McLean County Times

In a significant matchup, the Illinois Wesleyan University men's basketball team, ranked ninth, secured an 84-68 victory over the second-ranked WashU. The game took place at the Shirk Center on Thursday night, December 19. This win improved the Titans' record to 9-1 and handed WashU its first loss of the season.

Sophomore Mason Funk contributed significantly with 20 points, matching his career-best. He also added five rebounds and two assists. Freshman Josh Fridman achieved a career-high with 18 points alongside four rebounds.

Harrison Wilmsen and Marko Anderson played key roles for Illinois Wesleyan as well. Wilmsen scored ten points and grabbed six rebounds, while Anderson added nine points and led with seven rebounds.

The Titans managed to hold WashU's offense below their usual efficiency. WashU was limited to 39.7 percent shooting from the field compared to their season average of 51.4 percent.

Illinois Wesleyan led in several statistical categories including points off turnovers (18-8) and fastbreak points (18-6). The Titans also won the rebounding battle narrowly at 38-37.

Wilmsen and Nick Roper were instrumental in giving Illinois Wesleyan an early lead. Back-to-back three-pointers from Funk helped extend this lead further.

Despite a brief comeback attempt by WashU, Illinois Wesleyan maintained control throughout both halves of the game. They ended with a comfortable margin of victory at 84-68.

Looking ahead, IWU will participate in the Cru Classic hosted by University of Mary Hardin-Baylor on December 29-30 where they will face LeTourneau University followed by UMHB.