NORMAL, Ill. — Chase Walker contributed significantly with 22 points while Johnny Kinziger clinched the win for Illinois State with a crucial 3-pointer just 17 seconds before the final buzzer, leading the Redbirds to an 81-78 victory over Belmont on Wednesday night.

In addition to his points, Walker pulled down six rebounds for Illinois State, which improved its record to 13-9 overall and 5-6 in the Missouri Valley Conference. Kinziger had an impressive game as well, hitting 8 of 15 shots, with 5 of those from three-point range, and also totaling 22 points. Landon Wolf contributed to the scoring efforts with 11 points, although his three-point shooting was less effective, hitting only 1 of 6 attempts.

On the other side, Jonathan Pierre emerged as the leading scorer for the Bruins, netting 27 points. Sam Orme supported the effort with 20 points, while Isaiah Walker added a solid contribution of 10 points and nine rebounds.

The first half concluded with Illinois State holding a narrow lead over Belmont, 35-31, with Kinziger scoring 12 points before the break. The second half saw Walker step up for Illinois State, where he added another 13 points for his team.

Looking ahead, Illinois State will face Valparaiso at home on Saturday, while Belmont will take on Evansville at their venue on Sunday.