SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (Interstat) — Keith Palek scored 18 points and dished six assists to lead Missouri State to a 74-67 victory over Jacksonville State in a Conference USA men’s basketball game Saturday at JQH Arena.

The Bears improved to 13-9 overall, while the Gamecocks fell to 11-10. Missouri State used a 39-31 halftime lead as a cushion, maintaining control despite Jacksonville State’s second-half push. The Bears capitalized on turnovers, scoring 21 points off 17 Gamecocks giveaways.

Palek’s all-around effort was supported by Trey Williams with 14 points. Jacksonville State was led by JaCoby Hill with 16 points and Iaroslav Niagu with 13. The Gamecocks struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 2 for 14. Attendance was 2,634.