MACOMB, IL - Western Illinois fell 73–50 to Southeast Missouri on Saturday afternoon at the Show Me Center, dropping to 4–11 overall and 0–4 in Ohio Valley Conference play.

The Leathernecks kept the game close early, trailing 34–27 at halftime after shooting 37.5 percent from the field in the opening half. Western Illinois limited Southeast Missouri's perimeter opportunities early, holding the Redhawks to six three-point attempts before the break, but struggled to generate consistent offense.

Southeast Missouri took control in the second half, shooting 61.5 percent from the field and outscoring the Leathernecks 39–23 over the final 20 minutes. The Redhawks capitalized on turnovers and transition opportunities, finishing with 27 points off turnovers and 44 points in the paint to pull away.

Lucas Lorenzen led Western Illinois with 16 points, connecting on three three-pointers and going 7-for-8 from the free-throw line. Isaiah Griffin added 10 points, while Karyiek Dixon contributed nine points and five rebounds. The Leathernecks shot 32.6 percent from the field and 18.8 percent from beyond the arc for the game.

BJ Ward led all scorers with 23 points for Southeast Missouri, while Luke Almodovar added 13 off the bench. The Redhawks finished the game shooting 53.8 percent from the field.

Western Illinois returns home next week to host Tennessee State as the Leathernecks continue Ohio Valley Conference play.

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