By: Jack Bell; Chief Sports Editor
Photo Via: WIU Athletics
Charleston, IL: In a back and forth battle to the end, the Western Illinois Men’s Basketball team (6-4) was able to escape Eastern Illinois to continue their current four game winning streak. There were 5 ties and 7 lead changes throughout the game. The win brought the “Old Rail Splitter” axe back to Macomb, keeping it in their possession after back to back wins over the Panthers.
It was a closely contested game for the majority. The Leathernecks had four of their five starters in double figures, with Senior Guard Alec Rosner (Winona State) scoring a game 23 points, on 5-8 from beyond the arc. Rosner added a rebound and an assist. Preseason Summit League All-First Team Selection Trenton Massner added 17 points, grabbing 7 rebounds. The senior added 5 assists and 2 steals. Junior transfer Jesiah West (Southeastern CC) had 15 points, shooting 6-7 from the field and 3-3 from the free throw line. West added 9 rebounds, 4 assist, 3 steals and 6 blocks. He was a presence on both ends of the floor for Jeter and WIU. He has continued to be a big producer at the four position in his first year with WIU.
Looking ahead, the Leathernecks will host one more non-conference foe in Eureka College (1-8) on Friday, December 16th. With graduation taking place inside Western Hall, the Leathernecks will be the show on the road, making the hour and a half trip to the Quad Cities to play in the Vibrant Arena at The Mark in Moline, Illinois. Tip-off is set for 7:30, or 30 minutes after the conclusion of the WIU Women’s Game. WIU will open up conference play on Monday, December 19, as they host the North Dakota State Bison (3-9) inside Western Hall. Tip is scheduled for 6:30.
