How to watch Illinois State Redbirds vs. Missouri State Bears: NCAA Basketball live stream info, TV channel, start time, game odds

How to watch Illinois State vs. Missouri State basketball game

By Scout Staff

Jan 18, 2025 at 9:00 am ET • 2 min read

Who's Playing

Missouri State Bears @ Illinois State Redbirds

Current Records: Missouri State 7-11, Illinois State 10-8

How To Watch

When: Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 5 p.m. ET
Where: CEFCU Arena -- Normal, Illinois
TV: ESPN Plus
Follow: CBS Sports App
Online Streaming: Catch select College Basketball matches on Fubo (Try for free. Regional restrictions may apply.)
Ticket Cost: $16.50

What to Know

Missouri State and Illinois State are an even 5-5 against one another since February of 2019, but not for long. Both will face off in a Missouri Valley battle at 5:00 p.m. ET on Saturday at CEFCU Arena. The two teams have had a bumpy ride up to this point with six consecutive losses for the Bears and three for the Redbirds.

Missouri State was supposed to head into this match following a close win against S. Illinois, but that's certainly not how things went down on Wednesday. Missouri State found themselves the reluctant recipients of a 73-51 punch to the gut against S. Illinois. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest loss the Bears have suffered since February 21, 2024.

Despite the defeat, Missouri State had strong showings from Jalen Hampton, who went 5 for 8 en route to 14 points plus five rebounds, and Michael Osei-Bonsu, who almost dropped a double-double on 17 points and nine rebounds. Osei-Bonsu's performance made up for a slower matchup against S. Illinois on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Illinois State was within striking distance but couldn't close the gap on Wednesday as they fell 66-62 to Drake.

Illinois State's loss came about despite a quality game from Chase Walker, who went 8 for 12 en route to 20 points. Landon Wolf was another key player, posting 12 points in addition to two steals.

Missouri State's defeat dropped their record down to 7-11. As for Illinois State, their loss dropped their record down to 10-8.

Missouri State is hoping to beat the odds on Saturday, as the experts think they're headed for a loss. For those looking to play the spread, take note: they are a solid 6-3 against the spread when playing as the underdog.

Missouri State and Illinois State were neck-and-neck in their previous matchup back in February of 2024, but Missouri State came up empty-handed after a 75-74 defeat. Can Missouri State avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.