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Redbirds Face 49ers in Thanksgiving Basketball Showdown

11/27/2025

33 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Illinois State University men's basketball team faces the Charlotte 49ers at the Terry's Chocolate ESPN Events Invitational in Kissimmee, Florida on Thanksgiving Day.
The matchup features two recent College Basketball Invitational champions: Illinois State (last season) and Charlotte (2023).
Freshman Ty'Reek Coleman has started strong.
The Redbirds defeated Coastal Carolina by 52 points, ahead of a game broadcast on ESPN2 at 12:30 p.m. (CT).

History

Historical Context

The 2016 College Basketball Invitational (CBI) marked a pivotal moment for Illinois State, as they triumphed over the Miami Hurricanes, showcasing their competitive spirit in a tournament designed for teams not selected for the NCAA Tournament. This trend of competitive parity continued with Charlotte's 2023 CBI victory, reflecting the evolving landscape of NCAA basketball where emerging programs gain national recognition.

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Story summary

The Illinois State University men's basketball team faces the Charlotte 49ers at the Terry's Chocolate ESPN Events Invitational in Kissimmee, Florida on Thanksgiving Day.
The matchup features two recent College Basketball Invitational champions: Illinois State (last season) and Charlotte (2023).
Freshman Ty'Reek Coleman has started strong.
The Redbirds defeated Coastal Carolina by 52 points, ahead of a game broadcast on ESPN2 at 12:30 p.m. (CT).

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