The Leathernecks struggled to find an offensive rhythm in the first half, managing just 21 points while turning the ball over 10 times in the opening 20 minutes. SEMO capitalized, generating easy transition opportunities and building a 14-point halftime lead at 35-21. The Leathernecks had difficulty handling SEMO's pressure, often forcing passes and committing unforced errors that stalled their offensive possessions.

Julius Rollins had an active first half but was plagued by turnovers, committing four of his seven total giveaways before the break. Trey Deveaux was the most consistent offensive weapon for WIU in the opening frame, attacking the paint and earning trips to the free-throw line.

Despite the team's struggles, Rollins and Deveaux provided bright spots. Rollins finished the night with 16 points, shooting an efficient 5-of-9 from the field and adding nine rebounds. Deveaux led WIU in scoring with a season-high 20 points, displaying versatility by knocking down a three-pointer and going 7-of-8 from the free-throw line. He also chipped in three rebounds, two assists, a steal, and a block. 

The Leathernecks showed more fight in the second half, scoring 45 points and cutting into the deficit at times, but the Redhawks always had an answer. SEMO's offense clicked in the final 20 minutes, shooting 58% from the field and knocking down eight three-pointers after halftime to prevent any chance of a WIU comeback. WIU also struggled from beyond the arc with just three made three-pointers on 13 attempts.

The loss drops Western Illinois to 10-18 overall and 4-13 in Ohio Valley Conference play, officially eliminating the Leathernecks from the Ohio Valley Conference Tournament with three games to go in the season. WIU will look to end the season strong as they will be taking on Little Rock on Saturday afternoon at 3 PM in Little Rock, Arkansas.