NORMAL, Ill. — Illinois State emerged victorious over Evansville with a 62-53 win on Sunday, bolstered by Dalton Banks’ performance. Banks contributed significantly to the Redbirds’ record (18-13, 10-10 Missouri Valley Conference) with 13 points, six rebounds, and five steals. Malachi Poindexter played a crucial role, shooting 2 of 4 from the field, including 1 for 3 from beyond the arc, and successfully making 6 of 7 free throws to rack up 11 points. Johnny Kinziger, though struggling from deep with 0 for 7 from three-point range, managed to score eight points by going 4 for 4 from the free-throw line.
On the opposing side, the Purple Aces (11-20, 8-12) saw Tanner Cuff leading the offensive efforts with 15 points and four assists. Connor Turnbull also made a notable impact, contributing 14 points, grabbing seven rebounds, and blocking two shots. Meanwhile, Gabriel Pozzato chipped in with 13 points and nine rebounds, adding depth to Evansville’s scoring.
In the first half, Illinois State transformed a narrow three-point lead into a more commanding 18-point advantage, driven by a 15-0 run. Poindexter was instrumental before the half, helping his team secure a 34-23 edge at the break. The game’s decisive moment came in the second half when Jordan Davis hit a critical three-pointer with 7:58 left to play, securing the lead for Illinois State at 48-45, which they maintained till the end.
