SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — In an impressive display, Tyem Freeman contributed 18 points to the University of Illinois at Chicago’s (UIC) 80-63 victory against Missouri State on Tuesday evening.

Freeman also recorded five rebounds for the Flames, who now hold an overall record of 11-5 and a conference record of 3-2 in the Missouri Valley Conference. Filip Skobalj played a key role as well, going a perfect 6 of 6 from the field, including 5 of 5 from three-point range, finishing the game with 17 points. Ahmad Henderson II added to the Flames’ strong offensive performance with 12 points, shooting 5 for 8 overall and making 2 of 4 from long distance.

On the other side of the court, the Bears struggled, sporting a record of 7-9 and 0-5 in conference play. Zaxton King led the scoring for Missouri State with 17 points, while teammate Michael Osei-Bonsu chipped in 10 points.

In terms of performance by half, Freeman was instrumental in the first half, leading UIC with eight points and helping his team secure a 36-27 lead going into halftime. After the break, Skobalj surged ahead, scoring a team-high 14 points and solidifying the Flames’ victory.