McLean County Times

Five players from the Illinois State women's basketball team scored in double figures, and two recorded double-doubles as the Redbirds defeated Illinois Wesleyan 89-46 in an exhibition game at CEFCU Arena on Sunday.

Illinois Wesleyan took an early 8-5 lead in the first four minutes, but Illinois State responded with a 12-0 run to close out the first quarter. The Redbird defense held the Titans scoreless for over four minutes and forced five turnovers during this stretch.

Illinois Wesleyan narrowed the gap late in the second quarter with a 9-0 run, cutting Illinois State's lead to 32-20. Addison Martin ended a scoring drought for ISU by making two free throws. The Redbirds regained momentum in the third quarter, shooting 6-of-8 from the field and extending their lead to 53-26. By the end of the third quarter, Illinois State led by 28 points.

In the fourth quarter, Illinois State started strong with a 9-0 run and maintained control, shooting nearly 65 percent from the field and 60 percent from three-point range during the final period.

Illinois State capitalized on turnovers, scoring 36 points off Illinois Wesleyan's 24 turnovers and leading by as many as 43 points late in the game. After struggling from three-point range early, going just 2-for-14 in the first half, ISU improved to shoot 6-for-11 from long distance after halftime.

Bella Finnegan led all scorers with 20 points, including five three-pointers. Trysta Fata contributed a double-double with 17 points and ten assists. Nevaeh Thomas also posted a double-double with twelve points and ten rebounds. Addison Martin finished just shy of a double-double with fourteen points and nine rebounds. Doneelah Washington added ten points along with four rebounds and two blocks. Freshman Jaeden Pratt made her debut with nine points, eight rebounds, and three assists in nineteen minutes.

The Redbirds will begin their regular season on November 3 at CEFCU Arena against Dayton at 6:30 p.m.

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