Eastern Illinois wasted little time in showing Southeast Missouri State they meant business Tuesday night. The Panthers jumped out to an early 20-4 lead and led by 18 at the half before cruising to a 77-69 win.

Eastern Illinois shot the ball well all night, hitting on 57 percent from the field including 40 percent from 3-point range.

Romain Martin scored 17 points for EIU while Jake Byrne added a season-high 16 points.

SEMO received 17 points from freshman guard Roderick Pearson and 15 from Marcus Rhodes.