SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — On Wednesday night, Missouri State achieved a solid victory over Evansville, triumphing with a score of 71-54. Michael Osei-Bonsu played a pivotal role in this win, contributing 16 points and securing seven rebounds for the Bears, who now hold a record of 9-17 overall and 2-13 in the Missouri Valley Conference.

Vincent Brady II also made a significant impact on the game, finishing with 15 points after shooting 5-for-9 from the field, including two three-pointers and three free throws. Dez White complemented the scoring effort with 10 points, going 4-for-9 from the field and sinking two three-pointers as well.

The Purple Aces, who share a record of 9-17 but stand at 6-9 in conference play, saw their leading scorer, Tayshawn Comer, finish the contest with 17 points. Connor Turnbull contributed an additional 13 points, while Gabriel Pozzato added 12 points alongside three steals on the defensive end.

Missouri State seized control of the game with a lead that began at the 16:30 mark in the first half and managed to maintain it throughout. By halftime, the score was 36-26 with Wesley Oba contributing seven points. The Bears continued their strong performance in the second half, outscoring the Aces by seven points, with Osei-Bonsu leading the charge by scoring 10 points in that final period.