ISU sophomores Kinziger, Pence to return
NORMAL, Ill. (WMBD/WYZZ) — Illinois State's basketball program received good news on Wednesday.
Sophomores Johnny Kinziger and Ty Pence are staying home. They both announced they will return to ISU for their junior seasons.
'The chemistry that I have with the guys this year, all these guys are coming back. I really think we can do something special. I want to be part of that,' Kinziger said Wednesday night at halftime of the women's basketball game at CEFCU Arena.
The 5-11 guard started all 35 games as was second on the team in scoring, averaging 14.6 points and 3.9 rebounds for ISU. The Redbirds closed the season by winning the College Basketball Invitational title last week.
'I love each and every one of these guys, I mean that. Coach (Ryan Pedon) says it every day, 'You win with people.' I just think the people in this community are the best. That's why I said all along I'm very happy,' Kinziger said.
Pence had a big sophomore season after struggling as a sophomore. He averaged 7.4 points and 4.0 points and was named to the CBI all-tournament team.
'This is always the place where I've wanted to be. We have something great building. It really is the whole family aspect here,' said Pence. 'Our seniors talked to the younger guys at the end of the year, they just talked to us and said there really isn't any other place like this.'
The Redbirds went 22-14 in Pedon's third season, winning the first postseason title in program history. Sophomore Chase Walker, a first team all-Missouri Valley Conference selection, announced his return last month.
Freshman Jack Daughtery announced on Tuesday that he would return for his second year with the program.
'I'm so proud of our players, individually and collectively. They see something they really believe in. They come together and want to stay and be a part of something special,' said Pedon. 'To me, that's the essence of team.'
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