Dons Notes: Breaking Down San Francisco’s Non-Conference Schedule

Mar 9, 2013; St. Louis, MO, USA; The Illinois State Redbirds fans attempt to distract Wichita State Shockers center Ehimen Orukpe (21) during the semifinals of the Missouri Valley Conference tournament at Scottrade Center. The Shockers defeated the Redbirds 66-51. Mandatory Credit: Paul Halfacre-USA TODAY Sports

Illinois State Redbirds

GOLDEN GATE CHALLENGE

Saturday, November 30th. San Francisco, California.

Last Season: 18-15 (8-10 Missouri Valley Conference)

The Dons conclude the Hilltop Challenge against Illinois State. The Redbirds will travel to San Francisco over Thanksgiving break after the “Hoops for Hope Classic” in Puerto Vallarta panned out due to a scheduling conflict. The Redbirds have never played at War Memorial Gym, but do have a 1-0 record over the Dons after a win in the 1985 “Cowboy Shootout” in Laramie, Wyoming.

During the off-season, Illinois State head coach, Dan Muller, announced that he had dismissed senior guard Bryant Allen for violating team rules. According to Illinois State Police, Allen was earlier charged with charged with possession of marijuana and delivery, driving on a suspended license, and disregarding a stop sign. ISU also lost three seniors to graduation and another player via transfer. This leaves the Redbirds with no returning starters from the 2012-2013 season. ISU will only return two players with D-1 experience.