The Illinois Springfield women's basketball team came up just short in a 64-63 loss to Rockhurst on Senior Day at TRAC. Despite the defeat, seniors Saharra Murphy and Niyah Udoiwod delivered strong performances in their final game.
Game Recap
- Murphy tied the UIS single-game steals record with nine, showcasing her defensive prowess while also contributing 13 points and eight rebounds. Udoiwod was a force in the paint, recording a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds.
- The Prairie Stars came out strong, forcing early turnovers and converting on the other end. Murphy's defensive pressure set the tone, and Kayla Rice's three-pointer in the closing seconds gave UIS a 16-15 lead heading into the second quarter.
- UIS found its rhythm offensively, outscoring Rockhurst 21-13 in the period. McDaniel, Rice, and Udoiwod dominated inside, while Murphy's relentless defense continued to disrupt the Hawks' offense. The Prairie Stars took a 37-28 lead into halftime, their largest of the game.
- The Hawks came out firing in the third quarter, cutting into the UIS lead with efficient shooting. UIS responded with strong play from Rice and Murphy, keeping the Stars ahead at 57-49 entering the final frame.
- UIS struggled offensively in the final 10 minutes, managing just two field goals in the quarter. Rockhurst capitalized at the free-throw line and knocked down key shots late, eventually taking the lead in the closing seconds. UIS had a chance to win on the final possession, but the shot was blocked, sealing the 64-63 defeat.
- Kayla Rice led UIS with 16 points, while Allysia McDaniel added 11. The Prairie Stars forced 26 turnovers, scoring 25 points off Rockhurst's miscues, but struggled offensively in the fourth quarter, shooting just 18.2% in the final frame.