The Missouri State Bears are set to embark on a new chapter in their basketball journey, as they travel to Delaware to face the Blue Hens in their first-ever meeting. With a strong lineup and a determined coach, the Bears are ready to make their mark in the Conference USA. Game Details: Date and Time: Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, at 1:02 p.m. (Central) Location: Bob Carpenter Center, Newark, Delaware (5,000 capacity) Tickets: Available at bluehens.evenue.net/event/MB26/MB06 or by calling (302) 831-2257 Radio: KWTO (FM 93.3 / AM 560) with Corey Riggs Television: ESPN+ with Scott Klatzkin and Bill Harman The Bears' Journey: The Missouri State Bears are fresh off a successful homestand, with a 6-5 record heading into this game. They are now set to begin their inaugural Conference USA campaign, facing a new challenge in Delaware. Key Players and Stats: Keith Palek III: A standout forward, Palek III ranks 4th in CUSA in scoring (18.0), 7th in rebounds (7.4), and tied for 10th in assists (3.3). Kobi Williams: Williams has been on fire, averaging 15.4 points over the last 5 contests. Cameron Boone: Boone leads the team in blocks, ranking 6th in CUSA with 14 total blocks. Michael Osei-Bonsu: After missing 3 games due to injury, Osei-Bonsu returned with a bang, scoring 19 points and grabbing 6 rebounds in the win over Lindenwood. The Coach: Cuonzo Martin, a seasoned coach with experience at MSU, Tennessee, California, and Missouri, has a strong record. He has a 279-226 (.552) career record and has led his teams to 9 postseason appearances, including 4 NCAA Tournament trips and a CIT title with the Bears in 2010. The Series: This is the first-ever meeting between Missouri State and Delaware, making it a historic moment for both teams. The Bears are eager to make a statement and establish themselves in the Conference USA. Controversial Take: While the Bears have a strong roster and a determined coach, the Blue Hens will be a formidable opponent. The game will be a true test of Missouri State's abilities and a chance to make a statement in the Conference USA. Thought-Provoking Question: Will the Missouri State Bears be able to make a strong statement in their Conference USA debut? Share your thoughts in the comments!
