The Eastern Illinois men’s basketball team is preparing for a highly anticipated match against the formidable No. 5 Kansas team. This upcoming game will be their second encounter with a Top 25 team this season. Despite their current record of 3-4, the Panthers are poised and ready to embrace the challenge, following their recent home victory against Eureka College. The team is now embarking on a series of five out of six home games, which will provide them with a familiar and supportive environment at Groniger Arena.
On the other hand, the Kansas team boasts a commendable record of 5-1 and recently secured third place at the Maui Invitational. Although the Jayhawks were initially projected to hold the top position, they have now settled at No. 5/6 in the latest poll. The Panthers’ journey began with a defeat against No. 25 Illinois, setting the stage for their upcoming encounter.
Transfer forward Kooper Jacobi has been pivotal for the Panthers, leading the team in both scoring and rebounding with an average of 11.1 points per game and 7.4 rebounds per game. His recent performance against Eureka College, where he narrowly missed securing a double-double, showcases his consistent impact on the game. Furthermore, head coach Marty Simmons achieved a significant milestone as the victory over Eureka College marked his 300th career win as a college head coach. Simmons, who has held coaching positions at four different schools, has cultivated an impressive and diverse career in collegiate basketball.
The upcoming game against the UHSP on December 2 is highly anticipated, as the Panthers continue to strive for success in the league.