The Illinois Springfield women's basketball team dropped its home matchup against the GLVC's current top team on Saturday afternoon, falling 85-65 to Drury at TRAC. With the loss, UIS fell to 4-15 overall and 3-8 in GLVC play, while Drury improved to 14-4 overall and 10-1 in the conference.
Game Recap
- The Prairie Stars kept pace with the Panthers early, trailing 19-16 late in the first quarter. Drury shot 50% from the field in the opening frame compared to 45.5% by UIS, though the Prairie Stars outrebounded the Panthers 7-4.
- Drury turned up its defensive intensity in the second quarter, holding UIS scoreless for four minutes before the Stars pieced together four quick points. Despite the brief run, Drury built a 13-point lead late in the quarter and entered halftime ahead 39-30.
- UIS started the second half with renewed energy, shooting and defending better to cut the deficit to three points early in the third quarter. However, the Prairie Stars sent Drury to the free-throw line 12 times in the frame, allowing the Panthers to rebuild their cushion. Drury converted eight of those attempts and held a 57-47 lead heading into the final period.
- The fourth quarter saw both teams trading quick baskets, but Drury stretched its lead to 20 points late in the game. The Panthers closed strong, outscoring UIS 28-18 in the final quarter to seal the victory.
- Kayla Rice led UIS with 20 points, including three 3-pointers, and added five assists. Emari Doby chipped in 11 points, while Allysia McDaniel scored 10 and collected eight rebounds.
- UIS shot 37.5% from the field but struggled with turnovers, committing 21 compared to Drury's 12. Drury dominated inside, scoring 50 points in the paint and shooting 46.5% overall.
The Prairie Stars will look to rebound in their next GLVC matchup on Thursday against Missouri-St. Louis, looking for a season split.
Around the GLVC
Drury 85, Illinois Springfield 65
Indianapolis 70, Southwest Baptist 48
Quincy 82, Truman 69
Missouri S&T 79, McKendree 65
Lewis 78, Rockhurst 67
William Jewell 86, Upper Iowa 78
Maryville vs. Lincoln POSTPONED