Normal, Illinois, is set to host a pivotal matchup in Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) basketball as the Belmont Bruins take on the Illinois State Redbirds on Saturday, March 1, 2026. The game, scheduled for 5:00 PM CT at CEFCU Arena, will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network. This Belmont vs Illinois State game is a key contest as both teams navigate the final stretch of the regular season and jockey for position in the upcoming MVC Tournament.
Belmont enters the game with an impressive 26-4 overall record and a 16-3 mark in conference play, positioning them at the top of the MVC standings. Illinois State, meanwhile, holds a 19-11 overall record and an 11-8 record in the MVC. Both teams have secured two wins apiece in their recent contests, setting the stage for a competitive finish to the regular season.
Game Details and Broadcast Information
The contest between the Bruins and the Redbirds is scheduled for 8:00 PM GMT. Fans can watch the game live on CBS Sports Network. Tickets for the game are available for purchase, with prices starting as low as $23 through VividSeats. Tickets are available online.
Belmont Bruins @ Illinois State Redbirds
Belmont Bruins
BEL 26-4, 16-3 MVC
ILST -1.5
CBSSN
Illinois State Redbirds
Illinois St ILST 19-11, 11-8 MVC
Team Standings and Conference Outlook
As of March 1, 2026, Belmont leads the Missouri Valley Conference with a 16-3 record. Murray State follows with a 12-7 record, while Bradley and UIC are tied at 12-7. Illinois State sits at 11-8, and Valparaiso is at 11-9. The competitive landscape of the MVC highlights the importance of each game as teams strive to improve their seeding for the conference tournament. Current MVC standings are available on ESPN.
Here’s a seem at the current MVC standings:
| Team | Conf. Record | Overall Record |
|---|---|---|
| Belmont | 16-3 | 26-4 |
| Murray State | 12-7 | 20-10 |
| Bradley | 12-7 | 19-11 |
| UIC | 12-7 | 17-13 |
| Illinois State | 11-8 | 19-11 |
Key Players and Recent Performances
Belmont is led by T. Lundblade, who averages 15.7 points per game, and C. Walker, who contributes 13.7 points per game. For Illinois State, C. Walker leads the scoring with 15.7 points per game, and J. Kinziger adds 13.7 points per game. Recent results show Belmont securing wins against Evansville (98-64) and Indiana State (87-70), while Illinois State has recently defeated UNI (71-69) and Bradley (74-60).
According to ESPN Analytics, Belmont has a 58.1% chance of winning the game, while Illinois State has a 41.9% chance. The spread is set at Belmont -1.5, with an over/under of 150.5 points. Live score and stats will be available on ESPN during the game.
Team Statistics Comparison
Belmont boasts a strong offensive output, averaging 84.4 points per game, while holding opponents to 72.2 points. They shoot 52% from the field and 36.5% from three-point range. Illinois State averages 75.7 points per game and allows 68.1, with a field goal percentage of 47%.
Here’s a breakdown of key team statistics:
- Belmont: 84.4 Points, 72.2 Points Against, 52% Field Goal %, 36.5% Rebounds, 18.5 Assists, 3.5 Blocks, 6.3 Steals
- Illinois State: 75.7 Points, 68.1 Points Against, 47% Field Goal %, 36.2 Rebounds, 13.6 Assists, 2.3 Blocks, 5.7 Steals
The outcome of this game will have significant implications for both teams as they approach the conclusion of the regular season and prepare for the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament. Fans can stay updated on the game’s progress through live coverage on CBS Sports Network and ESPN. The next scheduled game for both teams will be announced following the conclusion of Saturday’s contest.
Share your thoughts on the upcoming game and your predictions in the comments below.
