Carbondale Reporter

In a closely contested game, the Southern Illinois University (SIU) women's basketball team secured a victory against Indiana State with a final score of 63-58. The Salukis improved their overall record to 3-11 and achieved their first conference win.

The decisive moment came in the fourth quarter when SIU outscored Indiana State 18-9, shooting 50% from the field while restricting the Sycamores to just 25% shooting. Gift Uchenna played a crucial role, tying for the game-high with 20 points and contributing significantly with 17 rebounds and four blocks. Alice Curman added to the effort by scoring ten points.

The game began as a defensive struggle, with SIU leading narrowly at the end of the first quarter, 12-11. Both teams struggled offensively, shooting below 30%. Uchenna led her team with seven points in this period.

Indiana State's best performance came in the second quarter, scoring 25 points and taking advantage of offensive rebounds. By halftime, they led SIU by seven points at 36-29. Despite this deficit, Uchenna remained a standout player for SIU with eleven first-half points.

SIU started its comeback in the third quarter by outscoring Indiana State 16-13 and dominating on offensive rebounds. They continued this momentum into the fourth quarter, where Isabella Palmqvist hit a critical three-pointer that gave SIU the lead late in the game.

Curman's layup under pressure extended SIU's lead to five points with only seconds remaining. Ultimately, SIU maintained control to secure their win over Indiana State by five points.

Gift Uchenna's performance marked her eighth double-double of the season, placing her among NCAA leaders.

Looking ahead, Southern Illinois will continue their road games against Evansville on Sunday at 1 p.m.

Fans can stay updated on Saluki women's basketball through social media platforms including Twitter (@SIU_WBasketball), Instagram (@SIU_WBasketball), Facebook (Facebook.com/SalukiAthletics), or via their mobile app available on major app stores.