SPRINGFIELD, IL --- The Prairie Stars caught fire early in what was their first conference home game of the season, but were unable to hold on as they fell to Rockhurst 78-68. Zach Steinberg had a career night, scoring 20 points on a perfect 7-of-7 from the field, which included three three's.

In what was a close, competitive game from the opening minutes, the Prairie Stars fell to 6-9 on the season and 0-5 in the GLVC while Rockhurst improved to 7-6 and 2-3.

In the Prairie Stars first possession, Jamall Millison started the game off hitting a three before Richard Freeman made his first jumper of the night on the next possession. JJ Cravatta then drained one from deep before a Millison layup pushed the score to 10-0, forcing a timeout from the visitors. UIS hit four of their first six shots en route to the early lead.

The Hawks came back with a 12-3 run though, putting the score at 13-12 before Steinberg hit is first three of the night to stop the run.

UIS held the lead until the 4:38 mark in the first half when the Hawks took their first lead of the game at 29-28.That lead didn't last, as Bahari Amaya hit his first of three three's off the bench to regain the lead.

The Hawks regained and stretch the lead to as much as three in the first half, but a three point play from Steinberg and a free throw from Millison, closed the half at 39 all.

In the second half, the tables turned as Rockhurst came out and hit three of their first five shots, part of an 8-0 run to begin the half. A three from Paxton Harmon shut down the run and started a 9-3 run, ending with another three from Amaya.

The score would become tied again four more times before the four minute mark. Tied a 67, the Hawks benefitted from back-to-back baskets to take a four point lead before Steinberg connected on one-of-two free throws, resulting in the final points the Prairie Stars would score on the night.

UIS missed their last five shots from the field in the final 3:36 of the game as the Hawks pulled away late.

Along with Steinberg's career high 20-points, Millison added 10 points, giving him 934 for his career. Davi Austin led the way with a team high six rebounds and eight assists.

The Prairie Stars will look to bounce back on Saturday as they host William Jewell in more GLVC action. Tip-off is set for 3 pm on what is BOS/McGraw Family Day here at UIS.