In what was a change of pace compared to some of the other games today, Southern Illinois was able to get a win in a defensive battle against Missouri State. The game was ugly at times with both teams struggling to get good looks, but ultimately, it was a second half surge from the Salukis to not only get them ahead, but keep them ahead. After struggling to start the game, Southern Illinois advances to the semis with a 54-51 win.

In the first half, Missouri State jumped out to a double digit lead. Donovan Clay was playing extremely well in the paint and Dalen Ridgnal hit some really tough threes. The Salukis went nearly three minutes without scoring in the first half, giving Missouri State a 13 point advantage. However, a 6.5 minute scoring drought to end the half from Missouri State gave the Salukis life as they closed the gap to five by halftime. Both teams were under one point per possession at the half.

To start the second half, Southern Illinois continued their play from the end of the first half. Marcus Domask and Xavier Johnson each hit a triple to get the Salukis back into it and then Domask hit a pair of free throws to give SIU their first lead since the 13:03 mark of the first half. Much like some of the other games, there was a lot of back-and-forth from there on out. The team were trading leads, but still playing excellent defense.

Southern Illinois was able to make one final push to secure the win, but it wasn’t without some trouble. The Salukis threw away multiple inbounds passes in an effort to close out the game. Ultimately, Kendle Moore’s three was off and the Salukis hung on.

Marcus Domask led the Salukis with 17, but it was Troy D’Amico who was excellent on both sides of the ball late to get SIU ahead. Bryan Mullins’ switching him on to Donovan Clay might’ve been what ultimately made the difference. The Salukis now advance to play Drake in the second semi final on Saturday.