By Emma Hicken, Leatherneck Athletic Communications
MACOMB, Ill.- Following Western Illinois' run to the Ohio Valley Conference Tournament championship, Mallory Shetley was named the OVC Tournament Most Valuable Player, while Mia Nicastro joined her on the All-Tournament Team after standout performances throughout the week.
Shetley led the Leathernecks offensively across the two-game stretch, totaling 45 points while shooting an efficient 20-of-28 from the field. The senior opened the tournament with a dominant 27-point performance in Western Illinois' semifinal victory over Southeast Missouri, adding five rebounds while shooting 12-of-17 from the floor. She followed that effort with 18 points on 8-of-11 shooting in the championship game against Lindenwood, helping guide the Leathernecks to the tournament title.
Nicastro also played a key role in Western Illinois' championship run and was named to the OVC All-Tournament Team after posting strong performances in both games. In the semifinal win over Southeast Missouri, Nicastro recorded 16 points and 11 rebounds for a double-double while going a perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line. She followed that with another double-double in the championship game, leading the Leathernecks with 21 points and 12 rebounds against Lindenwood.
Across the two games, Nicastro totaled 37 points and 23 rebounds, anchoring the Leathernecks in the paint while helping Western Illinois control the glass in both matchups. Her consistency on both ends of the floor played a key role in the program capturing the OVC Tournament crown.
For Shetley, the MVP honor caps off an impressive tournament performance as she delivered timely scoring and efficient shooting in both victories. Her leadership and production helped propel the Leathernecks through the semifinal and championship rounds, ultimately securing the program's conference tournament title.
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