Rebounding was the key for SIU in their 15 point victory over St. Mary's. Randal Falker pulled down 12 boards and Matt Shaw grabbed 9 of his own. Together Shaw, Falker, and Tony Boyle out rebounded the entire St. Mary's team.
Bryan Mullins put together an outstanding game, fighting foul trouble to score 24 points and handing out 5 assists.
Give credit to Tyrone Green, he was able to kick in 9 points off the bench, providing a nice boost to a previously struggling offense.
This win was a badly needed NCAA Tournament resume builder for the Salukis. When tournament time comes a win over St. Mary's could help Southern make a case for a top 6 seed.
If SIU can win 3 of their final 4 non-conference games they would head into Valley play at 7-4 with an outstanding RPI. With their strength of schedule 7-4 would have to be considered a successful start to the season.
The Saint Louis Billikens are up next and they have struggled to a 6-5 record in their first 11 games. Head Coach Rick Majerus has admitted it might have been a mistake to schedule so many games early in the season while simultaneously trying to teach his team a new style of play. SIU will be the favorite in this game despite their struggles in the ScottTrade Center.
After SLU the Salukis head to Western Michigan next Tuesday for a matchup with the Broncos who are currently trying to break a 3 game losing streak of their own. Then it's two very difficult home contests against Western Kentucky and #18 Butler. Running the table in these games could get SIU back into the Top 25.
Regardless of what happens over the next two weeks SIU will be battle tested when Missouri State comes to town to start conference play on Dec 30th.
