SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — In a decisive game, Southern Illinois emerged victorious against Missouri State, claiming a 73-51 win on Wednesday night, thanks in part to a standout performance from Ali Abdou Dibba, who netted 22 points.
Additionally, Dibba contributed significantly on the boards, pulling down seven rebounds for the Salukis, who now hold a record of 7-11 overall and 2-5 within the Missouri Valley Conference.

Alongside Dibba, Kennard Davis also made a notable impact, scoring 18 points. He demonstrated efficiency by shooting 6 of 13 from the field, including 3 for 7 from beyond the arc, and went 3 for 4 from the charity stripe, in addition to grabbing eight rebounds.
Jarrett Hensley matched Davis with 18 points, making an impressive 7 of 10 shots and 4 of 5 from three-point territory.

On the opposing side, Michael Osei-Bonsu was the bright spot for the Bears, contributing 17 points, nine rebounds, and two blocks. Jalen Hampton added another 14 points for Missouri State, while Zaxton King contributed five points. Unfortunately for the Bears, this loss marks their sixth consecutive defeat, leaving them at 7-11 overall and a dismal 0-7 in their conference play.

As both teams prepare for their next challenges, Southern Illinois will host Northern Iowa on Saturday, while Missouri State is set to face Illinois State away from home.