SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - D.J. Balentine sank a game-winning jumper in the final seconds as Evansville got past Missouri State 56-54 on Wednesday night.
Balentine's winning goal came with six seconds to go and the score tied at 54.
Egidijus Mockevicius then blocked a jumper by Missouri State's Dorrian Williams as time ran out to preserve the lead and the victory.
Mockevicius posted a double-double, scoring 14 points and grabbing 12 rebounds to lead the Purple Aces (13-4, 3-2 Missouri Valley Conference). Mislav Brzoja added 18 points and five rebounds and Jaylon Brown had 10.
Evansville jumped to a 13-3 first-period advantage and led 31-25 at the break. Missouri State went 15-6 to start the second half to a 40-37 edge with 12:08 to play.
The teams remained close the remainder of the contest.
Williams led the Bears (8-9, 2-3) with 15 points, five rebounds and five assists.