EVANSVILLE, IN- Western Illinois Women's Basketball put up a fight behind a dominant scoring display from Raegan McCowan, but Lindenwood's balanced attack proved too much as the Leathernecks fell 86-75 at the Ford Center on Friday.
McCowan was nothing short of electric, torching Lindenwood's defense for 35 points on 13-of-27 shooting, including 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. The sophomore guard showcased her full offensive arsenal, knocking down jumpers, attacking the rim, and converting at the free-throw line (5-for-6). She also added six rebounds and a steal while playing 36 minutes.
Western Illinois came out firing, outscoring Lindenwood 19-15 in the first quarter. McCowan set the tone early, scoring the Leathernecks' first basket with a layup and drilling a three-pointer shortly after. WIU was efficient from deep, hitting four triples in the opening period, while their defense forced several tough shots from the Lions.
Lindenwood would respond in the second quarter, outscoring WIU 21-18 in the period. Despite Lindenwood's push, McCowan kept the Leathernecks in control, nailing another three and converting two free throws to help WIU take a slim 37-36 lead into halftime.
The third quarter turned into a shootout, with both teams trading baskets. McCowan continued her offensive onslaught, hitting tough jumpers and finishing through contact. WIU put up 23 points in the quarter, but Lindenwood found its rhythm offensively, scoring 25 to take a one-point lead heading into the final period.
In the fourth quarter, Lindenwood's depth and inside presence overwhelmed the Leathernecks. The Lions outscored WIU 25-15 in the final 10 minutes, capitalizing on second-chance opportunities and free throws. Turnovers and rebounding proved costly for the Leathernecks, as they were outrebounded 38-29 and committed 16 turnovers, leading to 22 points for Lindenwood. The Lions' bench also played a huge role, outscoring WIU's reserves 31-0.
Despite the loss, there were some key takeaways from tonight's contest. Mallory McDermott scored her 1,000th career point in her final game in a Leatherneck uniform finishing the game with 12 points. McCowan also set the program record for most points scored in a single season (701) and field goals made in a single season (256).
The Leathernecks finish the 2024-2025 campaign with a 16-16 record and an OVC tournament semifinal appearance in their second season in the league.
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