Missouri State Bears Host Illinois State Redbirds in Crucial MVC Matchup

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Missouri State Bears (22-7) are set to host the Illinois State Redbirds (19-10) in a pivotal Missouri Valley Conference matchup on March 6, 2025. The game will tip off at 7:30 p.m. ET at Great Southern Bank Arena.

After suffering a narrow defeat to Belmont, with a final score of 67-61 in their last outing, Missouri State seeks to bounce back in front of their home fans. The Bears were led by Kyrah Daniels, who scored 19 points and recorded six rebounds. Kaemyn Bekemeier also contributed significantly, adding 16 points and seven rebounds.

Meanwhile, Illinois State is coming off a dominant 90-68 victory over Valparaiso. Elyce Knudsen shone in that match, scoring 24 points with an impressive 61.54 field goal percentage, including hitting six out of nine from beyond the arc.

In terms of statistical performance, Missouri State boasts a +296 scoring differential, outscoring opponents by an average of 10.2 points per game, ranked 63rd in college basketball for points scored (73.3). They allow 63.1 points per game, placing them 142nd nationally.

Lacy Stokes leads the Bears in scoring with an average of 13.6 points per game, ranking 287th in the country. On the opposing side, Illinois State outscored its opponents by 7.4 points per game, ranking 50th in points (74.7) while allowing 67.3, positioning them 242nd defensively. Shannon Dowell is the Redbirds’ top scorer at 15.7 points per game, ranking 139th in college basketball.

Predictions for the game indicate a close contest, with Missouri State projected to win 73-65.

The Bears will be looking to use their home court advantage, having won 11 consecutive home games, as they aim to solidify their position in the MVC standings ahead of the postseason.