Carbondale Reporter

Southern Illinois University (SIU) is set to host High Point at the Banterra Center in Carbondale, Illinois, this Saturday. The basketball game, which begins at 1 p.m., is part of SIU's Rockin' Christmas Beach Party. Tickets are available starting at $3 without additional fees.

Promotional activities for the event include a halftime performance by Elvis tribute artist Dave Stovall and a pregame appearance by Santa Claus from noon until 12:45 p.m., featuring giveaways for children. Additionally, the first 2,000 fans will receive a free Hawaiian lei.

Broadcasting the game on ESPN Plus are Mike Trude and Saluki Hall of Famer Jamaal Tatum. Radio coverage will be provided locally on 101.5 CIL-FM and through various online platforms including SIUSalukis.com/Listen.

Key players for Southern Illinois include Kennard Davis Jr., who has achieved Third Team Preseason All-MVC honors, and Ali Dibba, who recently surpassed 1,000 career points. Jarrett Hensley has recorded consecutive double-doubles in recent games against Bradley and Southern Indiana.

High Point enters the match as preseason favorites in the Big South Conference with an impressive record of 11-2 this season. D'Maurian Williams leads their offense with an average of 14.6 points per game.

This upcoming contest marks the first meeting between Southern Illinois and High Point. In their last outing, Southern Illinois secured a victory over Austin Peay with key performances from players like Ali Dibba and Jarrett Hensley.

Southern Illinois head coach Scott Nagy brings extensive experience to the team with 30 years in coaching and ranks No. 17 among active Division I coaches in wins. Alongside Nagy, Steve Hawkins contributes significantly to the coaching staff's experience.

For updates on SIU basketball, fans can visit SIUSalukis.com or follow the team on social media platforms such as X, Instagram, and Facebook.