East Michigan News

Eastern Michigan University's women's basketball team experienced a challenging start to the UTRGV Holiday Classic, falling to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in overtime with a final score of 73-66. The game, held on December 19 in Edinburg, Texas, saw the Eagles' record fall to 1-7 while the Vaqueros improved to 5-6.

Sisi Eleko was a standout for Eastern Michigan, achieving her fifth double-double of the season by scoring 18 points and securing a season-best 17 rebounds. "Eleko, the MAC leader in double-doubles," reached double-digit points for the eighth time this year. Mackenzie Amalia also made significant contributions with a season-high 18 points and six rebounds.

The match began with both teams struggling to establish offensive rhythm. UTRGV gained an early advantage, leading by eight points at one stage. However, Amalia's buzzer-beater reduced the deficit to six by the end of the first quarter. Eastern Michigan managed to narrow UTRGV's lead further before halftime through effective shooting.

After halftime, Eastern Michigan took its first lead late in the third quarter thanks to Amalia's efforts. Despite extending their lead into the fourth quarter with an 11-0 run, they could not maintain it as UTRGV regained control. Brooklyn Thrash gave Eastern a brief lead near the end of regulation time, but UTRGV tied it up just before overtime.

In overtime, UTRGV capitalized on their opportunities and secured victory by hitting their initial four shots. This marked another tough loss for Eastern Michigan in overtime games.

Olivia Westphal added six points for Eastern Michigan and continued her streak of games with multiple three-pointers. The team maintained its streak of consecutive games with at least one successful three-point shot.

Historically, this result put UTRGV ahead in their all-time series against Eastern Michigan at 2-1 and extended Eastern's struggles in overtime games. The Eagles have now lost three consecutive overtime matches.

Looking ahead, Eastern Michigan will face Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi on December 20 as part of their ongoing participation in the UTRGV Holiday Classic.