DEKALB, IL --- The Prairie Stars (5-7) concluded the 2016 portion of their schedule with a 77-62 loss at Division I opponent Northern Illinois (8-5). This game was the third and final exhibition game for the Prairie Stars after playing Northwestern University and Bradley University at the beginning of November.

Eddie Longmeyer led the way with 16 points for Illinois Springfield in their first game since December 16^th when they took on Glenville State. Longmeyer was 7-of-15 from the field and grabbed three rebounds and dished two assists in the loss.

Senior guard Paxton Harmon was the only other Prairie Star to reach double-figures, scoring 11 points on 4-of-8 from the field and grabbed a team-high seven rebounds. Zach Steinberg recorded nine points and six boards in 29 minutes while Kaj Days scored five points and also had six rebounds.

UJS took an early lead in the beginning of the game, taking a four point advantage after three minutes of play but Northern eventually grew their lead to as much as 17 in the second half.

The Prairie Stars will return home to begin their full slate of GLVC games, hosting Truman State and Quincy University on Thursday, January 5^th and Saturday, January 7^th.