Missouri State turned in its best performance of the season despite coming up with the three-point loss.
The Bears (2-2) came up short at No. 21 Xavier 59-56 after the Musketeers scored three points in a controversial final minute.
There were more things to be encouraged by in this loss than in its previous two wins. MSU will look to build on that as it plays in next week's Charleston Classic.
"This is the first time all year I've been excited about the team," Bears head coach Dana Ford told Art Hains after the game.