MACOMB, IL — Western Illinois dropped a 77-58 decision to Little Rock on Thursday night (Feb. 12) inside Western Hall. The Leathernecks move to 5-22 overall and 1-15 in Ohio Valley Conference play, while the Trojans improve to 10-16 (7-8 OVC).

Little Rock shot an efficient 44.9 percent from the floor and 42.1 percent from three-point range, using a 35-24 first-half advantage to seize control early. The Trojans stretched the margin in the second half, knocking down 7-of-9 free throws after the break to secure the 19-point win.

Western Illinois was led by Lucas Lorenzen, who poured in a game-high 19 points on 7-of-11 shooting, including 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. Isaiah Griffin added 11 points and six rebounds off the bench, while Antwaun Massey chipped in eight points and five boards.

The Leathernecks struggled to find consistency offensively, finishing at 37.9 percent from the field and just 6-of-24 (25 percent) from three. Western also converted 8-of-18 attempts at the free-throw line. Little Rock controlled the glass 45-32, including a 12-5 edge on the offensive boards that led to a 14-3 advantage in second-chance points.

Johnathan Lawson recorded a double-double for the Trojans with 13 points and 14 rebounds, while Cameron Wallace and Truman Claytor IV each scored 16 to pace a balanced Little Rock attack that featured 21 bench points.

Western Illinois kept the contest within single digits midway through the first half, but the Trojans used timely perimeter shooting and interior scoring (40 points in the paint) to maintain separation. The Leathernecks were unable to generate extended runs, committing 10 turnovers that led to 13 Little Rock points.

Western Illinois will look to regroup as the regular season continues on with a week off before taking on USI.

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