Basketball Recap: Athens' Run of Three Straight Wins Now Over

Warriors

Previous 5 Games

01/11/25 @ Illini Bluffs	32-41
01/09/25 vs Mt. Pulaski	47-40
12/30/24 vs Mendon Unity	28-20
12/28/24 vs Knoxville	41-20
12/27/24 vs Liberty	29-42

It was a good run, but Athens unfortunately witnessed the end of their three-game winning streak on Saturday. They took a 41-32 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Illini Bluffs Tigers. The result was an unpleasant reminder to the Warriors of the 41-23 loss they experienced in the pair's previous head-to-head fixture back in January of 2024.

When it comes to explaining why Athens lost, don't look at Addie Stadsholt. Despite the final result, she dropped a double-double on 14 points and 11 rebounds. Stadsholt also posted five blocks, which is notable because Athens is 10-5 when she posts at least five blocks, but 1-2 otherwise. Jaci Derringer was another key player, putting up five points.

Even though they lost, Athens smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 11 offensive boards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least 11 offensive rebounds in three consecutive matchups.

Athens' defeat was their first in the conference, dropping their conference record down to 3-1 and their overall record down to 11-7. As for Illini Bluffs, they have been performing well recently as they've won 11 of their last 14 games, which provided a nice bump to their 13-8 record this season.

Athens will face off against Illini Central/Greenview at 6:00 p.m. on Monday. Athens is facing Illini Central/Greenview at the right time seeing as Illini Central/Greenview is stuck on a five-game losing streak. As for Illini Bluffs, they will take on Elmwood at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday.