Skyhawks Hold Off Panthers in OVC Contest
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Martin, Tennessee (2026-01-03) – UT Martin defeated Eastern Illinois 58-51 after converting 10 of 12 free throws in the final quarter, holding off multiple rallies from the Panthers. The Skyhawks secured their third Ohio Valley Conference win,while Eastern Illinois fell to 1-14 overall and remains winless in conference play.
UT Martin improved to 7-6 overall and 3-1 in the OVC, while Eastern Illinois dropped to 1-14 and 0-4 in the OVC.Kenley McCarn led all players with 21 points for UT Martin. Ava Stoller scored 16 points for Eastern Illinois, carrying the Panthers’ offence for much of the game. Eastern Illinois won the rebounding battle 44-40, but it wasn’t enough to overcome UT Martin’s late-game free throw shooting.
The Game
UT Martin led by as many as 15 points in the third quarter, but Eastern illinois responded with a 7-0 run sparked by baskets from Clara Glad and a 3-pointer from Ava Stoller. Stoller led the Panthers’ offense with 16 points,including 10 in the first half.
The Skyhawks led 40-30 after three quarters. EIU continued to fight back in the fourth, with Ella Lune scoring five straight points to cut the UTM lead to 44-40 with 6:49 remaining. Meioshe Mason then scored, bringing the Panthers within two points – one of two instances in the quarter where EIU closed the gap to that margin.
Lune finished with nine points and a steal late in the game, while Mason nearly recorded a double-double with nine points and 13 rebounds. Sydney-James Desroches also contributed with 10 rebounds as EIU won the battle on the glass,44-40.
Free Throws Seal the Victory
UT Martin closed the game strong at the free throw line,making 10 of 12 attempts in the fourth quarter and converting 23 of 31 free throws overall.Kenley McCarn led the Skyhawks with 21 points, while Zy Thompson added 14 and Brittni Wells contributed 10.
Why It Matters
This win is significant for UT Martin as it solidifies their position in the OVC standings. Their ability to close out games at the free-throw line proved crucial against a determined eastern Illinois team. Eastern Illinois, despite a valiant effort and dominance on the boards, continues to struggle with consistent scoring. The Panthers, under first-year head coach Matt Bollweg, are searching for answers to turn their season around. The Skyhawks’ victory was a team effort, highlighted by McCarn’s scoring and the overall efficiency from the charity stripe. The game showcased a clear contrast in late-game execution, with UT Martin capitalizing on opportunities while Eastern Illinois faltered.
