Kenosha, Wis. — After a weekend split to open GLIAC play, the Parkside Rangers turn their attention to a non-conference showdown against Illinois-Springfield. The Rangers, who have historically dominated the Prairie Stars, aim to get back in the win column when the two teams meet Saturday at 1:00 PM. The game marks the third of a five-game road trip for Parkside.
Last weekend for the Rangers:
Parkside began GLIAC play last weekend with a road trip to Michigan Tech and Northern Michigan. The Rangers started strong, earning an exhilarating overtime victory over Michigan Tech.
In a rematch of last year's GLIAC quarterfinal, Parkside topped Michigan Tech in overtime. Peighton Nelson's clutch game-tying bucket with 1.3 seconds left capped an 18-point fourth quarter and forced the bonus period.
In overtime, Parkside shot a blistering 71% from the field, including 2-for-3 from beyond the arc. The Rangers delivered clutch shot after clutch shot to secure a 79-75 win to open GLIAC play. Cassidy Arni led the charge with her second straight 20-point outing. Three other Rangers scored in double figures, and every player in the nine-person rotation chipped in at least two points.
Parkside's perfect road record came to an end Saturday with a narrow 72-67 loss to Northern Michigan. The Rangers led by as many as 12 points in the third quarter, but the Wildcats rallied late to secure the win.
Now 5-1 on the road this season, the Rangers will look to continue their strong play away from home this Saturday.
FULL GAME NOTES HERE
Scouting Illinois-Springfield
The Illinois-Springfield Prairie Stars are off to a tough start, remaining winless through eight games. The GLVC squad is already four games into its conference schedule but will step outside league play in search of its first win Saturday. Both Parkside and UIS have faced Maryville and Missouri-St. Louis this season, with Parkside winning both matchups while UIS dropped both contests.
The Prairie Stars are led by a trio of scorers averaging double figures. Kayla Rice paces the team with 16.4 points per game and leads the Prairie Stars in three-pointers made. Emari Doby (14.3 PPG) and Diavian Mehundrew (13.3 PPG) have also provided consistent offensive production for UIS.
History
Once GLVC foes, Parkside and Illinois-Springfield now meet as cross-conference opponents. The Rangers have dominated the all-time series, winning seven straight and holding a 13-1 all-time record. On the road, Parkside is 5-1 and aims to improve that mark to 6-1 on Saturday.
