CHICAGO– The UIC women's basketball team (12-9, 4-6 MVC) couldn't fend off Illinois State (15-5, 9-1 MVC) early Sunday evening, losing 55-42.

Josie Filer notched her third double-double of the season, leading the Flames offensively with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Jaida McCloud also netted 10 points.

COACHES COMMENT- "I thought we battled. I think we just have to figure out a way to score," Flames head coach Ashleen Bracey said. "I was really impressed with our defense and our energy."

FIRST HALF

• Right from tip-off, each team struggled to land their shot. Each shooting 30% from the field, UIC found themselves trailing, 11-10.
• The Flames went cold right at the start of the second quarter, missing all 10 of their shots in the quarter. Their lone point came from a free throw from Jaida McCloud with 43 seconds remaining in the half. UIC finished the half shooting 15% from the field.
• On the defensive side, UIC held Illinois State to a 25% percent shooting percentage in the half. That's the lowest shooting percentage the Redbirds have had in one half all season. The Redbirds led at halftime, 21-11.

SECOND HALF

•  Filer started the half strong for the Flames, scoring four of her 10 points in the first few possessions in the third quarter.
• McCloud also found her offensive stride, scoring seven of her ten points in the game in the second half.
• The Flames best quarter came in the fourth quarter, scoring 19 points.

 
The Flames return to the road this week when they take on Valparaiso (4-15, 2-8 MVC) Wednesday night. Tip-off is scheduled for 6 p.m.