MACOMB, IL — Western Illinois fell 84–64 to Coastal Carolina on Friday night at Western Hall, unable to slow down a Chanticleer offense that found its rhythm early and never let go. Coastal built its cushion in the first half behind six made threes and a 22–16 rebounding advantage, creating extra possessions that kept WIU playing from behind. The Leathernecks stayed within range by scoring 12 points in the paint and going 8-for-10 at the free-throw line, but Coastal took a 44–36 lead into the break and carried that control into the second half.

Karyiek Dixon came off the bench and delivered one of Western's strongest outings, finishing with 16 points on 7-of-9 shooting and eight rebounds. Francis Okwuosah matched him with 16 points of his own, including three makes from deep, keeping the offense steady throughout the night.

Tyran Cook added eight points and two assists, while Isaiah Griffin chipped in four points and three rebounds. Lucas Lorenzen and Makai Kvamme combined for 10 points, and Goanar Biliew added two blocks as WIU tried to battle back.

Western Illinois shot 23-of-62 from the field and finished with 15 made free throws, but Coastal's 14 threes and 27 bench points proved too much to overcome.

The Leathernecks return Sunday to take on North Dakota at Western Hall, with tipoff set for 6 p.m.

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