Estimated read time: Five minutes
The game did not count.
But, the Missouri State men’s basketball team kicked off the 2017-18 season with a 78-62 loss in a charity game against the Kansas State Wildcats Oct. 21.
The teams organized the exhibition to provide support for the American Red Cross’ hurricane relief efforts.
The Bears impressed against Kansas State — a 23-win, NCAA Tournament team from a season ago — even without their star senior.
Yes, even losing by 16 points, Missouri State impressed, as it trailed by just six points with 3:41 remaining in the contest — without its best player.