Illinois Springfield men's basketball (15-7, 11-3 GLVC) fell to McKendree (18-4, 11-3 GLVC) 77-69 on Saturday night at the Harry M. Statham Sports Center. Despite matching McKendree with 42 points in the second half, Ill. Springfield could not overcome the eight-point deficit from the first half. 

UIS began the game with intensity, keeping pace with McKendree through multiple lead changes and ties. Britton Dutton's contributions were significant, scoring a layup at 16:19 and a three-pointer at 17:25, helping the Prairie Stars maintain momentum early on. However, the Bearcats managed to pull ahead with a surge midway through the half. The first half concluded with McKendree leading 35-27.

UIS worked to close the gap in the second half, getting early layups from Tye Banks while consistent scoring from Jordan Rice and Dutton kept the Prairie Stars within reach. Despite the effort, the Prairie Stars were unable to cut into the eight-point deficit, matching McKendree's scoring in the second half. McKendree went on to win 77-69. This result has now led to a three-way tie at 11-3 at the top of the GLVC standings.

Rice led the team with 26 points and three assists. Dutton contributed 22 points on nine made field goals, Isaiah Davis added three steals, and Banks finished with eight points and six rebounds.

The Prairie Stars have a record of 15-7 overall and 11-3 in the GLVC. McKendree holds an 18-4 overall record and is also 11-3 in GLVC competition. 

Up Next
The Prairie Stars are back on the road Tuesday with a trip to Missouri S&T in Rolla, Mo., making up a weather-postponed contest from January. UIS will be off Thursday before traveling to UIndy on Saturday for its second matchup of the season with the Greyhounds.


Game Notes:
- The GLVC Point Rating System (PRS) was released for the first time this season after the game. UIS has a rating of 4.0, while Rockhurst, William Jewell, and McKendree chase.