The UIS women's basketball team returns home to open conference play against UMSL on Saturday at 1:00 p.m.
Illinois Springfield (0-4)
The Prairie Stars last competed on Saturday, Nov. 23, against No. 11 Union University. The eleventh-ranked Bulldogs showcased their strength early, taking control with hot shooting and maintaining their lead throughout all four quarters. Union held a 64-45 advantage at halftime, shooting 50.0% (22-for-44) from the field and 51.8% (14-of-27) from three-point range. Despite UIS shooting an impressive 65.5% (19-for-29) in the first half, they struggled to keep pace with Union's scoring rate. The Bulldogs sustained their momentum in the second half, capitalizing on turnovers and finishing with 22 three-pointers to secure a 111-81 victory.
Kayla Rice led UIS with 21 points, while Emari Doby and Diavian Mehundrew each contributed 18. Niyah Udoiwod added a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds.
This season, UIS averages 63.0 points per game, shooting 40.8% from the field and 27.0% from three-point range. The Prairie Stars also average 34.8 rebounds, 10.5 assists, and 10.8 steals per game, while shooting 65.1% from the free-throw line as a team.
Missouri - St. Louis (4-1)
The Tritons last competed on Tuesday, Nov. 26, against Purdue Northwest, securing a 66-56 road victory. Both teams struggled offensively in the first half, with UMSL limiting Purdue Northwest to just seven second-quarter points and taking a 28-17 lead into halftime. The Tritons extended their lead to 44-24 in the third quarter, their largest of the game, but Purdue Northwest responded with a 14-0 run to cut the deficit to six. UMSL answered with a timely run to regain a double-digit advantage, and they maintained their composure to close out the win as both teams traded baskets down the stretch.
This season, UMSL averages 70.8 points per game on 44.1% shooting from the field and 31.8% from three-point range. The Tritons also average 43.2 rebounds, 12.6 assists, and 7.0 steals per game while shooting 71.1% from the free-throw line.
Fan Information
UIS is proud to support the Coats for Kids coat drive, a community initiative led by Green Family Stores, Springfield Eastside Pride, and NewsChannel 20. Since 2013, this program has provided thousands of warm coats to local children in need. Fans attending Saturday's game can contribute by donating a coat to receive free admission—one adult per coat donated—and help ensure every child has a warm coat this winter. Donated coats will be distributed to local schools.
UIS will be treating all fans to free popcorn at Saturday's games as a special thank you for their support!
Women's Basketball Schedule