Elbows were flying and bodies were hitting the floor in the first half, just the type of game the Salukis are known for.
Southern was ice cold to start the game but they were able to grind out a 22-20 advantage at intermission.
UNI had a 7-0 lead to start the game when Matt Shaw nailed a ‘3’ to put the Salukis on the board with just 15 minutes remaining. Bone followed with a jumper to pull the dawgs within 2.
Moments later Matt Shaw nearly landed in my lap on press row, while barreling towards a loose ball. The Salukis still weren’t hitting shots but they kept the game close with solid defense and hustle plays.
In the final moments of the half Southern forced a shot clock violation on UNI, earning the last possession of the half. Mullins milked the clock and hit Josh Bone with a pass on the baseline that Bone deposited in the basket to give SIU a 2 point lead at the break.
If Southern can step up their shooting percentage just a tick, they should be able to pull this one out in the second half.
