Southern Illinois Men’s Basketball is gearing up to face the Illinois State Redbirds this Tuesday at 6 p.m. The game takes place at CEFCU Arena in Normal, Illinois.
Game Overview
- Matchup: SIU vs. Illinois State
- Time: 6 p.m.
- Location: CEFCU Arena, Normal, IL
For fans who can’t attend in person, you can catch the game through live stats, ESPN+, or tune in on the Salukis’ audio stream.
Scouting the Redbirds
Illinois State has won three out of their last four games, with a recent victory over Murray State. They currently hold a 15-7 record and are 7-4 in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC).
Star player Chase Walker leads the team with an average of 14 points per game. In the first matchup this season, the Redbirds defeated the Salukis 75-68, with Ty Pence scoring 22 points. As a team, Illinois State averages 77.5 points per game, placing them fourth in the MVC. Notably, they excel at rebounding, leading the league with a +5.41 rebound margin.
The Salukis’ Performance
Southern Illinois, with a record of 9-13 and 3-8 in MVC play, is on a quest for improvement. Coach Scott Nagy recently hit a milestone with his 600th career win against UNI. The Salukis have a diverse scoring lineup. Quel’Ron House leads with 13.4 points per game, while several others contribute significantly.
Although SIU struggles with three-point shooting, their inside game remains strong. Freshman Jalen Haynes has been a standout player, with impressive performances off the bench. Last game, the Salukis fell narrowly to UIC 68-66, but Damien Mayo Jr. shined with 20 points, including a career-high five three-pointers.
Recent Trends
In the latest NET rankings, Southern Illinois sits at No. 136, while Illinois State is at No. 69. The divergence in these rankings reflects the competitive nature of the MVC this season.
As fans rally behind their teams, social media excitement is palpable. Posts leading up to the game highlight key players and memorable moments, fostering a vibrant community of supporters.
For the latest updates, follow the Salukis on their official website or on social media platforms like X, Instagram, and Facebook.
This game is not just a typical matchup; it’s a chance for the Salukis to build momentum as we move deeper into the season.
