MACOMB, Il – Despite encouraging offensive statistics, WIU has been either edged out, outran or shut down over their last four contests. Western dropped games against UT Martin (9-10, 5-3 OVC), Tennessee State (7-12, 3-5 OVC), Morehead State (12-7, 7-1 OVC) and Southern Indiana (8-10, 3-5 OVC).
In a hard-fought Jan. 9 loss at home to UT Martin, the ‘Necks failed to get one more big stop or hit just one more big shot to take the lead in overtime. On Jan. 11, Western couldn’t keep up with the energy and athleticism of an aggressive Tennessee State team. Then, Western traveled south to meet the Ohio Valley Conference leading Eagles of Morehead State. Western took a lead into halftime, but after shooting just 1-8 from beyond the arc in the second half, Morehead State coasted to victory, remaining undefeated on their home court. Finally, Western Illinois had made it to Evansville, Indiana for a Saturday afternoon tip at USI. Western has lived and died through the three-ball, a theme which held true Saturday. Sean Smith, Ryan Myers, and Marko Maletic combined for 11 three-point makes, with Smith tallying five of those. Despite elite scoring from their guards, Western fell again, being out-rebounded 37-27 and allowing 16 second-chance points.
Chad Boudreau has been shaking up his starting lineup slightly, seemingly looking for a balance which can highlight his team’s efficient shooting, while addressing some physicality issues down low. Kayden Carter, Tay Knox, Rodrick Payne, and Trey Deveaux have been sharing most of the frontcourt load this season, however, the ‘Necks lack a true center. Western has allowed 258 points in the paint, while scoring just 184 paint points. OVC opponents have attempted more free throws and outrebounded WIU in six of their eight conference matchups.
The Leathernecks make their return to Western Hall Thursday, Jan. 22 for a 7 p.m. game against Little Rock (11-7, 5-2 OVC) who currently ride a three game heater after a win Saturday vs. TTU. Western Illinois will follow with home games versus SEMO (10-9, 5-3 OVC), EIU (5-13, 1-6 OVC), and SIUE (12-7, 5-3 OVC). This stretch includes three of the top four teams in the OVC. WIU currently sits 10 of 12. Head to head victories against these opponents would thrust Western Illinois University up in the conference standings and into the conversation as a contenter in the upcoming OVC tournament.
