The Rob Gardner Legacy

[Anonymous]

Western Illinois Starts off the season with a New Coaching Staff

Macomb, IL (AP) - Athletic Director Tom Zielke announced today that he would be hiring Rob Gardner as head coach of the Western Illinois Lethernecks today. Just two months after AD Zielke took the job at Western Illinois he brought over his high school basketball coach from the high school he used to be athletic director at in Champaign, IL. Gardner who has never coached at the college level, signed a 3 year deal for 117,000 a year. Gardner brings with him assitant coaches Mike Sloan, who has many contacts in the Illinois area and should be good for recruiting, and Larry rodgers, who is an offensive specialist.

Gardner will take over a team that finished the 2003-2004 season with a record of 3-25, with a 1-15 record in the Mid Continent Conference. Gardner hopes to improve on that record with a moderately young team led by just two starters.

[rgardner]

CURRENT SETTINGS:

Level of Difficulty: All-Conference
Game Speed: Normal
Half Length: 10 Minutes
Sim Half Length: 20 Minutes
Free Throw Assistance: Off
Fatigue: On
Injuries: On
Clutch Factor: On
Biorhythm: On

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif
Western Illinois 2004-2005 Preseason Guide

1. 2004 - 2005 Schedule
2. 2004 - 2005 Coaching Staff
3. 2004 - 2005 Roster
4. 2004 - 2005 Season Outlook



2004 - 2005 Schedule

Nov 11-14: Coaches vs Leukemia Classic
Nov 19: @ Loyola (IL)
Nov 23: @ UCLA
Nov 27: @ Indiana
Dec 6: Evansville
Dec 8: Illinois - Chicago
Dec 12: @ Drake
Dec 21: @ Eastern Illinois
Dec 24-26: Great Northern Shootout
Dec 28: @ Notre Dame

CONFERENCE SCHEDULE

Jan 4: @ Valparaiso
Jan 8: @ Chicago St
Jan 10: Oral Roberts
Jan 13: @ IUPUI
Jan 15: UMKC
Jan 22: Valparaiso
Jan 27: @ Centenary
Jan 29: @ S. Utah
Feb 5: Oakland Union
Feb 7: IUPUI
Feb 10: @ Oral Roberts
Feb 17: @ UMKC
Feb 19: S UTAH
Feb 23: @ Oakland Union
Feb 26: Centenary
Feb 28: Chicago State

2004 - 2005 Coaching Staff

HEAD COACH: ROB GARDNER
LIFE TIME RECORD: (0-0)
PREVIOUS JOB: Judah High School Head Coach
BIO:

Rob Gardner was hired in the off season to take over the Western Illinois Leathernecks. Prior to Western Illinois, Rob coached at Judah High School for 3 years with a 52-18 overall record in 3 years of coaching.

ASSISTANT COACH: MIKE SLOAN
LIFE TIME RECORD: (0-0)
PREVIOUS JOB: Judah High School Assistant Coach

ASSISTANT COACH: LARRY RODGERS
LIFE TIME RECORD: (0-0)
PREVIOUS JOB: Judah High School Assistant Coach

2004 - 2005 Roster

#30 M. Dukes (SR - PF) 6-8 225 LBS (67 Overall)
#12 J. Udezue (SO - PG) 5-9 160 LBS (64 Overall)
#3 D. Finley (JR - PF) 6-9 200 LBS (62 Overall)
#24 B. Jordan (JR - PG) 6-0 185 LBS (61 Overall)
#44 J. Okosa (SR - PF) 6-6 215 LBS (61 Overall)
#5 A. Clement (JR - PF) 6-7 225 LBS (58 Overall)
#31 H. Coggins (SO - C) 6-9 230 LBS (55 Overall)
#10 M. Terry (FR - PG) 6-0 170 LBS (55 Overall)
#11 R. Black (SO - SG) 6-4 180 LBS (55 Overall)
#1 K. Ortiz (FR - SG) 6-4 180 LBS (55 Overall)
#2 T. Hill (FR - SF) 6-5 185 LBS (54 Overall)
#34 I. Hamilton (FR - PF) 6-8 200 LBS (54 Overall)
#2 J. Lamb (FR - C) 6-10 220 LBS (54 Overall)

2004 - 2005 Season Outlook

Expect the Leathernecks to take a little while to warm up to Coach Gardner's Philospophy. Gardner relies strongly on man to man defense and motion offense, both of which worked wonders at the high school level, but will remain to be tested at the college level. Never the less it won't take much effort to improve on the 3 wins for last seasons team. Expect Dukes to lead his team to a 10-15 record this season and a 6th place finish in the conference.

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/bsu.gif
Western Illinois(0-0) - Birmingham Southern(0-0)

California (AP) - Coach Rob Gardner will be looking to get his first college basketball win at the coaches vs leukemia classic against Birmingham Southern. If they win the Leathernecks would face the winner of the game between Fairfield and 12th ranked Mississippi State. Birmingham Southern and Western Illinois match up fairly evenly and this is the first meeting between the two teams.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) So
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Jr
SF - T. Hill (6-5) Fr
PF - J. Osoka (6-6) Sr
C - M. Dukes (6-8 ) Sr

While Birmingham South will start:

PG - M. Hellenga (6-3) So
SG - A. Terry (6-2) Jr
SF - D. Holland (6-5) Sr
PF - V. Laksa (6-9) Jr
C - C. Townes (6-11) Sr

KEY MATCHUP: Dukes vs Townes

The key matchup in this game will be between the 2 seniors Dukes for Western Illinois and Townes for Birmingham Southern. Townes is a guy who could put up some substantial numbers, especially with his size advantage. It will be important for the leathernecks to get him in foul trouble early.

[rgardner]

Western Illinois Gets win behind strong second half

Berekly, Ca (AP) - Coach Rob Gardner won his first collegiate game as head coach of the Western Illinois Leathernecks with a 46-35 win over Birmingham Southern in the first round of the Coaches vs Leukemia Classic. The game was a tale of two halves...

In the first half both teams shot a combined 30% from the field. For Western Illinois the defense of Chris Townes stifled post play holding Okosa and Dukes to just 4 points combined in the first half. For Birmingham Southern it was a matter of shot selection, as they hit just 1 of 12 three pointers. The two teams combined for just 33 points in the first half as Birmingham Southern took a 3 point edge to the locker room.

