Carbondale Reporter

Southern Illinois University is set to host Evansville for the New Year's Saluki Bash on Wednesday, marking the continuation of their Missouri Valley Conference play. The game will take place at Banterra Center with a 1 p.m. CT tipoff.

Promotional offers for the event include tickets starting at $4 with no added fees when purchased online. Specific sections have varying prices, and there are half-price chair-back tickets available. The event will feature a halftime performance by Snow Power Gymnastics & Dance and the largest balloon drop in Southern Illinois history.

The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ with commentary from Mike Trude and Saluki Hall of Famer Jamaal Tatum. Fans can also listen to the radio broadcast locally on 101.5 CIL-FM or through various apps, including the Saluki Mobile App.

Key players for Southern Illinois include Ali Dibba, who has been consistent in scoring double digits this season, averaging 15.4 points per game. Kennard Davis Jr., contributing an average of 13.8 points per game, is noted for his defensive skills with an average of 2.04 steals per game. Jarrett Hensley recently achieved back-to-back double-doubles and averages 11.1 points and 6.4 rebounds per game.

Forward Rolyns Aligbe was named MVC Freshman of the Week following his performance against Northern Iowa, where he recorded seven points and eight rebounds.

Evansville enters the match with a record of 4-9 overall and 1-1 in conference play after defeating Missouri State at home. Gabriel Pozzato leads Evansville's scoring efforts with an average of 15.4 points per game.

Southern Illinois holds a historical advantage over Evansville, leading their series 79-58 and having won nine out of their last ten encounters.

For more updates on Southern Illinois basketball, fans are encouraged to visit SIUSalukis.com or follow their social media channels.