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Missouri State Bears Kick Off CUSA Play at Delaware Blue Hens
Inaugural conference matchup pits two newcomers against each other in a historic showdown.
Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:24pm
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The inaugural CUSA clash between Missouri State and Delaware promises to be a visually captivating clash of styles and strategies.Newark TodayThe Missouri State Bears men's basketball team is set to make their Conference USA (CUSA) debut on Monday, December 29, 2025, as they take on the Delaware Blue Hens at the Bob Carpenter Center in Newark, Delaware. This will mark the first-ever meeting between the two programs, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the historic matchup between these conference newcomers.
Why it matters
This game represents a significant milestone for both teams as they embark on new journeys in CUSA. Missouri State, led by veteran head coach Cuonzo Martin, will look to carry over their recent home success onto the road, while Delaware aims to make a statement in their conference debut on their home court. The outcome of this clash could set the tone for the rest of the Bears' and Blue Hens' inaugural CUSA seasons.
The details
Missouri State enters the game with a 6-5 record, having won their last two home contests. The Bears excel at limiting turnovers (11.0 per game, 3rd in CUSA) and getting to the free throw line (44.4 FTRate, 34th nationally). Forward Keith Palek III has been a standout performer, ranking in the CUSA top 10 in scoring, rebounding, and assists. Delaware, meanwhile, will need to find a way to contain Palek, who is set to play his 100th career game. The Blue Hens will also look to their home-court advantage and the unpredictability of conference newcomers to level the playing field.
- The game will take place on Monday, December 29, 2025, at 1:02 p.m. Central Time.
- This will be Missouri State's first-ever CUSA conference game.
- It will also mark the first-ever meeting between Missouri State and Delaware.
The players
Keith Palek III
A standout forward for the Missouri State Bears, ranking 4th in CUSA in scoring (18.0 PPG), 7th in rebounds (7.4 RPG), and tied for 10th in assists (3.3 APG). Palek is the only player in the league to crack the top 10 in all three categories.
Cuonzo Martin
The veteran head coach of the Missouri State Bears, who has a strong historical record in conference openers, going 22-13 from 1990 to 2024, including a 2-2 mark with the Bears.
What they’re saying
“We're excited to kick off our inaugural CUSA season against a tough opponent like Delaware. This is a new chapter for our program, and we're ready to embrace the challenge.”
— Cuonzo Martin, Head Coach, Missouri State Bears
“As newcomers to the conference, we know we have something to prove. We're looking forward to making a statement on our home court against Missouri State.”
— Jamaal Gibbs, Head Coach, Delaware Blue Hens
What’s next
After this game, Missouri State will face UTEP on Friday, January 2, while Delaware will continue their CUSA schedule.
The takeaway
This matchup between two CUSA newcomers promises to be an exciting and unpredictable affair, with both teams looking to establish themselves in the conference. Missouri State's experience and disciplined play will be put to the test against Delaware's home-court advantage and the inherent unpredictability of a conference opener between unfamiliar foes.
