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Central Michigan used a huge first half to get out in front of Northern Illinois, as the MAC leading Chippewas knocked off the second place Huskies, 109-86.
Presley Hudson had a game high 33 points to lead CMU, while Tinara Moore also had a strong night for the Chippewas, as she scored 24 points and grabbed 15 rebounds. Moore also had a program record 9 blocks. Cassie Breen scored 19 points (5-6 from 3-point range), and Reyna Frost added 11 points and five rebounds.
Ally Lehman led the way for Northern Illinois, as she scored 21 points and dished out five assists. Courtney Woods added 17 points and five rebounds and Kelly Smith added 17 points and nine rebounds.
Central Michigan connected on 42 of 76 shot attempts (55.3%), and made 14 of their 27 attempts from beyond the arc (51.9%). CMU also did well at the free throw line, converting on 11 of their 14 attempts from the charity stripe (78.6%).
Northern Illinois only made 35 of their 90 shot attempts (38.9%) and only connected on 1 of 14 three point tries (7.1%). The Huskies also converted from the free throw line, as they made 15 of 17 attempts from the stripe.
Central Michigan was in control from the beginning of this game, making shots left and right, and Northern Illinois struggled to find the bottom of the net.
The Chippewas led 72-34 at halftime, making a statement. Both teams had 45 rebounds, but the Huskies were forced into tougher shots all night long.
Central Michigan moves to 21-6 (13-2 MAC) and Northern Illinois falls to 18-8 (11-4 MAC).
Central Michigan will look to build off this victory, as they travel to Muncie to take on the Ball State Cardinals on Saturday, February 25th. Tip is set for 2 p.m. and will be aired on ESPN3.
Northern Illinois looks to bounce back, as they travel to Ypsilanti to take on the Eastern Michigan Eagles on Saturday, February 25th. Tip is set for 2:30 p.m. and will be aired on ESPN3.