Western Illinois fell 90–68 to Tennessee State on Thursday night inside Western Hall.

The Tigers jumped out to an early advantage and led 42–28 at the break after shooting 60 percent from the field in the opening half. Tennessee State maintained control in the second half, extending the margin while finishing the night at 55.7 percent shooting overall.

Western Illinois showed improved efficiency at the free throw line after halftime, going 19-for-23 in the second half, but struggled to find a rhythm from the field. The Leathernecks finished the game shooting 38.2 percent and went 1-for-12 from three-point range.

Isaiah Griffin led Western Illinois with 14 points, knocking down eight free throws, and added seven rebounds. Antwaun Massey finished with 12 points and five rebounds, while Lucas Lorenzen chipped in 11 points. Karyiek Dixon added 10 points.

Tennessee State was led by Travis Harper II, who scored 23 points on 7-of-10 shooting, as the Tigers improved to 10-5 overall and 4-1 in OVC play. Western Illinois moves to 4-12 overall and 0-5 in conference action.

The Leathernecks look to regroup on a short turnaround as they host Tennessee Tech on Saturday.

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