In the second half something started to click for Western Illinois. On defense they shut down Townes with double and even triple teams at times, holding him to just 2 second half points. On offense it seemed as though Western Illinois started to get the hang of the Motion Offense. With patience and precision the Leathernecks worked for open shot after open shot, then pounded it low with Okosa and Dukes. The Leathernecks went on a 16-5 run, as they pulled away for the 11 point win. After shooting just 8-22 shooting in the first half, Western Illinois came out strong in the second half connecting on 13 of 23.

Okosa and Dukes combined for 18 second half points, while Ben Jordan added 13 points for the Leathernecks. Townes finished with 11 points, 9 rebounds and 4 blocks for Birmingham Southern. Western Illinois will now face #12 Mississippi State in the second round of the Coaches vs Leukemia Classic.


Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/missst.gif
Western Illinois(1-0) - #12 Mississippi St.(1-0)

California (AP) - The Western Illinois Leathernecks will have a major challenge in their quarterfinal game of the Coaches vs Leukemia Classic against #12 Mississippi State. Western Illinois started the season off right with a 46-35 win over Birmingham Southern, and will now play probably their toughest competition all season. Mississippi State starts 4 seniors including All Conference Power Forward, John Pandov who scored 21 points in just 26 minutes against Fairfield last night.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) So
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Jr
SF - T. Hill (6-5) Fr
PF - J. Osoka (6-6) Sr
C - M. Dukes (6-8 ) Sr

While Mississippi State will start:

PG - K. Nabors (5-11) So
SG - E. Admunson (6-4) Sr
SF - C. McKowen (6-5) Sr
PF - J. Pandov (6-9) Sr
C - D. Wafer (7-0) Sr

KEY MATCHUP: Okosa vs Pandov

Okosa is going to have to find some way to slow down Pandov in order to have any kind of chance in this one. Okosa scored 10 second half points to lead the leathernecks to victory last night, and is leading the team at 14 ppg.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

By some miracle they can hold Miss State to under 50 points. Considering they have two guys averaging 20+ points a game, the odds are not looking too great.

MISS STATE WINS IF:

They shoot better than 26% from the field, which is all that Birmingham Southern could muster up last night.

WIU PRESS PREDICTION:

Western Illinois 46 Miss State 67

[rgardner]

Western Illinois No match for #12 Miss State

Berekly, Ca (AP) - Going into todays game, you would have thought holding SEC All Conference PF Pandov to 9 points would have helped keep Western Illinois, but despite that the leathernecks couldn't keep it close losing 70-43 in the second round of the Coaches vs Leukemia Classic. Western Illinois committed 16 turnovers and was outrebounded 42-25 as they were no match for Mississippi State.

MSU pressed early and often, forcing Western Illinois into a tempo that was much faster than they were comfortable too. It showed in their play as a team that committed just 4 turnovers in their 1st game committed 16 today. Still coach Gardner was pleased. "I think we had a good outing at the tournament here in Cali. Alot of valuable experience was gained, and I think it will make our guys alot stronger for conference play."

One things for sure, if hard non conference games make your team tougher than Western Illinois will be well rounded by conference play. The Leathernecks still have games @ UCLA, Indiana and Notre Dame, as well as a game against Minnesota in the Great Northern Shootout.

Next up for the Leathernecks, they continue their road trip to Loyola of Illinois, where a win will be important before back to back games at UCLA and Indiana.
Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/loyolail.gif
Western Illinois(1-1) - Loyola, IL(0-0)

Macomb, IL (AP) - The Western Illinois Leathernecks road trip continues a little closer to home with a game at loyola of Illinois. The Leathernecks are looking for a big road win here to improve to 2-1 before heading to UCLA and Indiana for some very challenging games. Loyola is just a 3 point favorite at home.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) So
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Jr
SF - T. Hill (6-5) Fr
PF - J. Osoka (6-6) Sr
C - M. Dukes (6-8) Sr

While Loyola, IL will start:

PG - L. Huff (6-3) Fr
SG - J. Bean (6-2) Sr
SF - C. McCollum (6-7) So
PF - O. Stapleton (6-7) Sr
C - R. Garnett (6-11) So

LAST TIME OUT:

This is Loyola, Illinois' first game of the season. For the Western Illinois Lethernecks they return from a 70-43 loss against #12 Mississippi state in the Coaches vs Leukemia Classic.

KEY MATCHUP: Hill vs McCollum

McCollum is there best returning scorer on a team that lost 3 of its best scorers last season. If Hill can contain him, the Leathernecks should come out just fine.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

They don't turn the ball over. 16 turnovers in their game against Mississippi State led to 26 Points.

LOYOLA IL WINS IF:

They can mess up Western's Motion offense. When the motion is running smoothly, Western shoots 50% or better.

WIU PRESS PREDICTION:

Western Illinois 55 Loyola, IL 49

[rgardner]

Dukes leads Western Illinois to victory.

Chicago, IL (AP) - Matt Dukes was unstoppable scoring 24 points and pulling down 6 rebounds in a 51-46 win over Loyola, IL in chicago tonight. The game was not as close as it seemed. Western opened the second half with a 10-2 run after just leading by 1 at half time. They went on a second 10-2 run with 4 minutes left to take a 47-34 lead with 2 minutes to go. Some last minute shooting and a couple turnovers out of the press allowed Loyola to climb back in to the game but there wasn't enough time left.

Again, the motion offense worked wonders, freeing open shots, and even leading to many layups. Western shot 52% from the field from the game, the only weak spot being 0-5 from three point land. For Loyola there lone bright spot was Huff who had 12 pts and 6 assists. No one else scored in double figures in the game.

This is a huge win for Western as they improve to 2-1 before heading out to Los Angeles to face the UCLA Bruins.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

EDITORIAL: It feels good to win again.

Macomb, IL (AP) - Following Western Illinois Basketball last year was like waiting for your great grandmother to get into a car. It was long, slow, and very painful. Just when we thought it couldn't get any worse, the university hired a high school athletic director for their new AD. Along with him, a 25 year old high school basketball coach who promised to take the team to new heights this year. Of course new heights would mean nothing more standing up after a dismal 3-25 season.

