Adelaide Street Field | Illinois State University Athletics
Adelaide Street Field | Illinois State University Athletics
Elyce Knudsen led Illinois State to a decisive victory over Valparaiso, scoring 24 points in the game held at CEFCU Arena. The win, with a final score of 90-68, marked the Redbirds' Senior Day celebration.
Knudsen's performance included six three-pointers and 18 first-half points. "Her six threes tied a career-high for the graduate student," noted the team. Shannon Dowell also contributed significantly with 19 points, including 13 in the second half, along with six rebounds and five assists.
Caroline Waite and Nevaeh Thomas added to the scoreboard, reaching double figures with Waite scoring 14 points and Thomas nearly achieving a double-double with 10 points and nine rebounds. Illinois State started strong with a 17-6 lead but faced resistance from Valparaiso before pulling away again in the second half.
The Redbirds extended their lead by outscoring Valparaiso 26-11 in the third quarter. Freshman Trista Fayta scored seven points during this period, while Dowell's contribution helped establish a substantial advantage for Illinois State.
Illinois State's defense was highlighted by Doneelah Washington's performance as she posted her 29th block of the season. The team shot an impressive 54.7% from the field and maintained dominance on rebounds with a margin of 45-26 over Valparaiso.
This victory extended Illinois State's winning streak against Valparaiso to eight games and improved their home record to 11-3 for the season.
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