"SIUE Basketball's Struggle and Comeback in OVC Opener"
History of the Game
The Cougars started the game with a 7-5 overall record, while Little Rock entered with a similar 7-5 standing. Little Rock took control in the first half with a 16-2 run, building an eight-point lead at 30-22. SIUE fought back early in the second half, with Desmond Polk's layup cutting the lead to 35-31. However, Little Rock responded with a 9-0 run, stretching their lead to 44-31 with 13:19 remaining. The Cougars didn't get back within four until the 2:25 mark thanks to a Ring Malith jumper. Little Rock extended their lead again and led by nine (57-48) with 1:03 left. Desmond Polk's three-pointer cut the lead to six, but a Little Rock free throw made it seven. Ray’Sean Taylor was fouled shooting a three and made all three free throws to cut the lead to 58-54. Another free throw by the Trojans made it a five-point game, but Taylor was fouled again and sank both free throws with nine seconds left. Tuongthach Gatkek missed a free throw on the next possession, giving Brian Taylor II a chance to rebound and set up Ray’Sean Taylor for a three from the top of the key. After review, the ball was determined not to be tipped, turning it over to Little Rock instead. The Cougars forced a timeout when Little Rock couldn't get the ball in bounds initially. After successfully inbounding the second time, Ante Belijan was fouled and hit one of two free throws for the final margin.
Ray’Sean Taylor led SIUE with 18 points on three three-pointers and a nine-for-nine performance at the free throw line. Brian Taylor II followed with 12 points and a team-high eight rebounds. Malith, Polk and Arnas Sakenis each scored seven points. SIUE struggled with their shooting, connecting on just 32 percent (19-59) of their shots overall and 8 of 28 from three-point range. Mwani Wilkinson scored 16 points to lead Little Rock, while Jonathan Lawson added 12 points and 10 rebounds. The Trojans outrebounded SIUE 41-39 in the game. SIUE, known for their assist-to-turnover ratio in the OVC, turned the ball over 14 times while recording just eight assists.
Upcoming Game at Southeast Missouri
After this intense battle, the Cougars will now travel to Southeast Missouri for a 3:45 game against the Redhawks. This will be another crucial test for the team as they look to bounce back and continue their season on a positive note. The players will be eager to showcase their skills and improve on their performance from the previous game. Southeast Missouri will present a different challenge, and the SIUE team will need to be at their best to come away with a win.