McLean County Times

Illinois State women's basketball team secured a comeback victory over Indiana State with an 85-77 win at the Hulman Center. The Redbirds, now holding a 15-9 overall record and 9-4 in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC), had five players scoring in double figures.

Shannon Dowell led Illinois State with 19 points, seven rebounds, and five assists. She also contributed two steals, scoring 11 of her points in the second half. Nevaeh Thomas and Addison Martin were instrumental in the post, both reaching double figures. Thomas scored 12 of her 19 points in the second half and added five rebounds and five assists while shooting 61.5% from the field. Martin recorded 14 points, six rebounds, and five assists.

Elyce Knudsen scored 13 points with three three-pointers, while Maya Wong added 11 points with two long-range shots. Trista Fayta contributed eight points, four rebounds, two assists, and two steals off the bench.

Trailing by two at halftime, Illinois State used a strong third-quarter run to take control of the game. A decisive moment came when Thomas scored four consecutive points during a run that gave Illinois State a lead they maintained for the rest of the game. The Redbirds extended their advantage to as much as fifteen before securing their victory.

Graduate player Maya Wong set a program record by appearing in her 146th career game for Illinois State, surpassing Nicolle Lewis's previous record.

The Redbirds shot an impressive 56.1% from the field and matched their season-high with nine three-pointers made on eighteen attempts. They also recorded twenty-three assists during the game.

For more information about Illinois State sports events or merchandise, visit GoRedbirds.com or use the Illinois State Redbirds App.