SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (Interstat) — Keith Palek scored 22 points to guide Missouri State to a 79-71 victory over Florida International in a Conference USA men’s basketball game Saturday at JQH Arena.

The Bears, who improved to 10-6, used a 10-for-31 performance from 3-point range and capitalized on 19 free throws to secure the win before a crowd of 2,210. The Golden Panthers fell to 9-7 despite a game-high 18 points from Julian Mackey and a 42-20 advantage in points in the paint.

Missouri State led 35-30 at halftime and maintained control throughout the second half. Florida International’s 4-for-18 shooting from beyond the arc and 11-for-19 mark at the foul line hindered its comeback effort. The Bears’ offense proved more efficient, scoring 79 points on 74 possessions.