TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – Despite a strong defensive start from the Sycamores, hot shooting from Illinois State proved too much to overcome in the second half as the Redbirds defeated Indiana State, 74-60.
 
The Redbirds shot a scorching 17-of-24 (70.8%) from the field in the second half while improving to 4-2 (1-2) on the year while ISU shot 21-of-55 (38.2%) from the floor for the game and fell to 4-4 (1-2) on the season.
 
Jamyra McChristine was the offensive leader for the Sycamores on Thursday, tallying 19 points to go along with seven rebounds while Sommer Pitzer added 16 points on a perfect 5-of-5, including 4-of-4 from deep. The Redbirds were led by Juliunn Redmond with 18 points and four rebounds.
 
The battle of the boards went to Illinois State, ending with a 33-31 advantage while the Blue & White held the advantage while sharing the ball, recording 15 assists to the Redbirds' 13. Indiana State's defense also managed to force the Redbirds into 19 turnovers with 11 steals. Marie Hunter and Hattie Westerfeld each ended with three steals.
 
It was a strong start to the game for the Trees, holding Illinois State to just six first quarter points and 2-of-14 (14.3%) shooting. The Birds warmed-up in the second quarter, shooting 64.3%, but despite the hot shooting Indiana State only trailed by four at the half.
 
McChristine put up nine third quarter points to keep the Blue & White within striking difference at the end of the third, but a 9-2 run early in the fourth by Illinois State put the game away for good.
 
Indiana State is back in action again on Friday at 6 p.m. against Illinois State. The game will be streamed live on ESPN3.
 
 
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