Yet After 3 games there is some reason to be proud again, to dig out the purple and gold, and to wear your old Lethernecks sweatshirts from the days when you were in college, and Western Illinois was actually good, like 30 years ago... The Leathernecks are now 2-1 and are just 1 win from matching last seasons total. Although I am not over optimistic that we will get that win @ UCLA or @ Indiana in our next two games, I am looking forward to games against evansville and drake to open up our home schedule next week. It could also be possible that this team might finish in the top half of a conference that is definitely down in talent this year.

Call it a fluke, call it a mistake, call it foolish, but so far, at least for now, its working. As long as it is, I am a happy man....

Steve Bartudo - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/ucla.gif
Western Illinois(2-1) - #20 UCLA(1-0)

Los Angeles, Ca (AP) - Coach Rob Gardner will get his second chance ever at beating a ranked opponent when they face UCLA in Los Angeles tonight. In the only other meeting against a ranked opponent, Western Illinois lost 70-43 against Mississippi State. Yet this UCLA team is not the same caliber team that MSU was, and if Western Illinois can find a way to handle the two monster 7 footers in Callahan and Kann, they could be in place to pull an upset. Western will also have to face one of the best 6th men in the country in Darren Bush who had 14 pts in the UCLA win over Chicago State. UCLA played chicago state at home, escaping narrowly with a 76-75 win.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) So (5.0 PPG)
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Jr (7.0 PPG)
SF - T. Hill (6-5) Fr (2.3 PPG)
PF - J. Osoka (6-6) Sr (11.3 PPG)
C - M. Dukes (6-8) Sr (13.0 PPG)

While Mississippi State will start:

PG - M. Ike (6-6) Sr (3.0 PPG)
SG - G. Ibikunkle (6-5) Fr (19.0 PPG)
SF - B. Minoff (6-7) Sr (18.0 PPG)
PF - C. Callahan (7-0) Jr (7.0 PPG)
C - B. Kann (7-0) Jr (2.0 PPG)

KEY MATCHUP: DOWN LOW!

With 14 feet of fruity fun in the post Western Illinois will have their hands full. Still if they can box out and keep offensive rebounds to a minimum they stand a chance.

LAST TIME OUT:

Western Illinois was 51-46 winners over Loyola, IL. As for UCLA they almost were upset by Chicago State at home. A win here would make the mid-continent conference look rather impressive right now.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

UCLA plays as poorly as they did against chicago state, and Western Illinois is able to compete on the boards.

UCLA WINS IF:

They put 76 points up again. Western Illinois has yet to score over 60 points this season.

WIU PRESS PREDICTION (3-0 with predictions this season):

Western Illinois 55 UCLA 65

[rgardner]

A Valliant Effort falls short

Los Angeles, Ca (AP) - The Leathernecks did just about everything right, but ran into a team at the wrong time. UCLA was as hot as could be tonite shooting 63% from the field and 58% from 3 point range in a 66-47 win in Los Angeles tonite.

Western Illinois, stuck to their game plan and played well. They were only out rebounded by 3 boards, and held UCLA to just 4 second chance points. They hit 12 of 13 freethrows and gave up just 7 turnovers. In the end UCLA was just too athletic for the Leathernecks. Darren Bush who is arguably one of the best 6th men in the nation came off the bench to hit 5-6 from 3 point range and lead all scorers with 22 pts. Even with hands in his face he couldn't miss.

"We did all we could to stop him", Coach Gardner responded, "he wasn't going to miss if we quintuple teamed him, he is a great athlete, and he played well tonite."

Western Illinois continues to look for that elusive upset, but they won't have to wait long, they get to travel to Bloomington, IN to face the hoosiers later this week.


Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[vandnbyriver5]

tough loss, but heck, its UCLA!
good start man

[rgardner]

It's tough, I sense I am not very good at this game yet, because I see some others doing their legacy on all american, Im just on all conference. I did 2 1/2 seasons on a legacy before starting this one and Im getting better, but I find with these low caliber teams its really hard to put 60+ points on the board. If I am patient with my motion offense I can usually find open shots but when your taking 20-25 seconds each time down the court to get a shot, it makes it hard to come back if your down by 6-8, or if the other team is nailing threes. Should be good for conference play though, maybe I can get a bid in my first year. Have to remind my self Im playing with a team that was 3-25 last year!

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/indiana.gif
Western Illinois(2-2) - Indiana(0-1)

Bloomington, IN (AP) - The Western Illinois Leathernecks Continue their tough start to the season with their 5th straight game from home when they play in Bloomington today against the Indiana Hoosiers. The Leathernecks have yet to play on their home court but still have mustered a 2-2 record with their two losses coming against top 20 teams. The big upset has eluded the Leathernecks this year, but could have a good chance today. A win would help them match their win total from last season just 5 games into this season.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) So (5.7 PPG)
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Jr (6.5 PPG)
SF - T. Hill (6-5) Fr (3.2 PPG)
PF - J. Osoka (6-6) Sr (10.5 PPG)
C - M. Dukes (6-8) Sr (13.7 PPG)

While Indiana will start:

PG - D. Huffman (6-2) Jr (14.0 PPG)
SG - O. Eisentrout (6-3) Jr (19.0 PPG)
SF - R. Valdez (6-5) Fr (2.0 PPG)
PF - R. Neilke (6-9) Fr (11.0 PPG)
C - T. O'Hara (6-8) Fr (9.0 PPG)

KEY MATCHUP: Maintaining the Guards

Indiana has two strong guards in Huffman and Eisentrout. The Leathernecks will need to hold them down in order to stay in this one.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

They dominate downlow. There is not alot of experience in the big 3 at Indiana, with 2 freshmen and a juco transfer, look for Dukes and Okosa to have big games.

INDIANA WINS IF:

They want to have a decent team this season. After a loss at home against indiana state and this game today, they play #1 North Carolina, #6 Uconn, #9 Notre Dame, and $13 Kentucky. It could be a long time before they get their first win without a win today.


WIU PRESS PREDICTION (4-0 this season):

Western Illinois 56 Indiana 53

[rgardner]

Bench plays strong but not enough

Bloomington, IL(AP) - Western Illinois got a huge spark from their bench when they needed it most but it wasn't enough to outlast Indiana as they lost 48-55 in Bloomington. Finley put 8 points up off the bench, and Black hit a huge 3 to stop an Indiana run, but it wasn't enough to overcome a struggling Dukes and Okosa who shot just 7-17 from the field.

