McLean County Times

The Illinois Wesleyan University men's basketball team is set to face North Park University in their final home game of the regular season. The match will take place at the Shirk Center in Bloomington, Illinois, on Wednesday, February 19, with a tipoff scheduled for 7 p.m.

Illinois Wesleyan enters the game with a record of 19-4 overall and 11-3 in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) after a decisive victory over Millikin University. North Park aims to break a four-game losing streak and currently holds a 14-10 overall record and 9-6 in league play.

The game will be available via live stream with commentary by Eric Stock and Joel Swanson. Radio broadcasts and live stats will also be accessible through IWUsports.com.

Mason Funk recently became the seventh player in Illinois Wesleyan's history to achieve six or more steals in a single game. "Funk and Williams are the only teammates to notch six-or-more steals in the same season in program history."

In their previous encounter this season, Illinois Wesleyan defeated North Park 80-69. The Titans have historically dominated this matchup, holding a series lead of 94-36.

A win would secure Illinois Wesleyan's first 20-win season since reaching the NCAA Tournament's Elite Eight during the 2021-22 campaign. It would also mark Ron Rose's eighth 20-win season as head coach.

The Titans have already secured a top-two seed for next week's CCIW Tournament but still have an opportunity to claim the No. 1 seed if Carthage loses its remaining games.

Illinois Wesleyan boasts strong community support, averaging an attendance of 1,462 fans per home game—the second-highest average across Division III.

Senior Hakim Williams has been instrumental this season, achieving career milestones such as surpassing 200 assists. "Williams' 10 assists are the most since Luke Yoder tallied 10 against Redlands Dec. 19, 2023."

The Titans' aggressive play has resulted in frequent trips to the free throw line; they rank highly nationally for both attempts and successful conversions.

Ranked No.11 by D3hoops.com as of February 17, Illinois Wesleyan is recognized for its formidable defense and rebounding prowess. The team ranks high nationally in several defensive categories.

Under Ron Rose's leadership since his appointment as head coach, Illinois Wesleyan has claimed multiple CCIW titles and established itself as one of Division III's top programs.

Following their match against North Park, Illinois Wesleyan will conclude their regular season at Augustana College on Saturday, February 22.