A night to remember for Cleanthony Early led Wichita State to an 82-76 win over Southern Illinois on Wednesday. Early scored 39 points to lead the Shockers to the home victory.
In the victory, Early shot 13-for-19 from the field and made five three-pointers. The junior shattered his previous career-high of 25 points.
The win improved Wichita State's overall record to 15-1, and gave the team its 16th straight victory at home.
The Shockers were put on upset alert early, as they trailed Southern Illinois, 43-34, at the half. But a 10-0 run to start the second half helped Wichita State get back in control of the game. By the end of the half, the team had scored 48 points.
In defeat, senior Desmar Jackson was able to score 28 points for Southern Illinois.
Wichita State will hit the road on Sunday to play Evansville, while the Salukis host Indiana State on Saturday.