MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. (Interstat) — In a defensive struggle defined by missed shots and turnovers, the Central Michigan Chippewas held off a late surge from the Eastern Illinois Panthers to secure a 60-54 victory in a non-conference women’s basketball game Saturday at McGuirk Arena.

The game was a contest of offensive attrition, with both teams struggling to find a consistent rhythm. Central Michigan improved its record to 4-1, while Eastern Illinois’s difficult start to the season continued, dropping them to 0-5.

Central Michigan built an early lead, closing the first quarter with an 18-9 advantage. The Chippewas maintained control through the second period, taking a 29-19 lead into halftime. Eastern Illinois found its footing after the break, outscoring Central Michigan 16-12 in the third quarter to narrow the gap, but the Chippewas matched the Panthers’ 19-point output in the final period to seal the win.

The outcome was largely dictated by performance in the paint and at the free-throw line. Central Michigan dominated inside, outscoring Eastern Illinois 32-20 on points in the paint. The Chippewas also capitalized on their opportunities at the charity stripe, making 14 of 18 attempts. Eastern Illinois was efficient but less frequent from the line, converting 10 of 12 free throws.

Shooting percentages were low across the board. Central Michigan shot 21 for 61 from the floor, a 34.4% clip, and made just 4 of 21 attempts from three-point range. Eastern Illinois was similarly challenged, finishing 19 of 54 from the field for 35.2% and 6 of 25 from beyond the arc.

Turnovers were plentiful, with Central Michigan committing 19 and Eastern Illinois giving the ball away 18 times. The Panthers managed to score 20 points off those Chippewa miscues, while Central Michigan converted Eastern Illinois turnovers into 13 points. A significant rebounding advantage for Central Michigan, particularly on the offensive glass where they held a 10-4 edge, provided crucial second-chance opportunities.

Demetria Prewitt led all scorers for Central Michigan, pouring in 17 points to go with two rebounds, an assist, and a block. Madi Morson also scored 17 points for the Chippewas, adding six rebounds and two assists. Zareia Chevre provided a strong presence inside with seven points and seven rebounds.

Eastern Illinois was led by Ava Stoller, who filled the stat sheet with 15 points, four rebounds, and five assists. Tiny Lewis contributed 13 points, and Abbie Boutilier anchored the interior with seven points, six rebounds, and a block. Clara Glad was a defensive force for the Panthers, recording seven rebounds and two blocks.

The game was played before an announced attendance of 1,101. Central Michigan’s next contest is on the road against Notre Dame on Monday. Eastern Illinois continues its challenging early-season slate at Louisville on Friday.