UIS men's basketball returns to TRAC this week for a pair of conference games, first hosting Rockhurst on Thursday at 7:30 p.m., followed by Southwest Baptist on Saturday at 3:00 p.m. Both contests are part of doubleheaders with the UIS women's team and coincide with a full slate of fan-focused events, including Spring Welcome activities for UIS students and the Cardinals Caravan on Saturday.

Illinois Springfield (10-5, 6-1 GLVC)
The Prairie Stars opened last week in strong fashion with a 91-60 win over Quincy, reclaiming the BOS Traveling Cup. UIS shot over 60 percent from the field and from three-point range, knocking down 11 threes, including four apiece from Adidas Davis and Isaiah Davis.

UIS then suffered its first conference loss of the season on Saturday, falling 66-65 at Truman State. A slow start from the starting lineup proved costly, though Britton Dutton and Jorden Williams provided key sparks off the bench.

UIS leads the GLVC in three-point field goal percentage (40.9%) and averages 9.9 made threes per game, setting up a compelling matchup against Rockhurst, which allows a league-low 30.0 percent shooting from beyond the arc.

Jordan Rice continues to pace the Prairie Stars, ranking top five in the GLVC in scoring at 18.6 points per game while also sitting third in assists (5.0 per game).

Rockhurst (11-4, 5-2 GLVC)
Rockhurst enters the week riding a three-game GLVC winning streak, highlighted by an 85-79 win over UMSL and a 104-65 victory against Maryville last weekend. The Hawks pulled away from UMSL with a 23-12 run midway through the second half after a tightly contested opening half. Against Maryville, Drenin Dinkins powered the Hawks with 35 points, including six three-pointers.

Rockhurst leads the GLVC in scoring average (89.2 ppg) and field goal percentage (48.1%), narrowly ahead of UIS (48.0%). The Hawks also rely heavily on their efficiency at the free-throw line, shooting 77.5 percent and leading the league with 316 made free throws, more than 50 ahead of any other GLVC team.

Southwest Baptist (9-6, 3-4 GLVC)
Southwest Baptist opened last week with a 70-62 overtime win over Lincoln, pulling away at the free-throw line after the game was tied at 58 at the end of regulation. The Bearcats followed with a 78-46 loss to UMSL, struggling from three-point range (1-for-12). Ball control proved to be a challenge in the loss.

SBU ranks third in the GLVC in two defensive categories, allowing just 67 points per game, and limiting opponents to 40.4 percent shooting from the field.

GLVC Outlook
With seven weeks remaining in the GLVC regular season, Upper Iowa sits atop the standings at 7-0, followed closely by UIS at 6-1. Rockhurst currently holds fourth place at 5-2, while Southwest Baptist sits just outside the top eight as the race for the GLVC Tournament heats up.

Follow Along
UIS men's basketball games are streamed live on the GLVC Sports Network, with live statistics available through the links on the UIS men's basketball schedule.

Promotions & Fan Engagement
Thursday's home game features Teacher Appreciation Night, with free admission for teachers and one guest by presenting a school ID at the ticket gate. Youth Camp Night will also welcome UIS basketball summer campers back to TRAC, offering free admission for campers and discounted $5 tickets for parents.

UIS Athletics will also host Chamber on Tap, the Chamber of Commerce's monthly networking event, providing food, drinks, and a casual environment for building connections. Admission is $5 for Chamber members and $15 for non-members.

Saturday's game highlights Faith & Family Day, presented by Springfield Business Men in Christ, which includes a postgame meal and concert. Fans can also enjoy the Cardinals Caravan, bringing a St. Louis Cardinals fan experience to TRAC for ticketholders.

As always, UIS basketball games feature interactive in-game promotions, including the putting contest and half-court shot, offering fans chances to win prizes throughout the game.