Southern Illinois Aim to Build on Win, Missouri State Seek First Conference Win
Southern Illinois Salukis vs. Missouri State Bears: MVC Showdown Prediction
In an exciting MVC basketball matchup, the Southern Illinois Salukis (6-7, 1-5 MVC) will look to extend their momentum and complete a season sweep of the Missouri State Bears (7-10, 0-6 MVC) when they meet for the second game of their home-and-home series on Wednesday night at Great Southern Bank Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET, and both teams are in desperate need of a win as they battle through conference play. Here’s an in-depth look at the key statistics, player performances, and predictions for this crucial MVC basketball game.
Southern Illinois Salukis: Looking to Build on Recent Win and End Road Struggles
After snapping a five-game losing streak with an 88-78 win over Missouri State in their last game, the Southern Illinois Salukis will look to carry that momentum into their second game of the series. The victory also marked the Salukis’ first conference win of the season. However, they have struggled on the road, losing their last three games away from home.
The Salukis have averaged 72.9 points per game this season. In their previous matchup against Missouri State, they had a strong offensive showing, putting up 88 points, shooting 47.7% from the field, and hitting 36.8% of their three-pointers. The Salukis will need to maintain that offensive output, especially since they have struggled defensively, giving up an average of 76.4 points per game, ranking them poorly in the MVC.
Jarrett Hensley led the way in their last game, scoring 30 points and grabbing six rebounds. He has been one of the Salukis’ most reliable offensive weapons this season. Drew Steffe contributed 16 points and two rebounds, providing a solid supporting role. Ali Dibba added 13 points and four assists, showcasing his all-around ability to impact the game.
The Salukis will need to tighten up their defense, as they allowed 78 points to Missouri State in their previous game. If they can improve on the defensive end and continue their offensive efficiency, Southern Illinois will be in a strong position to claim the season sweep.
Missouri State Bears: Desperate for a Conference Win and Defensive Improvement
The Missouri State Bears have struggled mightily in conference play, losing their last five games and dropping to 0-6 in the MVC. They have been fighting to stay competitive, and a win against Southern Illinois would be a much-needed boost to their season. The Bears have also faced issues defensively, allowing an average of 72.3 points per game.
In their most recent loss to Southern Illinois, Missouri State scored 78 points, shooting 42.4% from the field and 37.9% from beyond the arc. However, their defense failed to keep up with the Salukis, allowing them to score 88 points. Missouri State must step up their defense to have a chance at breaking their losing streak.
Vincent Brady II was the standout performer for the Bears in the previous game, scoring 24 points and dishing out three assists. His ability to score and facilitate will be critical for Missouri State. Zaxton King also had a solid performance, contributing 23 points and five rebounds, showing his versatility on both ends of the floor. Chase Martin chipped in with nine points, providing a steady contribution.
The Bears will need improved performances from their defense to secure their first MVC win of the season. If they can limit Southern Illinois’ scoring and continue to get strong performances from Brady and King, Missouri State will have a chance to snap their five-game losing streak.
Conclusion
This game is a pivotal one for both teams, as the Southern Illinois Salukis will look to continue their momentum and finish off the season sweep of the Missouri State Bears. While Missouri State has struggled defensively all season, they will need to step up on that end to keep the Salukis from running away with the game.
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