For most of the game Indiana held a small lead before extending the lead to 9 with 2 minutes to go. Western Illinois responded with a 6-0 run to cut it to 3. With 45 seconds left Eisentrout threw up a desperation 3 before the shot clock expired but Indiana got the offensive rebound and put it back up for 2 and a foul. The two Indiana guards scored 33 points led by Eisentrout's 23.

Western Illinois falls to 2-3 but they get to return home with some more favorable games against Drake and Evansville.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/evan.gif
Western Illinois(2-3) - Evansville(2-3)

Macomb, IL (AP) - The Western Illinois Leathernecks will play their first home game of the year as 2-3 Evansville comes to town today. The Leathernecks will again try to match last years win total with a win against Evansville. This will certainly be their best chance to get their 3rd win so far against a gutted Evansville team who lost 4 seniors last year. The Leathernecks are also expecting a sell out crowd.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) So
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Jr
SF - T. Hill (6-5) Fr
PF - J. Osoka (6-6) Sr
C - M. Dukes (6-8) Sr

While Evansville will start:

PG - K. Parham (6-4) Sr
SG - Q. Pippen (6-5) Sr
SF - M. McCants (6-0) Fr
PF - B. Clemons (6-8) So
C - E. Fitch (6-9) So

KEY MATCHUP: Dukes Vs Fitch

Dukes is really due for a good game, he has struggled from the field for the last couple games and against a week Fitch should be able to come out of his shell today.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

They want to keep selling out. There is alot of anticipation around this team, with their first game at home they need to please.

EVANSVILLE WINS IF:

They recruit a scorer before tonights game, they are only averaging 48 points a game.

WIU PRESS PREDICTION (4-1 this season):

Western Illinois 51 Evansville 43

[rgardner]

Western Illinois Blows it

Macomb, IL (AP) - Western Illinois gave the game away to Evansville today losing 53-50. Western missed 6 free throws in the final minute and hit only 11-24 as the Leathernecks blew a 9 point lead with 4 minutes to go.


Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/uic.gif
Western Illinois(2-4) - Illinois-Chicago(2-2)

California (AP) - Finley will make his first start against the Flames tonite, when the Leathernecks try to rebound from their loss at home against Evansville earlier this week.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) So
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Jr
SF - T. Hill (6-5) Fr
PF - J. Osoka (6-6) Sr
C - M. Dukes (6-8) Sr

While UIC will start:

PG - A. Emmett (6-1) So
SG - J. Petway (6-3) Sr
SF - A. Birley (6-6) Jr
PF - R. Love (6-5) Sr
C - L. Finn (6-7) So

KEY MATCHUP: Udezue Vs Emmett

Udezue oughta be able to make life miserable for Emmett, and hopefully force a lot of turnovers.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

They hit some free throws, they only shot 46% from the field in their last game.

UIC WINS IF:

They shoot better than 26% from the field, which is all that Birmingham Southern could muster up last night.

WIU PRESS PREDICTION (4-2 This season):

Western Illinois 67 UIC 61

[rgardner]

Western Illinois wins on last second shot

Macomb, IL (AP) - Alan Clement led Western Illinois with 12 points today, but it wasn't till his final shot that he led all scorers. With 2.6 seconds left, Clement's tip back put Western Illinois up for good 74-73 over the Flames of Illinois Chicago.

Western Illinois has now matched their win total from last year as they have improved to 3-4. They will now travel to drake to try and finish the week at .500.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[mike072581]

you suck ***

[vandnbyriver5]

what the heck is that about mIke? i like this legacy, its much more realistic than say, beating Uconn UNC and Illinois in the first 3 games of the year, as i've seen in a lot of legacies.

Keep it up rgardner, i like it

[rgardner]

Im also playing with one of the worst teams in the game...

[qazz22]

Keep it up man, I love your legacy, good to see someone who is play for real. Taking a lower level school, and playing on real settings trying make it up the ladder, I love your legacy, and hope you keep it up.

-side note, check out my Campbell legacy, and tell me what you think, basing my settings off yours, game settings that is. Got a tough 3-3 right now, and trying to do better.

Nice game against Ill-chi, cant wait to see the write-up on Drake, Kick some butt man, and keep up the good work.

[rgardner]

Western Illinois looks polished in solid road win

Des Moines, IA(AP) - Western Illinois played a polished flawless game defeating Drake University 56-41 on the road last night. M. Dukes scored 26 pts and Brian Jordan added 11 on 3-4 3pt shooting as the Leathernecks roasted Drake despite being a 12 pt underdog.

Drake started out the game on a 6-0 run and looked to have a clear edge over the leathernecks, but after an early timeout the Leathernecks outscored Drake 27-9 to end the half and never looked back. Drake's all-conference star guard Darius Fitch was held to just 9 pts despite averaging over 21 ppg this season.

Finley was also huge starting in his 3rd game for the leathernecks. He added 8 pts and 7 rebounds, and with his athleticism don't expect him to sit much anytime soon. Western Illinois' hard schedule has really paid off, and now will get their second hard stint of the season as they travel to Western Illinois, then Play Minnesota in the first round of the Christmas Tournament before heading to #6 Notre Dame.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/eiu.gif
Western Illinois(4-4) - Eastern Illinois(5-2)

Charleston, IL(AP) - The bragging rights game is in high form tonite as Western and Eastern square off in a cross state rivalry.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) So
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Jr
SF - D. Finley (6-5) Fr
PF - J. Osoka (6-6) Sr
C - M. Dukes (6-8) Sr

While Eastern Illinois will start:

PG - W. Faulk (6-0) Sr
SG - B. Brady (6-2) Jr
SF - Z. McKinney (6-6) Fr
PF - A. Stivers (6-5) Sr
C - R. Hendry (6-5) Sr

KEY MATCHUP: Dukes vs Hendry

Dukes should have a huge advantage over Hendry or anyone else they try to stick on him. With Dukes finding his stroke against Drake, this could get ugly.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

They get the ball downlow. Eastern Illinois doesn't have anyone over 6 ft 6 inches that can hang with our guys

EASTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

They want a decent win. They are 5-2 but have not played any competition all year.

WIU PRESS PREDICTION:

Western Illinois 61 Eastern Illinois 47

[rgardner]

Western Illinois wins Bragging Rights despite Faulk's 25

Charleston, IL(AP) - Wesley Faulk played the game of his life tonite scoring 25 pts and hitting 5 three pointers but it is the Western Illinois Leathernecks who walked away with bragging rights. Eastern had nothing to hang their head about tonite as they shot 62% from three point range and stayed with Western all game.

