MACOMB, Ill. – Western Illinois women's basketball stayed perfect on the season with an 86–75 home win over Chicago State on Monday night inside Western Hall. The Leathernecks used a dominant inside presence, a balanced scoring effort, and a strong fourth quarter to move to a 3–0 winning streak.
Mia Nicastro powered WIU with a standout performance, finishing with 33 points and 17 rebounds on 11-of-15 shooting while going 9-of-10 at the free-throw line. Raegan McCowan added 18 points and six boards, providing consistent scoring all night. Allie Meadows and Mallory Shetley each chipped in 8–10 points, giving WIU a multi-level attack offensively.
Western led 19–14 after the opening quarter and carried a 38–26 advantage into halftime behind efficient shooting and steady defensive pressure. Chicago State surged in the third, shooting 10-for-13 from the field to trim the margin, but WIU responded with poise, outscoring the Cougars 26–25 in the final frame to secure the win.
The Leathernecks controlled the paint with 42 points inside, won the rebounding battle 36–34, and turned 17 CSU turnovers into 22 points going the other way. WIU also capitalized at the free-throw line, knocking down 24 of 32 attempts.
Chicago State was led by Keona McGee's 16 points, while Marisa Gant (15), Chloe Sisco (8), and Brianna Hill (10) helped keep the Cougars within range.
Western Illinois returns to action as they face the Bradley Braves Nov. 20 as the Leathernecks continue non-conference play looking to extend their winning streak.
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