Box Score ELGIN, IL. - Prairie State lost the first matchup against Elgin in Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference play.

The Pioneers weren't about to let that happen again. Prairie State smothered the Spartans defensively and cruised to an 81-61 victory on Tuesday. The win is the fifth straight win for the Pioneers (17-7, 7-2). 

Prairie State displayed great energy on the defensive end of the floor especially in the first half. The Pioneers held Elgin to 20 points and held their Skyway foe to 25 percent shooting. The excellent play helped the Pioneers to a 16-point lead heading into halftime.

The second half was higher scoring which worked for the nation's leading scorer Jared Johnson. The sophomore set the pace offensively with a game-high 24 points. His 17 rebounds gave him a double-double. Humza Robinson provided a spark off the bench with 13 points while Rashaad Williams added 12 points. Tyler Houston scored 10 but had six pivotal assists. Breion Hill had spurts of excellence with seven points, 13 rebounds and four blocks.

Prairie State will look for its sixth straight win on Thursday against Oakton.