The Flames had the ball in the closing seconds but couldn't convert into a score as the final buzzer sounded, as they were defeated by the SEMO RedHawks (5-6) on the road Tuesday, 56-55.

The Flames were led offensively by Josie Filer, who finished the day with 15 points and nine rebounds. Ky Dempsey-Toney had 22 minutes off the bench, scoring 12 points grabbing seven rebounds. Jaida McCloud finished with eight points in the game.

Right from first tip, the Flames gained momentum and pushed ahead early in the first. Going 9-for-12 in the field, including eight of the 15 points Filer scored. UIC took an early lead on SEMO, 20-9.

In the second quarter, the Flames led midway going through the second quarter, until the RedHawks caught fire offensively. Capping off the end of the half on a 16-4 run on the Flames, UIC found themselves trailing for the first time in the game, 33-32.

Big factor of their strong second quarter came from their work beyond the perimeter, going seven-for-nine from three. SEMO finished the day 10-for-18 in three pointers. 

Going into the second half, the Flames continued to keep it close, but the RedHawks kept hold of their lead deep into the fourth quarter. The Flames found themselves with opportunities to regain the lead but were unable to convert.


Though not able to secure the win, the Flames had strong performances in the paint, outscoring SEMO 26-12. They also found better success in second chance points (9-3) and tied the RedHawks in bench points at 21 apiece.

The Flames complete non-conference play with an 8-3 record. After the Christmas holiday, they return back on the road to take on the Murray State Racers on Friday, December 30^th to begin Missouri Valley Conference play. Tip-off is scheduled for 6 pm.