McLean County Times

The Illinois State men's basketball team secured an 85-81 victory over Indiana State in a home game at CEFCU Arena. Dalton Banks and Johnny Kinziger led the Redbirds with scoring efforts of 21 and 20 points, respectively. Banks' performance marked his second-highest career score, while Kinziger achieved his fourth 20-point game this season.

Chase Walker contributed significantly with 17 points, while Caden Boser, Jordan Davis, Malachi Poindexter, and Ty Pence each added at least five points to the team's total. Davis also recorded a career-high of 12 rebounds. Kinziger matched the game-high assists with six, just one short of his season best.

The Redbird defense effectively limited Semage Teel, the MVC's second-leading scorer, to seven points—well below his average of 17.1 per game.

Illinois State started strong in the second half with consecutive three-pointers and maintained their lead throughout. Despite attempts by Indiana State to close the gap late in the game, Illinois State held firm for a four-point win.

Throughout the match, Illinois State displayed impressive shooting accuracy: converting over half their shots from the field (51.7%), making 44% from beyond the arc, and achieving a free throw percentage of nearly 78%. This was their eighth game this season meeting or exceeding these shooting splits.

Indiana State's Aaron Gray led his team with 19 points followed by Camp Wagner's contribution of 17 points. Both Bruno Alocen and Jaden Daughtry scored ten points each for Indiana State.

The victory improved Illinois State's all-time record against Indiana State to 69-64 and marked their second consecutive win in this series.

After concluding their homestand games, Illinois State will face Bradley Braves on January 25th in Peoria.