OMAHA, Neb. —The Omaha Mavericks Men’s Basketball team fell short against the Western Illinois Leathernecks Friday night by a final score of 85-77, losing their 11th straight game.

The Mavericks trailed in the game by as much as 14 points but continued to show resilience throughout, at one point cutting Western Illinois’ lead to five points in the second half.

“We’ve been fighting all year,” Maverick point guard Ayo Akinwole said. “We are trying to get over the hump when we do; if we can keep everybody together, I think we’ll be fine.”

Akinwole finished the game with 27 points shooting 9-of-11 from the field, 3-of-4 from the 3-point line, four assists and five rebounds.

“Just being in the right spot at the right time, honestly,” Akinwole said.

The Mavericks were able to push the ball in transition, outscoring Western Illinois 18-9 in fastbreak points.

“We got when we had opportunities we capitalized on some but not enough of them,” Maverick head coach Derrin Hansen said.

Rebounding gave the Leathernecks the edge throughout the game, out rebounding the Mavericks 46-29.

“The last four games, we rebounded right with the other team, but we did not do that tonight. I just felt they got some loose balls we could’ve got to we didn’t and give them credit they were the best on the glass,” Hansen said.

The Mavericks fall to 0-7 in Summit League play and a 2-15 record overall.

“I’m trying to put my finger on it, and I’m trying anything,” Hansen said. “It’s just a few things here and a few things there, but we haven’t been able to put it all together yet.”

The Mavericks return to the hardwood for their second game of a back-to-back against Western Illinois Saturday night from Baxter Arena. Tip off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.