MACOMB – Western Illinois women's basketball team trailed Drake all night in a 94-75 loss on Sunday, Nov. 24.
During the start of the game, WIU led 5-3 but never led again as Drake’s offense ignited. Overall it was a good game for Drake as they outscored the Leathernecks in all 4 quarters and led both teams with 26 assists. Sophomore Evan Zars impacted the game by grabbing four offensive boards in the first quarter which help open up the Leatherneck offense more. Zars also hit a driving layup to make it a one-point game and hustled back to the other side of the court to block a shot. The forward finished with 17 total boards, three away from a career-high.
The Leathernecks had a hard time cutting the lead down as both teams kept exchanging buckets. Freshman Danni Nichols cut the Drake lead to nine after a full-court sprint layup at 5:37 in the fourth quarter to make it 73-64. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough as Drake responded with a 16-3 run to close the game out. Leathernecks shot 39% from the field with just 27% from 3-point range.
Highlighted players for the Leathernecks are Olivia Kaufmann made four 3-pointers and led Western with 20 points. Season-high for Danni Nichols as she recorded 17 points along with Annabel Gratettinger who added 10 points to the scoreboard.
The Leathernecks will return home to host Elementary Day against Missouri Baptist Tuesday, Nov. 26 at 11 a.m., where over 1,000 elementary students will cheer on the Leathernecks inside Western Hall. Admission will be free for all Leatherneck fans and students.