Florida International Edges Past Missouri State in Close Matchup

Panthers win 70-67 with late go-ahead 3-pointer from Corey Stephenson

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Florida International University's men's basketball team defeated Missouri State 70-67 in a close game on Saturday. Julian Mackey led the Panthers with 22 points, while Corey Stephenson hit the game-winning 3-pointer with just 4 seconds left on the clock. Kobi Williams scored 25 points for the Bears in the losing effort.

Why it matters

This was an important conference matchup between two teams looking to improve their records in Conference USA. The close finish and late heroics from Stephenson make this an exciting result that could impact the standings and playoff positioning for both squads as the season winds down.

The details

Florida International was led by Julian Mackey's 22 points on 8-of-16 shooting, including 2-of-7 from 3-point range. Corey Stephenson added 17 points and 6 rebounds, while Larry Olayinka chipped in 13 points and 8 boards. For Missouri State, Kobi Williams poured in a game-high 25 points to go with 3 steals, while Trey Williams Jr. scored 12 points in the losing effort. The game was close throughout, with FIU leading 29-22 at halftime before Missouri State made a push in the second half. Stephenson's late 3-pointer proved to be the difference.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 22, 2026.
  • Corey Stephenson hit the game-winning 3-pointer with just 4 seconds remaining in the contest.

The players

Julian Mackey

A key player for the Florida International Panthers, scoring a team-high 22 points in the win.

Corey Stephenson

Hit the go-ahead 3-pointer with 4 seconds left to lift Florida International to victory.

Kobi Williams

The leading scorer for Missouri State, pouring in a game-high 25 points in the losing effort.

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What they’re saying

“This was a hard-fought game and I'm proud of the way our team battled until the end. Corey's shot was huge and really shows the kind of competitive spirit we have on this team.”

— Julian Mackey, Florida International Player

“We had our chances but just couldn't quite get over the hump. Hats off to FIU, they made the plays when it counted most down the stretch.”

— Kobi Williams, Missouri State Player

What’s next

Both teams will look to build on this result as they continue their conference schedules. Florida International will face off against UAB next, while Missouri State takes on Loyola Chicago.

The takeaway

This close game between two Conference USA foes showcased the competitive balance and exciting finishes that make college basketball so compelling. The late heroics from Stephenson and overall strong performances from key players on both sides made this an entertaining matchup that could have implications on the conference standings moving forward.