EIU women’s basketball loses first conference game of season

Han Byer

Lariah Washington (22), a senior guard gets rid of the ball after being pressured by half of the defense during the women’s basketball game against the Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville Cougars Saturday afternoon. Washington scored 13 points and had three assists. The Panthers lost 82-77. The loss was the first conference loss of the season, which ended the 13-win streak.

Kate Stevens, Assistant Sports Editor
February 11, 2023

Eastern’s women’s basketball team suffered its first conference loss of the season as SIUE defeated the Panthers 82-77 in Edwardsville Saturday afternoon.

The Panthers’ 17 turnovers were a major factor in giving up a loss to SIUE.

SIUE’s Ajulu Thatha and Mikayla Kinnard were also major factors as they put up 17 and 22 points respectively.

The Panthers knew coming into the game that Thatha was going to be a challenge to guard and keep under wraps.

Miah Monohan (3), a junior guard, dribbles past opposing defenders during the women’s basketball game against the Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville Cougars Saturday afternoon at First Community Arena. Monohan scored 13 points and had five assists. The Panthers lost 82-77. The loss was the first conference loss of the season, which ended the 13-win streak. (Han Byer)

EIU began the game with a 9-0 run and then had a 15-point lead during the 1st quarter.

The Cougars were able to close the gap as the game was 42-37 at the half with EIU leading.

The game remained close for the rest of the game, but ultimately the Cougars came out on top to hand EIU its first conference loss of the season.

Morgan Litwiller led the Panthers in scoring with 22 points. Macy McGlone had 18, and Lariah Washington and Miah Monahan both scored 13.

EIU has the week to rest and recover before taking on SEMO and Little Rock next weekend.

 

Kate Stevens can be reached at 581-2812 or kestevens2@eiu.edu