Bounce Back Win

(St. Louis, MO) – Two teams in desperate need of a win squared off at Chaifetz Arena Saturday night and Indiana State emerged with an important bounce back win. Indiana State and Saint Louis University have both struggled in the pre-conference portion of their schedule.

The Billikens have not been able to find a consistent scoring rotation and in ‘go to’ moments they haven’t had anyone to go to! Greg Lansing’s Sycamores are clear about who has what role, but their execution has been less than Indiana State fans expect.

SLU had lost four of their last five games and Indiana State hadn’t defeated a Division 1 team since November 23rd. This game was crucial to both teams.

Indiana State trailed by three at the half and went on a 21-2 run to start the second frame and never looked back. After a sluggish first half, Matt Scyoc went off early in the second with 11 points during the pivotal run. The 6’6 junior finished with 16 points.

With the 76-68 win the Sycamores moved to 5-6. The Bills fell to 5-5.

Lansing teams are known for their defense and this key victory was emblematic of that fact. They forced 21 turnovers and blocked six shots. Coach Lansing says team defense and balanced offense are the key to Sycamore success.

 

The Sycamores pulled away to an 18 point lead, but the Bills fought back to make it a game behind Davell Roby’s three-pointers and overall game. The 6’4 sophomore finished with 19 points (a new career high), seven rebounds and four assists.

Indiana State gained their first road win in four tries and senior Khristian Smith had some ‘senior moments’ in the second half. He sat much of the game with foul trouble, but collected six late points to ice the game.

Lansing says Smith’s three-pointer showed great leadership and the Sycamores have great leadership and work ethic because of players like Smith and Devonte Brown.

SLU entertains MVC member Southern Illinois on Monday. ISU hosts Ball State on December 22.

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