CHICAGO — In a close contest, UIC emerged victorious against Missouri State with a score of 63-58 on Sunday, thanks in part to Javon Jackson’s impressive performance, where he tallied 16 points along with three steals. The Flames improved their season record to 16-11, now holding an 8-8 standing in the Missouri Valley Conference.

Modestas Kancleris also contributed significantly to the team’s win, scoring 13 points while grabbing eight rebounds and recording three blocks. Sasa Ciani added support by scoring 10 points, finishing the game with an efficient shooting performance, hitting five out of eight attempts from the floor.

On the opposing side, Missouri State’s efforts were led by Michael Osei-Bonsu, who had a standout game with 21 points, eight rebounds, four assists, two steals, and four blocks. His teammate, Vincent Brady II, contributed with 14 points, alongside four assists and three steals. Chase Martin rounded out the scoring for the Bears with nine points.

UIC controlled much of the game, with Jackson notably scoring 10 points in the first half, helping his team to a narrow 35-30 lead at halftime. The pivotal moment came late in the second half when the Flames secured their winning position: Kancleris made a pivotal free throw with just 1:47 left on the clock, shifting the score to 57-56, a lead UIC would not relinquish.