Game Info
Western Illinois (5-15, 2-5 OVC) vs. Eastern Illinois (9-6, 3-2 OVC)
Charleston, IL | Gardella Family Court
Tues., Oct. 21 | 6:00 p.m.
Last Time Out
Western Illinois dropped a four-set battle to Eastern Illinois on Tuesday evening inside Western Hall. The Leathernecks came out strong with a 25–23 win in the opening set before the Panthers rallied to take the next three frames. Keyana Cruse led the WIU offense with 16 kills, 14 digs, and three service aces, while Ashlee Markert added 13 kills. Alysia Perez paced the attack with 27 assists, and Karlie Lane chipped in 14 digs defensively. As a team, Western Illinois finished with eight aces, four solo blocks, and hit .259 on the night.
Quick Hitters
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National Recognition: Freshman setter Jaleah Bauss continues to make waves nationally, ranking 45th in NCAA aces per set and 28th in total service aces.
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1,000 Club: Graduate Outside Hitter Keyana Cruse surpassed the 1,000 career kills mark earlier this season at the Billiken Invitational and also reached 1,000 career digs at home against Tennessee Tech.
Scouting the Panthers
Eastern Illinois enters Tuesday's contest under new leadership, with Ryan Millar taking over in his first season as head coach. The Panthers finished the 2024 campaign with a 9-19 overall record and a 5-13 mark in conference play. With several returners and new faces on the roster, EIU looks to build momentum in 2025 and climb the OVC standings.
Series History
2025 Statistical Leaders
Up Next
Western Illinois will host the Tennessee State Tigers on October 24-25, before traveling to Lindenwood to face the Lions October 31-November 1.
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