Get ready for an exciting basketball showdown as the Missouri State Bears take on the Lindenwood Lions in their final non-conference game of the season! This highly anticipated match-up is set to ignite the court on Tuesday, December 23rd, 2025, at the Great Southern Bank Arena.
The Battle for In-State Pride
With a record of 5-5, the Bears are eager to continue their recent surge in momentum before diving into conference play. And what better way to do that than by facing their in-state rivals, the Lindenwood Lions, who hold an impressive 8-4 record? This game promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with both teams bringing their A-game to the court.
A Look at the Home Court Advantage
The Bears have been dominating at the Great Southern Bank Arena this season, boasting a 5-2 record. With an average of 81.3 points per game and a solid scoring margin of +11.4, they've shown their prowess on their home turf. Additionally, their rebound and turnover margins of +4.4 and +3.3, respectively, highlight their all-around dominance.
The Star Players
Missouri State forward Keith Palek III has been on fire this season, ranking 3rd in CUSA in scoring with an impressive 18.4 points per game. He's also 7th in rebounding (7.3) and 6th in assists (3.6), making him the only player in the league to rank in the top 10 in all three categories. Palek's defensive prowess is also notable, ranking 44th nationally in defensive rebounds per game (6.00).
Zaxton King, a sophomore from Lawrence, Kan., has been a durable force on the court, playing in 88.2% of possible minutes this season. His minutes per game rank 3rd in CUSA (32.9), showcasing his reliability and endurance.
Free Throw Dominance
The Bears have been excelling at the free throw line, with 24.6% of their points coming from there this season. This ranks them 30th in Division I, showcasing their ability to capitalize on opportunities. Conversely, they've kept their fouls in check, committing only 16.1 per contest, which is 73rd-best in DI.
Up-and-Coming Talent
Antwan Burnett, a senior from Montgomery, Ala., made his MSU debut against Oral Roberts on December 16, 2025, contributing 5 points, 3 assists, 2 rebounds, and 2 steals in a 23-minute performance. With a solid background, having scored 582 points and grabbed 332 rebounds in 65 previous DI games at Troy and Grambling, Burnett is a valuable addition to the team.
Cameron Boone, a junior from East St. Louis, Ill., has been a defensive force despite limited playing time this season (92:29). Averaging 1.9 blocks per game in his 7 appearances, Boone would lead Conference USA if he qualified with enough games. His recent starts in MSU's last 3 contests (3.0 ppg, 2.3 rpg) have been impressive.
Kobi Williams has been on a hot streak, shooting 55% from the 3-point range in the last 4 games (11-for-20) and averaging 16.3 points per game during this span. He's scored in double figures 5 times in the last 6 contests, showcasing his consistency and skill.
Coach Cuonzo Martin: A Legend Returns
After an extensive national search, Missouri State University proudly announced the return of Cuonzo Martin as the men's basketball head coach on March 27, 2024. Martin, who orchestrated Missouri State's only MVC regular-season championship during his first tenure in Springfield, brings a wealth of experience and success to the team.
With a career record of 278-226 (.552) in his 16 seasons as a Division I head coach, Martin has led teams to 9 postseason appearances, including 4 NCAA Tournament trips and 4 NIT appearances. His CIT title with the Bears in 2010 further solidifies his coaching prowess.
In his second stint at Missouri State, Martin has compiled a 75-69 (.521) record, with an impressive home record of 54-21. His career also boasts 59 college graduates, a testament to his commitment to developing players both on and off the court.
Martin's impact on the program is undeniable, especially during his first tenure in Springfield. In his second season (2009-10), he guided the team to a remarkable 24-12 overall record and an impressive run to the CIT Postseason Tournament title. The following season (2010-11) was even more memorable, as the Bears claimed their first-ever MVC regular-season title with a 15-3 league record.
Martin's return in 2024-25 has brought a fresh energy to the team, despite the overall record not fully reflecting their performance. With 14 single-digit losses, the Bears have shown their potential and are ready to make a statement in their final season in the Missouri Valley.
So, basketball fans, mark your calendars for this highly anticipated game! Will the Bears continue their winning streak at home? Can they maintain their momentum heading into conference play? Find out on Tuesday, December 23rd, 2025, as the Missouri State Bears take on the Lindenwood Lions. Don't miss this thrilling showdown!
Accessibility Note: Missouri State University is dedicated to providing an inclusive and supportive environment for all. For reasonable disability accommodations, contact the Deputy Compliance Officer at (417) 836-6755 or DeputyComplianceOfficer@MissouriState.edu.
Follow the Bears' journey on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and don't forget to use the hashtags #WeAreMoState and #ItAllCounts!
Up Next: The Bears hit the road to face Delaware on Monday, December 29th, at 1:00 p.m. (Central). Then, they return home to host UTEP on Friday, January 2nd, at 7:00 p.m.
Stay tuned, and let's go, Bears!
