The Omaha Mavericks started their new season after being runner ups in the postseason losing to South Dakota State in the Summit League Championship game last season. Their first game was at home to last seasons Missouri Valley Regular Season champs the Illinois State Redbirds.
Omaha struggled early and let Illinois State go on an 18-0 run to start the game. As a result, Omaha tried to cut into Illinois States lead in the 2nd quarter with some full court press, but Illinois State scored a few baskets at the end of the first half.
The second half saw Illinois State extend their lead even further and the final score was 105-59 Redbirds. Omaha saw all their freshman play and score including former Millard South Patriot Cora Olsen who led the Mavs with 10 points. Katie Keitges also had 10 points, Kennedi Grant 8 points, Morgan Gardner with 7 points, and Grace Cave who was a Summit League player to watch from Weeping Water with only 2 points.
The next game for Omaha will be tonight at 7pm against the College of St. Mary’s, an NAIA school located right near Omaha’s campus. This should be a nice regroup game for the Mavs to get in the win column for the 23-24 season.