Illinois State takes over 3rd in Missouri Valley with 67-63 win at Creighton

Illinois State edges Creighton 67-63

OMAHA, Neb. — Osiris Eldridge and Dinma Odiakosa scored 12 points each as Illinois State edged Creighton 67-63 on Saturday.

The victory allowed the Redbirds (18-8, 9-6) to move into third place in the Missouri Valley Conference. The Bluejays (13-13, 8-7) lost at home for just the second time this season.

There were three ties and 14 lead changes in the second half — 11 during an 11-minute stretch in which neither team led by more than three.

Odiakosa finally broke that string by giving Illinois State a 60-55 advantage with 4:11 to play. The Redbirds extended their lead to seven on a steal and breakaway basket by Lloyd Phillips with 3:47 left.

Trailing by two, the Bluejays turned the ball over on their final possession without getting off a shot. Phillips then sealed the game with two free throws.

Kenny Lawson had 20 points for Creighton to lead all scorers.