The UIS women's basketball team celebrated its first win of the season and a milestone first victory at UIS for head coach Olivia Lett, defeating Saint Ambrose 72-44 at TRAC.
Coach Lett reflected on the game: "I thought we had some really good decision-making tonight. Our defensive intensity was strong, and we did a great job meeting them at half court. Our guards set the tone with their energy."
Game Summary
- UIS scored first, but Saint Ambrose quickly responded with a three-pointer to take an early lead. The game stayed close throughout the first quarter, with the Prairie Stars edging ahead 12-9 in what became a battle in the paint
- The Prairie Stars surged ahead with a 28-point second quarter to take a commanding 40-21 lead at halftime
- Niyah Udoiwod, who recorded a career-high 22 points, fueled the UIS offense in the second half
- Although scoring slowed in the third quarter—UIS leading 14-8—the team maintained control
- Emari Doby opened the fourth quarter with six consecutive points, helping UIS outscore Saint Ambrose 18-15 in the final frame
- The Prairie Stars capitalized on 20 forced turnovers to score 23 points, while the SAU bench contributed 17 points to test UIS
- Udoiwod's efficient 11-of-14 shooting and 22 points led the charge, while Allysia McDaniel contributed 13 points. Emari Doby and Kayla Rice each added 10 points
- UIS shot an impressive 53.3% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc, while Saint Ambrose shot 36.4% overall and just 21.4% from three-point range
The Prairie Stars will return to GLVC action this Sunday afternoon, facing UIndy in Indianapolis.