Bryan Mullins was everywhere in this game, and his efforts registered a school record 22 on the 'play hard chart.' Mullins topped his previous record of 20, in a game where he also became the 2nd player in MVC history to reach 500 assists and 250 steals.Mullins play was key because Ryan Hare and Kevin Dillard both had off-nights, combining for only 8 points. Hare in particular looked to be out of sorts, and only played 5 minutes in the second half.
Chris Lowery was pleased that his senior guard was willing to step up when the game was on the line. "Bryan has so much equity in this program, he has to take the big-time shots" noted Lowery. It wasn't just big shots though, Mullins played one of his best all around games with 13 points, 10 assists, and 5 steals... and only one turnover.
Carlton Fay got going early, running the floor and beating his man for some easy buckets. The Saluki big men as a whole were able to consistently get easy baskets down low, and racked up 34 points in the paint. Mo. State head coach Cuonzo Martin said he wanted to limit the guards in this game, but because of the play of Mullins, something had to give, and the big men for SIU had success as a result.
Showdown for the '6 spot'
The Salukis head to Evansville on Saturday to take on the Aces, and the winner will have the inside track on a top-6 spot in the MVC.
The Salukis have a quick turnaround after their game was pushed back due to inclement weather, and now have less than 48 hours 'til tipoff. Evansville doesn't have things any easier though. The Aces also had their game at Drake pushed back to Thursday night and pulled off a thrilling 65-62 win in Des Moines. There's no doubt it's a big win for Evansville, but now they've got a long trip back home before the crucial match-up with SIU.
Photo Credit- SIU sports info dept.
