MACOMB, IL - Western Illinois men's basketball fell on the road Saturday afternoon, dropping an 86–79 decision to Little Rock at the Jack Stephens Center.

The Leathernecks kept pace early, trailing just 50–41 at halftime after shooting 45.7 percent from the field in the opening half. Western Illinois continued to battle in the second half and pulled within striking distance on multiple occasions, but Little Rock's efficiency from three point range and perfect performance at the free throw line proved to be the difference.

Isaiah Griffin led all scorers with 28 points, finishing 9 of 21 from the field and knocking down three three pointers. Lucas Lorenzen added 20 points on 8 of 16 shooting, while Karyiek Dixon recorded a double double with 11 points and a game high 13 rebounds to anchor the interior.

The Leathernecks shot 43.9 percent from the floor and scored 40 points in the paint, matching Little Rock's physicality inside. Western Illinois also won the rebounding battle 42–32 and scored 12 second chance points, keeping the game competitive throughout the afternoon. Ifiok Peter provided a spark off the bench with 12 points on 5 of 7 shooting.

Little Rock was led by Cameron Wallace with 21 points, while Johnathan Lawson added 20 points, including six three pointers. The Trojans shot 45.8 percent from beyond the arc and went a perfect 15 of 15 at the free throw line, capitalizing on key opportunities down the stretch.

Western Illinois moves to 4–15 overall and 0–8 in Ohio Valley Conference play, while Little Rock improves to 9–10 overall and 6–2 in the league. The Leathernecks will continue conference action next week as they continue their search for a conference win.

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