OMAHA, Neb. - Western Illinois women's basketball picked up a road victory Monday night, defeating Omaha 57-54 at Baxter Arena to improve to 2-1 on the season.

The Leathernecks battled through a back-and-forth first half, trailing 27-20 at the break. Omaha held a narrow 10-9 advantage after the opening quarter before extending its lead in the second, outscoring Western Illinois 17-11.

Western Illinois responded coming out of halftime, putting together its best offensive quarter of the night. The Leathernecks scored 26 points in the third quarter, shooting 7-of-13 from the field and going 11-of-12 from the free-throw line. The defensive effort also limited Omaha to just nine points in the period, allowing Western Illinois to take a 46-36 lead into the fourth.

Omaha made a push in the final quarter, scoring 18 points and attempting to close the gap, but Western Illinois held on down the stretch to secure the three-point victory.

Mia Nicastro and Madison Davis led the Leathernecks with 18 points apiece. Nicastro added eight rebounds, three assists and a steal while playing 39 minutes. Davis finished 7-of-11 from the field, including 2-of-3 from beyond the arc, and pulled down nine rebounds.

Kaylen Reed added eight points, five assists and three steals. Kennedy Herrig contributed seven points, three rebounds, two steals and a block off the bench.

Western Illinois finished the night shooting 37.5% from the field and 91.7% from the free-throw line, converting 11-of-12 attempts. The Leathernecks also held Omaha to 32.3% shooting from the floor.

The win moves Western Illinois to 2-1 on the season as the Leathernecks continue their early-season schedule.
 

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#8 VANDERBILT 102, MOREHEAD STATE 50
NASHVILLE - Recap coming soon.