Carbondale Reporter

The Southern Illinois University (SIU) women's basketball team is preparing for its home opener against Eastern Kentucky. The game is scheduled for Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Banterra Center in Carbondale, Illinois.

Fans can watch the game on ESPN+ with commentary from Mike Trude and Saluki Hall of Famer Jamaal Tatum. Larry Larson will provide the radio broadcast on NewsRadio WJPF 107.9 FM.

The event's theme is a 'Costume Party,' encouraging fans to dress up in costumes. Attendees can meet SIU's Spirit Team before the game and stay afterward for poster autographs on the court.

SIU began its season with a loss to Auburn, scoring only 31 points, their lowest since February 2014. Last season, they finished with an overall record of 11-20 and were ranked tenth in the Missouri Valley Conference preseason poll this year.

Kelly Bond-White leads SIU into her third season as head coach, joined by new staff members Greg Brown and Peyton Thevenot. Gift Uchenna was the top scorer in their recent defeat, supported by Kayla Cooper.

The team has four returning players and ten newcomers, including transfers Kayla Cooper from Oklahoma, Karris Allen from Western Kentucky, and Jeniah Thompson from Wichita State University.

Eastern Kentucky enters Sunday's matchup with two losses this season, having been defeated by LSU and Tennessee State. Alice Recanati led EKU in scoring during their latest game against Tennessee State.

Historically, SIU holds a 2-0 record against Eastern Kentucky, with their last meeting occurring in February 1979.

Fans can follow updates on SIU women's basketball through various social media platforms or download the "Salukis" Mobile App for more information.