61-55 win over Kent State. Chelby Koker out with about 4-5 minutes left (forget exact time she went down); had ice on a knee at end sitting on bench after locker room visit. Mikayla Brandon bloody nose from KSU offensive foul, but finished game with great rebounding, freethrow. Even without Koker (#1 MAC freethrows), NIU hit all but one or two at end (Marable, Poisson, Brandon) to win, plus solid defense.

Nice, but losing Koker could be a killer down the stretch for the team. We'll really need the bench to step up if she's out long-term.

That Chelby injury was/is devastating. It’s late January already and I would have know idea how long the recovery period is. I think Courtney Woods blew her knew right at the beginning of the season and she made it back the next year but was very, very good…but not the same player.

What an absolute testament to these girls and staff that they fought off Kent State’s comeback to win that game in the end.

I know word doesn't come out easily, but anyone know anything about Chelby Koker being able to play Sat.? If she needs time off, take it. Don't risk aggravation, further injury. Hope she's ok.

With her and A'Jah Davis and maybe Janae Poisson being the scoring leaders, team has to learn to step up. Mikayla Brandon did. Need others. This is not unique situation for any team. Good teams do.