
By ISU Sports Information
NORMAL, Ill. – Illinois State fell short against the George Mason Patriots 56-37 on Wednesday.
How It Happened
Redbirds opened the game as Paige Saylor stole the ball and took off on a fast-break and was good for two. George Mason was unable to answer and the Redbirds pulled ahead. Saylor connected with Hannah Green for a jump shot and the Redbirds took off on a 4-0 lead. Nicole Cardano-Hillary responded with a three-pointer and the game was on. The teams tied once in the first, but Redbirds would end the first quarter ahead 15-12.
George Mason opened the second quarter with a seven-point streak to pull ahead 19-15. Coach Gillespie called a timeout and the Redbirds looked to reset. Connecticut transfer Natalie Butler found her rhythm in the second quarter as she added seven points. Redbirds were unable to overcome the deficit and trailed at halftime 29-22.
Redbirds faced difficulty on offense in the second half and were only able to score 15 points. George Mason took advantage and pushed ahead to secure 56-37 victory.
Inside the Box Score
- Hannah Green added a double-double for the Redbirds with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Green went 2-for-5 at the three-point line.
- Megan Talbot added 12 points for the Redbirds.
- George Mason had 13 attempts at the free-throw line compared to ISU’s four.
- Natalie Butler led the Patriots with a double-double with 13 points and 15 rebounds.
- Three Patriots scored in double digits.
Stat of the Game.
This is the first time this season that ISU led in the first quarter.
What’s Next
The Redbirds return home to Doug Collins Court at Redbird Arena, to take on UMKC on Sunday, Nov.26. Tip-off time is scheduled for 2 p.m