-79. UT Martin would respond with a 6-3 run to close out the game defeating the Leathernecks by a final score of 85-83 after Ryan Myers would hit a three at the buzzer to make it a two point game.

Despite the loss, Western Illinois showed heart and grit, battling through adversity and nearly pulling off the win after trailing by as many as 13 in the second half. 

WIU will now host Tennessee State on Saturday with tip-off scheduled for 3:30 p.m.