![Bench630](https://www.wjbc.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/389/2016/02/Bench6302.jpg)
By Austin Duncan
NORMAL, Ill- Southern Illinois picked up its fifth consecutive win as Illinois State dropped its fifth straight as the Salukis handed the Redbirds a 68-55 loss at Redbird Arena.
The Redbirds led just once, early in the game collecting the first basket on a Sue Crump 3-pointer.
Southern Illinois led 32-26 at halftime.
The Salukis used a 16-9 third quarter to pull away.
The Redbirds were led in scoring by Shakeela Fowler’s 13 points, while Normal West product Lexi Taylor added 12.
Illinois State returns to action Sunday when Evansville comes to Redbird Arena for a 2 p.m. tip.
Listen to postgame comments from head coach Barb Smith here.