Dukes led Western with 17 points, and Finley who continues to add to this team added 12 points. Western Illinois was down 4 at half, but came out strong in the second half going on a 20-6 run to take a 10 point lead. But Eastern wouldn't be out done as Faulk hit two threes and Bailey followed up with another one to cut the lead to 1. Dukes hit a big shot with 42.5 to go to give Western a 4 pt lead, and Faulk missed his last 4 shots of the game as Western went on to win 51-45.

Next up for the Leathernecks is a trip to Anchorage, Alaska for the Great Northern Shootout to play the Minnesota Golden Gophers. Western Illinois improves to 5-4 on the season.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/minn.gif
Western Illinois(5-4) - Minnesota(5-2)

Anchorage, AL(AP) - The Great Northern Shootout has already had one huge surprise, and the Western Illinois Leathernecks would like to add another. Earlier in the day, High Point stunned Oklahoma with a 96-76 win. Western would like to add a second upset with a win over the Minnesota Golden Gophers.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) So
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Jr
SF - D. Finley (6-5) Fr
PF - J. Osoka (6-6) Sr
C - M. Dukes (6-8) Sr

While Minnesota will start:

PG - D. Lopez (6-3) Sr
SG - D. Pettway (6-4) Sr
SF - D. Bryan (6-5) Jr
PF - J. Lambert (6-6) Jr
C - D. French (7-0) Sr

KEYS TO TONITE'S GAME:

Minnesota already has one ugly loss on their record, an 18 point loss at home to Central Michigan. Although Minnesota does not look like a very impressive team on paper, they are laden with experience starting 3 seniors and 2 juniors. French is a monster down low and a solid shot blocker, Western Illinois will need to get him in foul trouble early.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

They can score 60 points. They have been inching that way lately, and usually their defence holds fort.

MINNESOTA WINS IF:

They want to go to the NCAA tournament. They have yet to get any solid wins, and a second upset loss would not bode well for the old NCAA Resume.

WIU PRESS PREDICTION (7-2 This season):

Western Illinois 61 Minnesota 59

The boys are playing as good as ever, this might be their best shot yet at pulling a major upset.

[rgardner]

Lopez too much for the Leathernecks

Anchorage, AL (AP) - Lopez had an on night and Dukes had a night he will never want to remember as the Leathernecks lost against Minnesota 67-47. Lopez scored 33 points while Dukes only scored 6 pts all in the second half. Dukes missed all 10 shots he took in the first half, and the Leathernecks never closed within 10 pts of the Gophers.

The Leathernecks get one more tough match against undefeated Notre Dame before starting the conference season.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

Western Illinois will be tough in conference schedule

South Bend, IN (AP) - The Western Illinois Leathernecks couldn't beat the Fighting Irish but despite losing by 7 points the Leathernecks have alot to be excited about going into the conference season:

* - The Leathernecks have lost 6 games this season, 4 against ranked opponents.

* - The Leathernecks have won 3 road or neutral games.

* - Since Finley joined the starting lineup he is averaging 12.7 ppg

* - The Leathernecks have the best strength of schedule out of anyone in the conference.

Bottom line, Western Illinois is battle tested and should be ready to make a run for the Mid-Continent Conference Championship. That is a big change from a team that was just 3-24 a year ago. Looks like Coach Gardner might be around to stay a little while longer.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/valpo.gif
W. Illinois (5-6)(0-0) - Valparaiso(4-5)(0-0)

Gary, Indiana(AP) - Valparaiso will need some help from their bench when they take on Western Illinois in the Conference Opener for both teams. Starting PF Leonardo Elsey is injured and not expected to dress for the home opener.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) So
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Jr
SF - D. Finley (6-5) Fr
PF - J. Osoka (6-6) Sr
C - M. Dukes (6-8) Sr

While Valparaiso will start:

PG - M. Ballinger (6-2) So
SG - H. Starkley (6-5) Jr
SF - B. Walton (6-6) Sr
PF - C. Jamison (6-9) So
C - A. Carney (6-10) So

KEYS TO TONITE'S GAME:

Dukes has been a streaky shooter all year. If Western Illinois is to make a championship run in the conference he really is going to have to be more consistant. Finley has taken some of the slack in picking up his scoring, and Jordan has added a 3 pt threat, but they need that downlow presence to have a chance in this league. With Valparaiso's starting PF out, maybe Dukes can take advantage early.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

They don't get hurt by Valpo's big guy downlow. Western has struggled against teams with big centers, and at 310 pounds, Carney fits the bill

VALPARAISO WINS IF:

They can contain Dukes, who has scored 10 points combined in his last two games.

WIU PRESS PREDICTION (8-3 This season):

This is no Minnesota, or Notre Dame, Western wins 53-47

[rgardner]

Lack of Defense costs Western in Conference Opener

Gary, IN(AP) - Valparaiso shot 65% in the first half and 58% for the game as they defeated Western Illinois 62-54 today. Western Illinois played well on offense and had 3 players in double figures, but could not stop valparaiso from getting open shots.

For a while it looked like Western Illinois might come back, down 43-29 they went on a 10-0 run to cut it to 43-39. But Valparaiso quickly answered with a 10-0 run of its own to put the game out of reach.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/csu.jpg
W. Illinois (5-7)(0-1) - Chicago St. (4-7)(1-0)

Chicago, IL(AP) - Western Illinois and Chicago State will be looking for their first conference wins when they square off in Chicago tonite.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) So
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Jr
SF - D. Finley (6-5) Fr
PF - J. Osoka (6-6) Sr
C - M. Dukes (6-8) Sr

While Valparaiso will start:

PG - M. Colter (6-3) Sr
SG - D. Delgato (6-2) Sr
SF - E. Gatling (6-4) Sr
PF - C. Cristy (6-8) Jr
C - M. Morris (7-1) So

KEYS TO TONITE'S GAME:

Chicago State has a monster in Marcus Morris who is 7-1. They also come with some solid guard play with colter and delgado each averaging around 12 points per game. Hoffman is injured for Chicago State and should leave a mismatch for Finley.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

They play better defense. In their last 3 losses the opponents have combined for 63% shooting percentage.

