SIUE defeats Eureka 97-54
SIUE Dominates Eureka in Statement Win
The First Community Arena was the stage for a decisive showdown between SIUE and Eureka, with the Salukis emerging victorious by a margin of 43 points, 97-54.
At halftime, the home team led comfortably, with SIUE boasting a 42-19 advantage. The difference only grew larger as the second half progressed, with the Cougars' largest lead coming at 49 points. This was no one-and-done affair; rather, it was a comprehensive statement win that showcased SIUE's dominance.
Jordan Pickett led the way for SIUE with 15 points, including four three-pointers, shot an impressive 62.5% from the field, and added eight rebounds to his tally. Ring Malith contributed eight more rebounds alongside 13 points and two assists, while Darius Robinson Jr. chipped in five assists, five points, and two rebounds.
In contrast, Eureka's Jaxson Provost scored a respectable 12 points but shot only 33.3% from the field. Jonah Lauff added nine points for the Cougars, although his four rebounds were not enough to stem the tide.
SIUE's impressive performance was reflected in various advanced statistics. The team shot an eFG percentage of 58.6%, while their free throw rate was a respectable 17.1%. They also excelled on the glass, grabbing 42 rebounds and limiting Eureka to just 31.
Eureka's struggles were evident across the board. Their field goal percentage was a paltry 35%, with only five three-pointers made from 18 attempts. The Cougars turned the ball over 24 times, while SIUE's turnover total was an impressive nine.
This win serves as a statement of intent for SIUE, who have already established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the conference. The margin of victory was not surprising, given the significant differences in efficiency and execution between the two teams.
Game Stats
SIUE (HOME)
* Field Goals: 39/76 (51.0%)
* 2-Point FG: 28/42 (66.7%)
* 3-Point FG: 11/34 (32.0%)
* Free Throws: 8/13 (62.0%)
* Rebounds: 42
* Assists: 21
* Turnovers: 9
* Steals: 16
* Blocks: 3
Eureka (AWAY)
* Field Goals: 17/49 (35.0%)
* 2-Point FG: 12/31 (38.7%)
* 3-Point FG: 5/18 (28.0%)
* Free Throws: 15/18 (83.0%)
* Rebounds: 31
* Assists: 9
* Turnovers: 24
* Steals: 5
* Blocks: 2
Advanced Statistics
* SIUE: eFG% 58.6%, FT Rate 17.1%
* Eureka: eFG% 39.8%, FT Rate 36.7%
Context
This game was part of the non-conference schedule, with SIUE playing host to Eureka at their home venue, First Community Arena.
The tone of this win was clinical and decisive, showcasing SIUE's dominance over a visiting team that struggled to keep up.