Evansville (7-18, 1-14) @ Wichita State (21-6, 10-5)
Koch Arena
Wichita, KS 7:05 CT
TV: None
After potentially bursting the Shockers’ bubble last week, the Purple Aces were back to their old self as they dropped their 14th MVC game to Southern Illinois over the weekend 80-64. Still, even after clinching last place in the conference, you can bet the Aces will attempt to sweep the Shox tonight.
The Shockers on the other hand, will have revenge in mind as they will look to stay unbeaten on their home court. With a lot of talk about the Shockers getting an at large bid into the NCAA, they may have shot themselves in the foot with the loss the Purple Aces last week. There were many that thought that if the Shockers won out and advanced to the finals of the tournament in St. Louis, they would be in decent shape for a bid. Now, it look like WSU will be in the same position as the rest of the Valley, with the exception of UNI, in that they will need to win it all in Arch Madness to get into the NCAA field.
Considering the man at the helm in tonight’s game for WSU, I can see the Shockers wanting to make a statement tonight by blowing out the Aces. Can they? Yeah, and I have a good feeling they will.
– Paul Liberty
Missouri State (17-9, 7-8) @ Illinois State (18-8, 9-6)
Redbird Arena
Normal, Ill. 7:05 CT
TV: FSN
Missouri State seemed to give WSU all they could in a nationally televised match-up Sunday night on ESPNU, but they were unable to capitalize in a tough 66-64 loss. The Bears are trying desperately to stay out of the play-in round of the MVC tournament, and will need a big win tonight to keep their heads above water. But it will be a tough one.
The Redbirds are coming off a very emotional win on the road where they were able to knock off the Creighton Bluejays and separate themselves as the lone team in third place. Playing at home tonight should play well into the Redbirds hand. This could be close, but I am going to have to say those who show up to Redbird Arena will see their hometown boys take care of business.
– Paul Liberty