CHICAGO STATE WINS IF:

One of their guards is on fire. That has done Western in many times before.

WIU PRESS PREDICTION (8-4 This season):

We still stand by our team, Western edges Chicago St 57-55.

[rgardner]

At a loss for words...

Chicago, IL(AP) - Two weeks ago Western Illinois was 5-4 and in the midst of a 3 game winning streak. They were battle tested, had won road games, big home games, and fairly decent mid major opponents. Despite preparing for games against minnesota and Notre Dame, all thoughts at the time were that Western Illinois would be a Mid-Continent Conference Contender.

Two games into the conference schedule that would not look to be the case. For the second straight game Western Illinois dug a huge hole early trailing Chicago State by 12 at half time. Western Illinois came back to cut within one in the second half but couldn't keep up with Chicago State's guards who pummled Western for 34 points combined. Again Western Illinois allowed their opponent to shoot 60+% from the field.

"We just have to keep working on defense. Plain and simple", said Coach Gardner after the game, "When they are making twice as many shots as you are you can't win."

Western Illinois now comes home to face an 0-2 Oral Roberts to stay out of the basement of the MCC. If Western Illinois wants to make a run, it better start here. It better start now.
Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/oru.gif
W. Illinois (5-8)(0-2) - Oral Roberts (3-7)(0-2)

Macomb, IL(AP) - Western Illinois looks to snap a 4 game losing streak at home against Oral Roberts University tonite.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) So
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Jr
SF - D. Finley (6-5) Fr
PF - J. Osoka (6-6) Sr
C - M. Dukes (6-8) Sr

While Oral Roberts will start:

PG - F. Osborne (6-1) Sr
SG - R. Fitzgeralds (6-1) So
SF - T. Pritchard (6-7) Jr
PF - K. Whithers (6-7) So
C - B. Simms (6-11) Sr

KEYS TO TONITE'S GAME:

Western Illinois has got to find a way to play defense, or all the offence in the world will not help them win. Romain Fitzgerald is averaging 16 pts a game. If WIU doesn't shut him out, they will be 5-9 by the end of the night.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

They want any chance at a conference title.

ORAL ROBERTS WINS IF:

They take advantage of the height mismatch. Western comes in considerably smaller than Oral Roberts

WIU PRESS PREDICTION (8-5 This season):

Why not. Western breaks the streak tonite(we hope) 57-56

[rgardner]

Time to re-evaluate

Macomb, IL(AP) - Western Illinois lost their 5th straight game today 62-52 at home against Oral Roberts University. Oral Roberts tried to give Western Illinois the game but Western could only shoot 27% from the field, and could not win despite 18 turnovers by Oral Roberts.


Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

The Streak is broken

Bloomington, IN(AP) - Western Illinois snapped a 5 game losing streak with a 72-60 win over IUPUI. Western Illinois lost their back up small forward T.J. Hill to a separated shoulder. He is expected to be gone for 15 days. WIU improves to 6-9 and will now face UMKC at home.


Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

Western Illinois gets Embarrassed at home.

Macomb, IL(AP) - Western Illinois received their worst loss of the year losing by 42 to UMKC at home today. Not even the parents stuck around for this game as UMKC hit 14 3 pointers and Shakur and Sparks combined for 43 points. Udezue was the only one in double figures for the Leathernecks.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

Turn about is fair play...

Macomb, IL(AP) - Western Illinois got revenge on Valparaiso defeating them at home 81-74 today in Macomb. Okosa led all scorers with 17 points as western never trailed in this game. They now have improved to 7-10, while Valparaiso has fallen to 6-10.

Western Illinois next takes on Centenary on the road.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

Back to Back wins for Western Illinois

Centenary(AP) - Western Illinois has managed to put back to back wins together with a win over Centenary by 15 points on the road today. No one scored in double figures for Centenary while Dukes and Finley combined for 22 points for Western Illinois.

Western will now head to Southern Utah who is currently undefeated in the MCC.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

Western Illinois Stuns Southern Utah on the road.

Provo, UT(AP) - Western Illinois has been waiting all year for their big upset victory, and they got it tonite. Brian Jordan hit a 3 pointer with 12.2 seconds left to put Western up for good for a 73-72 win. Jordan and Finley combined for 40 points and 5 3 pointers as Western Illinois came back from 8 down at half time to stun Southern Utah. It also snaps a six game winning streak for Southern Utah, while Western Illinois improves their winning streak to 3 games for the first time since December.

Western Illinois now improves to 10-10 overall. Southern Utah falls to 10-7

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

Sorry Guys, played alot of games last week but internet was down, here is a run down of games to the tournament:

WESTERN 75 OAKLAND 64

Western won their 4th game in a row on 20 points from Jordan and 22 from Okosa.

WESTERN 56 IUPUI 85

Western Illinois' 4 game winning streak was snapped and reality set in as Western loses by 29

WESTERN 65 ORAL ROBERTS 78

Oral Roberts swept the season series agains Western Illinois

WESTERN 59 UMKC 81

UMKC again dominated from outside the arc as Western could not play good enough defense to stay in the game. The streaky LEathernecks are on a 3 game losing streak again.

WESTERN 70 S UTAH 63

Western beats Southern Utah again who has gone 2-4 since Western first beat them earlier in the season.

WESTERN 74 OAKLAND 70

Oakland hung tough in this one as Dukes battled foul trouble all game.

WESTERN 65 CENTENARY 75

Western's defense collapsed again as a hapless centenary team shot 58% from the field and hit 12 3s

WESTERN 54 CHICAGO ST 62

Western Illinois finished their regular season with a loss to Chicago State.

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/umkc.gif
#7 WIU (12-15)(7-9) - #2 UMKC(12-10)(10-6)

Mabee Center(AP) - Western Illinois hopes to keep its season alive in the first round of the MCC Conference tournament tonite.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) So
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Jr
SF - D. Finley (6-5) Fr
PF - J. Osoka (6-6) Sr
C - M. Dukes (6-8) Sr

While UMKC will start:

PG - G. Shakur (6-1) Sr
SG - G. Steele (6-2) Jr
SF - C. Sparks (6-4) So
PF - D. Gomez (6-9) Jr
C - D. Stys (6-9) Sr

KEYS TO TONITE'S GAME:

If Western wants to stay in this one past the first half they need to pound the ball down low and prevent the 3 ball from going up. Western matches up well with UMKC downlow, but they have been slaughtered from behind the arc both times they played UMKC in the past.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

They want their season to continue

UMKC WINS IF:

They get open behind the arc.

