Carbondale Reporter

Last week was eventful for Saluki athletics, with several spring sports beginning their seasons and others continuing non-conference schedules. Both men's and women's basketball teams are progressing toward the postseason.

The men's basketball team played two Missouri Valley Conference games, losing both. They started with a 78-64 loss at Bradley, where Ali Dibba scored 29 points. SIU then lost to Belmont 73-68, with Dibba again leading in scoring with 24 points. Upcoming games include a visit to Murray State on February 19 and hosting Valparaiso on February 22.

The women's basketball team also faced conference opponents, losing both games. They were defeated by Missouri State 83-48 and UIC 62-46. Gift Uchenna was notable for her double-double against Missouri State. The team will travel to Drake on February 20 and Northern Iowa on February 22.

SIU's track and field team hosted the Don Denoon Invite, achieving several first-place finishes in various events including sprints, distance races, throws, and jumps. The team now prepares for the MVC Indoor Championship from March 1-3 in Chicago.

In softball, the Salukis participated in The 2025 Snowman: Alex Wilcox Memorial Tournament but did not secure any wins across four games. Notable performances included Jackie Lis' multi-hit game against Mississippi State and Anna Carder's home run against North Texas. Their next tournament is the San Marcos Classic starting February 21.

Women's golf finished their first spring competition at the Advance Golf Partners Invitational in Florida, placing 11th out of 18 teams. Men's golf competed in the Hal Williams Collegiate, finishing seventh among thirteen teams.

Baseball began its season at UT-Rio Grande Valley with one win out of three games. Michael Mylott stood out with multiple RBIs over the weekend. The team will play Tennessee Tech in a three-game series from February 21-23.

Finally, SIU's swim and dive squad will compete in the Men's MVC Championships this week in Oxford, Ohio.

For updates on Saluki athletics, follow them on social media or download their mobile app.