East Peoria, Ill. - The ICC men's basketball team (8-15) got back in the win column on Monday night at home against Rend Lake. ICC showed resiliency and toughness to maintain their lead throughout the duration of the game, winning over the Warriors 74-56.

ICC came out of the gates with teamwork, quality passing, and pressure defense. The Cougars started off the game going 9-10 from the field on six assists. With 10 minutes remaining in the first half, Ramsey Gym's scoreboard read a clean-looking 23-9 in favor of the hosts. Rend Lake, however, did find some rhythm offensively, hitting five threes, but the Cougars offense would continue to roll on its way to a 40-29 lead at halftime. 

The second half started quite similarly to the first. ICC started off with a five-point run which pushed their lead to 16. With about 15 minutes left in the game, the Warriors went on a run by forcing turnovers and getting opportunities at the free throw line. Rend Lake cut the lead to 48-44 with 10 minutes remaining, which was the closest they would get for the remainder of the game. The Cougars got back on track and extended their lead to double digits to close out the game. ICC would ultimately lead the rebounding margin by 12 (39-27) and forced 19 Warriors turnovers. 

After a couple of competitive final scores against nationally-ranked opponents, this one snaps a seven-game losing streak. ICC will look to stay in the win column by continuing their three-game home stand on Wednesday. 

STATISTICAL LEADERS
LaColis Ashby Jr. | 20 points, 7 rebounds
Matt Williams | 13 points, 6 rebounds
Lavell McIntosh | 11 points, 8 rebounds
Keaundre Cooper | 9 points
Amariyae Wilson | 9 assists

NEXT UP FOR THE COUGARS
vs. St. Louis Archers (15-8)
Wednesday, February 15th - 7:30 PM
@ Ramsey Gym - East Peoria, Ill.
WATCH LIVE (YouTube)