Starting about the time most current Illinois State and Southern Illinois players were born, the Redbirds and Salukis dominated conference play and consistently were at the top of the league. Now, both groups are fighting for Missouri Valley Conference respect as they square-off at 2:05 p.m. Sunday in SIU Arena. The Redbirds are 3-12 overall, 1-5 in the Valley, while SIU is 4-11 and 0-6 in league play.
In the 1980s, either Jill Hutchison's Redbirds or Cindy Scott's Saluki clubs won or shared every league title. Both coaches have retired, but the rivalry they started still counts to this generation of players.
Redbird guard
Steph Reichle, a Lincoln native, looks forward to some of the rivalries which began among players while still in high school and continue in college, including herself and former Nokomis star Molly McDowell of SIU.
"I remember Molly McDowell from high school," said Reichle. "We both had the opportunity to play in Redbird Arena (in the IHSA Finals). But now, playing SIU is about getting a win we need for conference."
SIU, led by point guard Holly Teague (12.9 points, 4.3 assists) and McDowell (13.4 points, 4.5 rebounds), is trying to snap out of an eight-game losing streak--which matches the longest in program history. The last Saluki win came Dec. 8 against Tennessee State. Lately, the Salukis have struggled defensively, allowing more than 78 points per game during the losing streak.
Redbird coach
Jenny Yopp believes her own team's defense will dictate its offensive opportunities.
"We will focus on the defensive end because aggressive defense gives our offense the best chances for transition baskets, getting the ball inside and getting to the free throw line," said Yopp, whose team has lost 14 straight away from home dating back to last season. "Playing at our tempo is really important. They have strong depth at all positions, so it's critical for all of our players to step up and contribute."
Illinois State, despite playing without sophomore center
Sharon Blade (foot injury) has shot better lately, hitting 49 percent over its last two games with post players
Kristi Larson (12-21) and
Michelle Harakas (5-9) leading the way. The Redbirds had been shooting just 36 percent until those last two games, which include a victory over conference leader Creighton.
Confidence is the key, according to Yopp.
"I believe that scoring comes with confidence and confidence comes with experience," said Yopp. "As our team has gained experience, it has gained confidence. That's what it takes to put the ball in the basket. Decision-making is a big part of it. We have young players who are still developing the experience which produces the confidence that makes good decision-making. We're showing it more frequently."
Even though ISU has a 34-31 lead in the series, the Redbirds have lost 14 of 15 at SIU Arena since 1990. Illinois State returns home to Redbird Arena to play Wichita State at 7:05 p.m. Thursday.
