MACOMB, Ill. - Western Illinois women's basketball used a dominant second half and a monster performance from Mia Nicastro to power past SEMO, 69–55, Thursday evening at Western Hall.

With the win, the Leathernecks improved to 17–3 overall and 9–2 in OVC play, continuing their strong push near the top of the conference standings. 

After a tightly contested first half that saw Western Illinois carry just a 30–24 lead into the break, the Leathernecks took control in the third quarter. WIU outscored SEMO 17–11 in the period, stretching the advantage to double digits behind efficient scoring in the paint and strong work on the glass. 

Nicastro was the driving force all night, finishing with a game-high 27 points on 9-of-14 shooting while going a perfect 7-for-7 at the free throw line. She also dominated the boards with 13 rebounds to record a double-double. 

Addi Brownfield provided a major boost on the perimeter, knocking down four three-pointers on her way to 16 points while pulling down 10 rebounds for a double-double of her own. 

Mallory Shetley added 10 points, while Kaylen Reed chipped in eight points and Allie Meadows contributed across the stat sheet with six points and four assists as WIU shot 45.3% from the field and 50% from three-point range as a team. 

Western Illinois controlled the interior, outrebounding SEMO 39–25 and scoring 32 points in the paint. The Leathernecks also capitalized on extra possessions, turning Redhawk turnovers into 17 points. 

SEMO made a push in the fourth quarter with a 20-point period, but the Leathernecks matched the run and never allowed the lead to dip below single digits down the stretch. 

Western Illinois returns to action Saturday as OVC play continues and they face the UT Martin Skyhawks

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