Dupage Policy Journal

Wheaton and Millikin both secured spots in the College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin (CCIW) Tournament semifinals after their respective victories on Tuesday night. Wheaton defeated Elmhurst 70-57, marking its first semifinal appearance since 2022, while Millikin achieved a rare win as a six seed by overcoming Carthage 63-57.

In Wheaton's match against Elmhurst at King Arena, sophomore Lily Caddow contributed a career-high 20 points from the bench. Despite trailing 27-22 at halftime, Wheaton took control with a strong third period. Kate Oliver's jumper initiated a decisive 13-0 run, resulting in a 39-32 lead for Wheaton. Although Elmhurst closed the gap to one point late in the game, Oliver's two free throws helped secure Wheaton's victory. Oliver finished with 18 points, and Wheaton will face Carroll in the semifinal.

Elmhurst ended its season with a record of 16-9, led by Kristin Bukata who scored 21 points.

Millikin joined the ranks of the few six seeds to win a CCIW Tournament quarterfinal since the expansion in 2019 by defeating Carthage at Tarble Arena. This victory propels Millikin into its fifth consecutive semifinal appearance against top-seeded Illinois Wesleyan.

Nikkel Johnson stood out for Millikin with a game-high 20 points as a reserve player. Emily Brenneisen added 16 points and Matayia Tellis provided six assists. Millikin maintained its lead after ending the first half on a strong note and held off Carthage's late push. Malia Green led Carthage with 19 points as they concluded their season with a record of 17-9.