WIU (12-10, 6-7 OVC) built a comfortable advantage in the first half, holding Tennessee State (7-16, 3-10 OVC) to just 16 points in the first half. The Leathernecks' defensive intensity, paired with efficient inside scoring, allowed them to enter halftime with a 30-16 lead. Raegan McCowan led the way early, finishing the game with a dominant 22-point, 12-rebound double-double.

But the second half told a different story. The Tigers came roaring back, outscoring WIU 54-36 over the final 20 minutes, including a game-changing 30-point third quarter. Tennessee State's transition offense capitalized on WIU's turnovers, turning 24 giveaways into 22 points, a key factor in shifting the momentum.

Despite the struggles, WIU had multiple standout performances. In addition to McCowan's double-double, Addi Brownfield contributed 12 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists before fouling out in the fourth quarter. Mallory McDermott and Mia Nicastro also chipped in double-digit scoring efforts, finishing with 12 and 11 points, respectively.

Tennessee State was led by Saniah Parker's 18 points and four steals, while Somah Kamara added 17 points. The Tigers'  defense forced WIU into mistakes down the stretch, leading to a 13-4 run late in the fourth quarter that proved decisive.

The Leathernecks will look to bounce back on Saturday when they travel to Martin, Tennessee to take on UT Martin. Tip-off is set for 1 p.m.