MACOMB, Ill. — In an exciting matchup on Saturday, Ryan Myers made a significant contribution with 18 points, including a pair of free throws in the final second, securing a 63-61 win for Western Illinois over Central Arkansas.

Myers ended the game with a shooting performance of 6 for 23, which included 4 for 16 from beyond the arc, while making 2 of his 4 free-throw attempts for the Leathernecks, who improved their record to 2-2. Teammate Sean Smith also played a pivotal role, scoring 17 points and shooting efficiently with 6 for 9 from the field, including 3 for 4 from three-point range, along with 2 of 3 from the charity stripe. Smith also contributed with six rebounds and five steals. Tay Knox had a solid outing as well, finishing with nine points and going a perfect 4 for 4 from the field.

On the opposing side, Layne Taylor was the standout for the Bears (1-3), as he notched 21 points to lead his team’s efforts while also grabbing six rebounds. Central Arkansas received additional support from Brayden Fagbemi, who added 13 points and dished out four assists, and Nehemiah Turner contributed with six points and six rebounds, highlighting a competitive game for both sides.