NORMAL, Ill. – The Illinois State men’s basketball team returned to CEFCU Arena after a two-game road trip and delivered a strong performance against the Rockford Regents. Every Redbird saw playing time and contributed on the scoreboard.
Freshmen Tyreek Coleman and Mason Klabo combined for 18 points and impressed ISU head coach Ryan Pedon.
“I just think both have the ‘It’ factor. They are talented, really good players, but I think they have the ‘It’ factor,” Pedon said.
ISU played without center Chase Walker, who is recovering from a calf injury. In his absence, sixth-year center Brandon Lieb stepped up, finishing with a career high 10 points and securing a double-double. Lieb said he has seen strong chemistry developing within the team.
“I just think this group of guys has built a great culture. The guys gel together so well,” Lieb said. “We are trying to form a blue-collar type culture here with Coach Pedon.”
Pedon added that Lieb’s experience brings maturity to a young roster.
“He is a smart young man, and he is a team guy all the way,” Pedon said.
The Redbirds defeated Rockford 93 to 48. Their next game is on November 23 when they face Coastal Carolina.