MACOMB, Ill.- Western Illinois women's basketball picked up its second straight win on Sunday afternoon, outlasting Drake 80–74 inside the Knapp Center in Des Moines. The Leathernecks opened the game with sharp execution on both ends, storming out to a 25–16 first-quarter lead behind efficient shooting and active defense. WIU pushed the margin to double digits by halftime, taking a 46–26 advantage into the break after holding Drake to just two made field goals in the second quarter.
Raegan McCowan powered the Leathernecks throughout the afternoon, pouring in 25 points on 10-of-13 shooting while grabbing nine rebounds before fouling out late. Her scoring inside set the tone early, and she repeatedly answered Drake's runs with key baskets. Allie Meadows added a strong performance of her own, knocking down three triples and finishing with 15 points. Mia Nicastro contributed 14 points, and Addi Brownfield delivered a well-rounded effort with 13 points, six boards, and two steals. Kaylen Reed provided steady play at the point, scoring eight and leading WIU with six assists.
After halftime, Drake mounted a push, outscoring Western 21–12 in the third quarter and chipping the deficit down to single digits behind big performances from Grace Knutson (24 points) and Abbie Aalsma (22). The Bulldogs continued to surge in the fourth, but every time the momentum shifted, WIU found late answers at the free-throw line and on the defensive end to keep control. Western's ability to convert 21 of 26 free throws—compared to Drake's 13—proved pivotal as the Bulldogs attempted to rally.
WIU finished the day shooting 45 percent from the field and 41 percent from three, while forcing 15 turnovers and generating 12 points off those giveaways. Mallory Shetley added seven rebounds and two blocks off the bench, playing an important role in late-game minutes.
With the win, Western Illinois improves to 6–1 on the season and extends its winning streak to two games, building momentum as the Leathernecks return home next week.
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