Allie Meadows Builds Momentum into Record-Breaking Season at Western Illinois

Western Illinois’ Allie Meadows turned a strong start to last season into a historic, record-setting campaign. For the DeWitt native, early success helped fuel her confidence and drive, setting the tone for a season few will forget.

“We started off really well this past year and that definitely helped my momentum and drive as an individual player,” Meadows said.

That momentum translated into tangible milestones. Meadows set the Western Illinois school record for minutes played in a season, started every game over the past two years, and tied the school record with seven made three-pointers in a single game against Chicago State.

“We came in to that gym, no fans at all. I was like, ‘OK, I have to get myself going.’ So I took that first three… and all of a sudden it was 7-for-7,” she recalled. “My teammates kept finding me, and the coaches kept saying, ‘Why didn’t you shoot one more?’”

Standing at 5-foot-6, Meadows carved out her role on the court with precision and smart decision-making.

“All the threes and minutes played were just about finding a role. For me, that’s beyond the three-point line. The coaches don’t really like me getting inside because we have great bigs, but I find my little openings. When I get doubled, I’m always there for the kick-out,” she said.

Durability and preparation played a big role in her standout season. With more minutes on the floor than anyone in school history, Meadows focused on recovery and nutrition to keep her energy high and her body ready.

“Looking more into the nutrition side and staying off my feet when I wasn’t playing… I really honed in on treating my body pre- and post-games. That was something I didn’t take seriously my first two years,” she said.

Her focus on preparation and confidence is now building toward her senior season.

“Confidence is key. I will say over and over again — if you don’t believe in yourself, you will not be successful. It took me a while to gain the confidence I deserve, but as you put in the time and get up your shots, you start believing you can do it. Any dreams are possible — collegiate basketball, WNBA, or playing overseas — you have to believe in yourself,” Meadows said.

Meadows’ final season with the Leathernecks tips off November 4th, and if last year is any indication, fans can expect a confident, record-breaking performance.

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