HILLSDALE, Mich. – Lester Hart scored 19 points to lead the Illinois Springfield men's basketball team Wednesday evening, but the Prairie Stars fell in non-conference action at Hillsdale 84-69 inside Jesse Phillips Arena.
UIS (1-3 overall) had its largest lead of three after a West Dawson lay-up late in the opening half, but the Prairie Stars could not build on their momentum. UIS did take a two-point advantage into the locker room after a Kevin Pettiford buzzer beating shot.
Hart helped the second half get off to a good start as he built UIS' lead back to three when he drained a three-pointer with 17:55 remaining.
Hillsdale (4-0) then took command of the contest with a 12-2 run that gave it the lead for good. The Chargers built their largest lead of the night at 18 with under six minutes remaining and UIS would get no closer than 13 the rest of the way.
Along with Hart's 19 points, Michael Fakuade had his second consecutive double-double, as the Chicago native scored 16 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. Kyle Gupton was also in double figures for the Prairie Stars, as he recorded in 10 points.
UIS will be in action again Monday evening against Midwest Region foe Findlay. The Prairie Stars and Oilers will tip-off at 7:45 p.m. The contest will be a part of UIS Basketball Family Night at The Recreation and Athletic Center.