LITTLE ROCK 62, WIU 51: Leathernecks’ Losing Streak Reaches Five

By JOHN BOHNENKAMP MACOMB, Ill. — The little things add up for losses, a lesson Western Illinois’ basketball team is learning a lot these days. Thursday’s 62-51 loss to Little Rock at Western Hall was the fifth consecutive for the Leathernecks (8-12 overall, 2-7 Ohio Valley Conference), who are looking at this four-game homestand as a chance to get right after their recent struggles. “We keep stringing together Ls,” guard Sean Smith said. “We have to figure out a way to turn it around.” Western Illinois missed 12 free throws, and went 4 of 18 in 3-pointers. The Leathernecks committed … Continue reading LITTLE ROCK 62, WIU 51: Leathernecks’ Losing Streak Reaches Five

LITTLE ROCK 65, WIU 60: Leathernecks Hurt By Turnovers In Home Loss

By JOHN BOHNENKAMP MACOMB, Ill. — The explanation for why Western Illinois’ women’s basketball team lost to Little Rock 65-60 on Thursday night could be found in the 24 turnovers the Leathernecks committed. The explanation of the last turnover, which came when the Leathernecks had a chance to tie the game in the final seconds, was something neither coach JD Gravina or guard Addi Brownfield could understand. The Leathernecks (9-9 overall, 3-6 Ohio Valley Conference) stayed with the Trojans (9-9, 7-2) for the entire game — Little Rock’s biggest lead was six points, and Western Illinois led by as much … Continue reading LITTLE ROCK 65, WIU 60: Leathernecks Hurt By Turnovers In Home Loss