WIU PRESS PREDICTION (8-6 This season):

Bring in the recruits its time for next season WIU 56 UMKC 70

[rgardner]

Western Illinois survives UMKC in low scoring affair.

Tulsa, OK(AP) - Western Illinois kept their season alive upsetting the #2 seed UMKC 37-35 in Tulsa, OK. Western Illinois played a perfect first half slowing the ball down, taking good shots and most importantly extending the defense. UMKC did not take a 3 point attempt in the first half. But Western Illinois almost through their perfect first half away, blowing a 12 pt lead and finding themselves tied with a minute to go. But Okosa hit two big free throws in the final minute to lead Western to victory.

Western Illinois was not the only team to pul an upset, this marks the first time in conference tournament history that the top 4 seeds all fell in the first round. #9 Centenary will take on #5 IUPUI in the other semifinal while Western Illinois will try to continue its run taking on #6 Valparaiso in the 2nd round.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/valpo.gif
#7 WIU (13-15)(8-9) - #6 VALPO(12-12)(8-9)

Tulsa, OK(AP) - Western Illinois will look to keep their NCAA Tournament hopes alive in the Semi Finals against 6th seed Valparaiso today in the MCC conference tournament.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) So
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Jr
SF - D. Finley (6-5) Fr
PF - J. Osoka (6-6) Sr
C - M. Dukes (6-8) Sr

While Valparaiso will start:

PG - M. Ballinger (6-2) So
SG - H. Starkley (6-5) Jr
SF - B. Walton (6-6) Sr
PF - C. Jamison (6-9) So
C - A. Carney (6-10) So

KEYS TO TONITE'S GAME:

Each team won on their home court, this game should be dead even and come down to who wants it more.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

They can contain Ballinger who lit them up in the loss at Valparaiso

VALPARAISO WINS IF:

They can control the pace of this game and prevent Western Illinois from slowing the game down like they did against UMKC

WIU PRESS PREDICTION (8-6 This season):

We want to be wrong again... WIU 56 VALPO 67

[rgardner]

Ballinger too much for Western Illinois.

Tulsa, OK(AP) - Western Illinois wanted to be cinderella, but midnight has struck. The Leathernecks ended their season tonite with a loss against Valparaiso 68-56. Ballinger only missed one shot all game as he put down 26 for Valparaiso.

Still it was a good season for Western Illinois who finished at 13-16 for the year. They won 10 more games than last season, 7 more conference wins, and had a few upsets along the way.

Western will lose their two big guys down low, Dukes and Okosa, but Finley, Udezue, and Jordan will all be back, and better than ever. This team should improve in the offseason, and if they can land two solid downlow players with their two available scholarships, they should be back in contention next season.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

Western Illinois signs succesful recruiting class..

Maccomb, IL(AP) - Western Illinois got the two guys they wanted for their recruiting class this off season. Jim Butt signed from Indianapolis, IN as 3 star recruit. He chimes in at 6-10 and 249 lbs, averaging just over 18 ppg in high school. The biggest news came from the other signing.

Parker Winkfield, a 4 star recruit from Dubuque, IA signed for the Leathernecks today chiming in at 6-9 and 215 lbs. These two big guys should provide a solid scoring threat and some nice rebounding to go along with the wonderful 3 guard tandem of Jordan Udezue and Finley who are coming back.

Look for the Leathernecks to improve next season.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif
Western Illinois 2005-2006 Preseason Guide

1. 2005 - 2006 Schedule
2. 2005 - 2006 Coaching Staff
3. 2005 - 2006 Roster
4. 2005 - 2006 Season Outlook



2004 - 2005 Schedule

Nov 17-19: Arctic Circle Classic (VS LSU)
Nov 21: Montana
Nov 26: Portland State
Nov 29: @ Wyoming
Dec 1: E. Washington
Dec 7: @ Idaho St
Dec 10: Portland St
Dec 17: Pacific
Dec 19-21: Paradice Classic (VS UCONN)
Dec 27: @ UNLV

CONFERENCE SCHEDULE

Jan 3: @ Valparaiso
Jan 5: @ Chicago St
Jan 12: UMKC
Jan 14: S. Utah
Jan 19: @ Oral Roberts
Jan 21: @ IUPUI
Jan 26: Centenary
Jan 28: Oakland
Jan 30: Valparaiso
Feb 2: @ UMKC
Feb 4: @ S. Utah
Feb 9: IUPUI
Feb 11: Oral Roberts
Feb 16: @ Centenary
Feb 18: @ Oakland
Feb 25: Chicago State

2005 - 2006 Coaching Staff

HEAD COACH: ROB GARDNER
LIFE TIME RECORD: (14-17)
PREVIOUS JOB: Judah High School Head Coach
BIO:

In Coach Gardner's first season of coaching, he led Western Illinois to a 14-17 record, and into the semi finals of the MCC Conference Tournament. That was 11 more wins than Western got in it's previous season.

ASSISTANT COACH: MIKE SLOAN
LIFE TIME RECORD: (14-17)
PREVIOUS JOB: Judah High School Assistant Coach

ASSISTANT COACH: LARRY RODGERS
LIFE TIME RECORD: (14-7)
PREVIOUS JOB: Judah High School Assistant Coach

2005 - 2006 Roster

#42 P. Winkfield(FR - PF) 6-10 215 LBS (75 Overall)
#12 J. Udezue (JR - PG) 5-9 160 LBS (71 Overall)
#55 J. Butt (FR - C) 6-11 256 LBS (70 Overall)
#24 B. Jordan (SR - PG) 6-0 185 LBS (66 Overall)
#3 D. Finley (SR - PF) 6-9 200 LBS (65 Overall)
#5 A. Clement (SR - PF) 6-7 225 LBS (62 Overall)
#1 K. Ortiz (SO - SG) 6-4 180 LBS (62 Overall)
#10 M. Terry (SO - PG) 6-0 170 LBS (61 Overall)
#11 R. Black (JR - SG) 6-4 180 LBS (60 Overall)
#2 T. Hill (SO - SF) 6-5 185 LBS (59 Overall)
#34 I. Hamilton (SO - PF) 6-8 200 LBS (59 Overall)
#31 H. Coggins (JR - C) 6-9 230 LBS (58 Overall)
#2 J. Lamb (SO - C) 6-10 220 LBS (56 Overall)

2005 - 2006 Season Outlook

The Leathernecks had a solid recruiting class in getting a Mr. Basketball from Iowa, and some major size at center from Indiana. If the freshmen play to potential the experience at the guard play should make Western Illinois a major contender in the Mid Continent Conference this season.

