Illinois Springfield men's basketball returns to TRAC this week for a crucial home stretch as they aim to climb into the GLVC's top eight. UIS will first face McKendree on Thursday night for its #WeAreStars Game, a special event where Prairie Stars student-athletes and staff come together to show their school spirit and support a fellow team. On Saturday, UIS takes on Maryville at 3 p.m. as part of its Black History Month recognition.
Illinois Springfield (10-11, 5-8 GLVC)
The Prairie Stars are looking to bounce back after dropping two road games last week—a 74-66 loss to UMSL and a 75-60 setback against Lincoln.
Against UMSL, UIS started hot, shooting 80% early—including 4-of-5 from three-point range—to take a 20-10 lead by the under-12 media timeout. UMSL responded, closing the gap and taking a 37-35 lead into halftime. The second half saw UIS cool off to 43.5% shooting after hitting 57.7% in the first. Despite out-rebounding UMSL 17-12 in the second half, turnovers proved costly, as UMSL held a 12-2 advantage in points off turnovers.
Against Lincoln, UIS struggled with early shooting woes but remained disciplined on defense. However, Lincoln capitalized on free-throw opportunities and turned 18 points off turnovers into a decisive edge, pulling away for a 75-60 victory.
McKendree (10-10, 7-6 GLVC)
The Bearcats pulled off back-to-back comeback wins last week, starting with a 78-76 overtime victory at Maryville. Trailing by 15, McKendree stormed back to force overtime, thanks to a buzzer-beating tip-in by senior guard Joey Niesman. The Bearcats then edged out Maryville in overtime, sealing the win with clutch free throws.
On Saturday, McKendree rallied again to defeat UMSL 68-66. After falling behind 59-49 with under eight minutes to play, the Bearcats caught fire, as Emanuel Meakes drilled three consecutive three-pointers to spark a 16-2 run. UMSL trimmed the deficit to one in the final seconds, but McKendree held on with late free throws from Niesman and sophomore Luka Mateski.
The Bearcats debuted at sixth in the GLVC PRS rankings released over the weekend.
Maryville (7-13, 3-9)
Maryville's only appearance last week was the game against McKendree, in which they lost by two despite a 24-point appearance from Luke Williams. The Saints' last win came on Jan. 11 versus William Jewell, 72-63.
Maryville is tied for 13th with Quincy in the GLVC PRS, ahead of WIlliam Jewell.
Promotions
- Thursday, Feb. 6 at 5:30 PM – #WeAreStars Game:This is an event where UIS student-athletes and athletics staff come together to show their school spirit and support a fellow team.
- Saturday, Feb. 8 at 3:00 PM – Black History Games: Join us as we celebrate Black History Month with special events and recognition throughout the game.
Follow Along
The games will be streamed live on the GLVC Sports Network, and live statistics are available for fans who would like to follow online.