Banterra Center | Southern Illinois University Athletics
Banterra Center | Southern Illinois University Athletics
Southern Illinois University's basketball team is set to begin a four-game road trip in Florida, starting with a matchup against the No. 21-ranked Florida Gators on Friday night. The game will be broadcast on the SEC Network, with Mike Morgan and Mark Wise providing commentary. Radio coverage will be available locally on 101.5 CIL-FM and through various online platforms.
The Salukis are led by first-year head coach Scott Nagy, who has 30 years of coaching experience and ranks 17th among active Division I head coaches in wins. Players Kennard Davis Jr. and Ali Dibba have received Third Team Preseason All-MVC honors.
Recently, Southern Illinois secured a victory over North Dakota State with a score of 69-44, marking one of their best defensive performances in program history. Ali Dibba led the team with 17 points, while Kennard Davis Jr., Jarrett Hensley, and Elijah Elliott also contributed significantly.
Florida enters the game undefeated this season under third-year head coach Todd Golden. The Gators are averaging 87.2 points per game, with Walter Clayton Jr. leading the team in scoring.
This matchup marks the first meeting between Southern Illinois and Florida's basketball programs. Previously, Florida's coach Todd Golden achieved two victories against Southern Illinois during his tenure at San Francisco.
Southern Illinois players Elijah Elliott and Kennard Davis Jr. have been notable performers this season, contributing significantly to the team's offense and defense.
Coach Scott Nagy brings extensive experience to Southern Illinois' bench alongside Steve Hawkins, combining for over 1,000 career wins.
Scott Nagy's background includes playing at NCAA Division II Delta State where he was part of two Regional Championships teams and holds records for assists.
The Missouri Valley Conference (MVC), which includes Southern Illinois University, has a strong track record in NCAA Tournament games since 2012.
Fans can follow updates about the Salukis through various social media platforms and official websites.
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