Little Rock secured a 74–63 win over Eastern Illinois on Thursday night at the Jack Stephens Center, pulling away in the final minutes with key plays from Kachi Nzeh. The Trojans outscored the Panthers 44–26 in the second half after trailing by seven points at halftime.
A late three-pointer and dunk by Nzeh helped Little Rock finish on a decisive run. The Trojans’ defense played a significant role, forcing 17 turnovers and turning them into 31 points. They also recorded eight steals and five blocks, holding Eastern Illinois to just 26 points in the last 20 minutes.
“We got back in the game by trapping in the second half,” said Little Rock head coach Darrell Walker. “Our defensive pressure created high-percentage shots and helped us grab the momentum.”
Tuongthach Gatkek started the second half with a fast-break layup assisted by Johnathan Lawson, and Lawson later hit a three-pointer to give Little Rock a lead they would not lose.
“We played with a lot of intensity in the second half,” Lawson said. “Kachi hit some big threes, we got some good looks, and we finished the game with a lot of energy.”
Eastern Illinois led at halftime after dominating offensive rebounds, but Little Rock responded by tightening their defense and controlling play after the break.
Nzeh led four Trojans scoring in double figures with 17 points, including three three-pointers and two blocks. Lawson contributed 15 points, three triples, and six assists. Braxton Bayless had 14 points and two steals, while Cameron Wallace recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds.
The Trojans have now won six of their last seven games. Their next matchup is against Western Illinois on Saturday, Jan. 17 at home.
“There are no cakewalks in this league, and we know we are going to get their best shot,” Walker said. “I’m going to get to work preparing for them right now.”
