Thomas Takes Charge in Redbirds Exhibtion Victory Over SIUE

Image courtesy of Illinois State athletics 

NORMAL, Ill. — Nevaeh Thomas set the tone for Illinois State women’s basketball in its dominate exhibition win over SIUE, leading the Redbirds with 22 points and 11 rebounds.

The Redbirds secured the 93-59 victory over the Cougars at CEFCU Arena on Monday night. Thomas was one of three players that scored in double-digits. Freshman Daniella Mporokoso made her mark early, scoring 15 points on 5-of-8 shooting. Transfer Chloe Spreen shot 100% from three-point ranger, finishing with 14 points.

ISU shot 61.1% from the floor in the first quarter. The Redbirds 22 points in the paint to open the game. At the half, the Redbirds held a 40-29 lead over SIUE.

Coming out of the half, it was all ISU. They went 5-for-6 from three and scored 34 total points to take a 74-47 lead going into the fourth quarter. The Redbirds secured the victory in the fourth quarter, shooting 59 percent from the field in the second half.

ISU opens up their 2026-2027 season on November 2 at CEFCU Arena against Chicago State. Tipoff is set for 6:30 p.m.. Tune into wznd.com where Ben Webster and Quinn Lyons have the call.

For more updates on ISU women’s basketball, visit wznd.com.