SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — In an exciting matchup on Saturday night, Illinois State emerged victorious over Missouri State with a final score of 70-68, thanks to Dalton Banks and Chase Walker’s late-game heroics.

Banks was instrumental for the Redbirds, contributing 16 points along with eight assists, solidifying his role as a playmaker on the court. The Redbirds, currently holding a record of 17 wins and 12 losses, with a 9-9 standing in the Missouri Valley Conference, saw Johnny Kinziger also make significant contributions, scoring 14 points on six of 14 shooting, while his shooting from beyond the arc was somewhat challenged, making only two of seven attempts. Jordan Davis also played well, ending the game with 13 points, shooting an impressive five for six overall and hitting three out of four three-point attempts, in addition to pulling down seven rebounds.

For the Bears, who now hold a record of 9-20 and 2-16 within the conference, Vincent Brady II and Chase Martin were the standout players, each scoring 15 points. Dez White contributed with 12 points, but it was not enough to secure a win against the determined Redbirds.

After a competitive first half, Kinziger led the scoring with 14 points, allowing Illinois State to head into halftime with a narrow lead of 35-32. Banks took over in the second half, pacing his team with 12 additional points, which proved crucial as the game came to its thrilling conclusion.

Looking ahead, Illinois State is set to visit Southern Illinois for their next game on Tuesday, while Missouri State will prepare to host Belmont on Wednesday.