Bulldogs Dominate Western Illinois 108-57, Leathernecks Look to Rebound Against Hannibal-LaGrange
A dominant offensive performance by Drake University resulted in a decisive 108-57 victory over Western Illinois on Tuesday night, as the Leathernecks struggled to contain the Bulldogs’ relentless attack.
Des Moines Defeat
The game, played at the Knapp Center in Des Moines, saw Drake establish control early, posting 54 points in each half. A key factor in their success was exceptional shooting, with the Bulldogs connecting on 19 three-pointers and achieving a remarkable 69.6 percent field goal percentage. This level of efficiency proved insurmountable for Western Illinois.
Lorenzen Leads, But Falls Short
Despite the lopsided score, Lucas Lorenzen emerged as a bright spot for the Leathernecks, leading the team with 21 points. He shot 7-of-16 from the field, including three successful attempts from beyond the arc. Tyran Cook contributed seven points off the bench, while Makai Kvamme added six. However, the team’s efforts were ultimately overshadowed by Drake’s depth and precision. Western Illinois managed to force six steals and accumulate 17 bench points, but it wasn’t enough to counter the Bulldogs’ offensive firepower.
Drake’s bench proved particularly impactful, contributing a substantial 45 points to the final tally. The Bulldogs’ balanced attack saw five players score in double figures, led by Braden Appelhans with a game-high 30 points and Jaehshon Thomas with 22.
Looking Ahead: Hannibal-LaGrange Visit
With the loss, Western Illinois’ record now stands at 2-7 on the season. The Leathernecks will return to their home court on Saturday, December 6, 2025, to face Hannibal-LaGrange University at 1:00 PM. This game presents an opportunity for Western Illinois to regroup and secure a much-needed win.
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