Jamil Ferrer | March 10, 2026

Postseason tournaments got underway today with an intense C-USA tournament battle between No. 9 Missouri State Bears Men’s Basketball Team and No. 8 FIU Panthers Men’s Basketball Team. 

The Panthers fell short Tuesday night to the Bears in a close 75-72 game which took place at the Propst Area in Huntsville Alabama.

Starting the game off, FIU controlled the first half, playing at their own pace before building a slightly comfortable five point 36-31 lead before the half. Mostly attacking the paint to get their buckets.

Yet, Missouri State ultimately responded in the second half, improving their offensive gameplan and execution. The Bears found themselves outscoring FIU 44-36, slowly chipping away their lead bucket by bucket.

The Bears began knocking down perimeter shots and capitalizing on second-chance points, resulting in them taking their first lead of the half with just under ten minutes remaining.

As time winded down in the second half, possessions became crucial; Missouri State capitalized on FIU being in foul trouble by draining their free throws. The Bears also had a few defensive stops to keep FIU’s offensive momentum to a halt.

Despite a late push by the Panthers, Missouri State held on to their narrow lead, resulting in a 75-72 victory for the No. 9 ranked Bears.

FIU Senior Guard Corey Stephenson put up his best efforts in trying to get his team the win, with 24 points, 10 rebounds, and 1 assist. While Missouri State Junior Guard Kobi Williams had a great contribution in the team’s success, with 15 points, and 2 assists.

Missouri State now faces No. 1 seed Liberty University, fighting as the underdog for a chance to compete in the C-USA Championship, which provides an automatic berth in the NCAA Tournament.

As FIU’s season ended unexpectedly, the Panthers stayed positive and remained resilient through a tough year filled with ups and downs. It only gives them more time to prepare for the next season ahead.

Cover Photo Via FIU Athletics