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/montana.gif
Western Illinois (0-1) - Montana(0-1)

Macomb, IL(AP) - Western Illinois will play their home opener tonight against Montana University. It will be a battle of a senior laden Montana team against a talented freshman duo from Western Illinois.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) Jr
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Sr
SF - D. Finley (6-5) Sr
PF - P. Winkfield (6-10) Fr
C - J. Butt (6-11) Fr

While MONTANA will start:

PG - R. Jefferies (6-4) Sr
SG - J. Woodward (6-2) Sr
SF - N. Vargas (6-6) Jr
PF - W. Santee (6-8) Sr
C - E. Whitney (6-10) Sr

KEYS TO TONITE'S GAME:

Montana's experience is the only thing going for them. They have very little talent, with the exception of senior Guard Woodward. This could be a big night for our freshman, and as long as we can contain Woodward we should be in good shape.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

The Freshman show up and play some basketball tonite. There might be some jitters being in front of the home crowd.

LSU WINS IF:

Their four seniors can carry them to victory

WIU PRESS PREDICTION (1-0 This season):

WESTERN ILLINOIS 71 MONTANA 60. Western gets first win of the year.

[rgardner]

Western Illinois Pleases Crowd with solid home win.

Macomb, IL(AP) - Western Illinois gave the crowd everything they wanted, from highlights to a home opening win. Western Illinois defeated Montana 43-36 at home. The game was a very low scoring affair as Montana ran the shot clock down under 10 on almost every possesion.

The game was only close in the score. Western Illinois did something they have never done in school history, double their opponent in rebounds. Western outrebounded Montana 26-13. The freshman were great again this game. Jim Butt scored 12 points and pulled down 6 boards most of which were in the first half. Winkfield scored 10 points and pulled down 8 boards.

The guards for Western didn't shoot well today, but it didn't matter because the freshman picked up the slack. Another impressive note is that Western pulled down 8 offensive boards, for 8 second chance points.

Look for this team to go 2-0 against the big sky later this week when they play portland state.
Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

somehow i deleted my first game. I lost againt LSU 76-58

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/portstate.gif
Western Illinois (1-1) - Portland St.(0-1)

Macomb, IL(AP) - Western Illinois looks to go 2-0 against the Big Sky conference this year when they take on Portland State at home tonite.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) Jr
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Sr
SF - D. Finley (6-5) Sr
PF - P. Winkfield (6-10) Fr
C - J. Butt (6-11) Fr

While PORTLAND STATE will start:

PG - B. Fowler (6-2) Sr
SG - R. Clemons (6-2) Sr
SF - J. Pope (6-7) Sr
PF - J. Garnett (7-0) So
C - S. Sood (7-0) So

KEYS TO TONITE'S GAME:

Portland State plays a similar style to Montana, slow the ball down and keep the score low. They start two 7 footers, but they are very slow and don't shoot the ball well. Still they could give some trouble to our front court. Clemons is playing with a busted ankle for PSU, so his play will be limited.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

They can continue to dominate on the boards. Rebounding just didn't happen last year, this year it is a trend we want to see continue.

PORTLAND STATE WINS IF:

They can get us in foul trouble. Not likely though. In 2 games no one has picked up more than 3 fouls.

WIU PRESS PREDICTION (2-0 This season):

WESTERN ILLINOIS 55 PORTLAND ST 46. Western will get off to a good start this season.

[rgardner]

Western Illinois avoids the Fowler's Snare

Macomb, IL(AP) - Brett Fowler did everything he could for Portland State. He scored 25 points, hit 5 three pointers, dished the ball out, got offensive rebounds, but it wasn't enough as Western Illinois prevailed 60-53. Fowler was in the zone from the very beginning, hitting 3 three pointers in the first half and 2 in the second.

But Western Illinois never trailed in this game despite being tied 12 times. Jim Butt led Western with 19 points and 6 boards. Winkfield also added 11 points and 6 boards. Jordan scored 10. Western out rebounded the opponent for their 2nd straight game.

Portland State and Western Illinois could get another shot at each other at the Idaho State Classic later this month. Western Illinois now improves to 2-1 overall. Portaland State falls to 0-2.

Mark Spitzler - Western Illinois Press

[rgardner]

http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wiu.gif VS http://www.masterleagues.com/legacy/wyoming.gif
Western Illinois (2-1) - Wyoming(1-0)

Cheyenne, WY(AP) - Western Illinois looks to get off to their best start in 7 years, when they take on the Wyoming Cowboys in Cheyenne tonite. These teams both look evenly matched on paper with both teams being rated 76 overall.

Western Illinois is expected to start the following lineup:

PG - J. Udezue (5-9) Jr
SG - B. Jordan (6-0) Sr
SF - D. Finley (6-5) Sr
PF - P. Winkfield (6-10) Fr
C - J. Butt (6-11) Fr

While Wyoming will start:

PG - T. Adams (6-6) Sr
SG - R. Brinkley (6-2) Sr
SF - B. Rowe (6-9) Jr
PF - R. Johnston (6-9) Sr
C - A. Bills (6-10) Sr

KEYS TO TONITE'S GAME:

Terrance Adams scored 19 points in their home opener against UMBC last week. Meanwhile Western gave up 25 points to a very hot Fowler. Wyoming comes in far more athletic than the Montana and Portland State teams that Western just beat at home. This one should be a close game to the end.

WESTERN ILLINOIS WINS IF:

The Forwards continue to perform for this team. Butt is averaging 15 points per Game, and Winkfield 12.3. So far they have been very consistant and everything we could have ever wanted, if they continue to play strong, western will continue to win.

WYOMING WINS IF:

They can out rebound us. We now have outrebounded our opponents this season by 7 Reb per game.

WIU PRESS PREDICTION (3-0 This season):

WESTERN ILLINOIS 61 WYOMING 58. Western wins in a squeaker.

[Anonymous]

:

Level of Difficulty: All-Conference

This suks. play on MOP