MACOMB, IL – The Western Illinois men's basketball team dropped a 67-47 decision on the road to SIUE Thursday night inside First Community Arena.

The Leathernecks (5-25, 1-18 OVC) trailed 30-23 at the break and were unable to slow the Cougars in the second half as SIUE shot 53.6 percent over the final 20 minutes to secure the win. The Cougars improved to 18-12 overall and 11-8 in Ohio Valley Conference play.

Western Illinois struggled to find consistency offensively, finishing the night 15-of-52 (28.8 percent) from the field and 10-of-23 (43.5 percent) at the free throw line. SIUE shot 49.1 percent overall and held a 43-32 advantage on the glass.

Isaiah Griffin led the Leathernecks with 13 points, knocking down 3-of-6 from beyond the arc and a perfect 4-of-4 at the line. Lucas Lorenzen added eight points and five rebounds, while Danny Stephens chipped in six points and three rebounds off the bench.

Western Illinois received 28 points from its bench unit and forced 12 SIUE turnovers, converting them into 12 points. However, the Cougars dominated the paint with a 42-14 scoring edge inside and outscored the Leathernecks 37-24 in the second half.

Western Illinois will look to finish the season with a win at home against Lindenwood.

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