CHICAGO — In an exciting matchup on Wednesday night, Chase Walker was the standout performer, scoring 31 points to propel Illinois State to a narrow 81-79 victory over UIC.
Walker also contributed significantly on the boards, grabbing nine rebounds for the Redbirds, who improved their record to 15-9 overall and 7-6 in the Missouri Valley Conference.
Jordan Davis played a crucial role as well, shooting 6 of 9 from the floor and hitting 5 of 8 from beyond the three-point line to score 17 points.
Malachi Poindexter also made his mark, scoring 12 points after shooting 4 for 5, including an impressive 3 for 4 from three-point range.

For the Flames, Tyem Freeman was the leading scorer with 18 points, adding two blocks to his performance.
Jordan Mason contributed 15 points along with four assists, while Javon Jackson chipped in with 12 points, five assists, and two steals, helping UIC keep pace in the contest.

In a thrilling second half, Walker’s 15 points proved vital as Illinois State managed to secure the victory.
The game concluded dramatically with Poindexter making one of two free throws with just four seconds left on the clock.
UIC’s chance to tie came when Mason attempted a three-pointer at the buzzer, but the shot missed, sealing the win for Illinois State.