Breaking a four game losing streak was not easy for the Salukis, but a strong hustling effort put forth by senior forward Jaratio Tucker helped the Dawgs defeat Indiana State to end their four game losing streak.

Tucker played 34 minutes and scored 8 points, with 4 rebounds, and one assist in a winning cause. Tucker, who is nursing a hurt leg and did not practice Tuesday, was all over the floor as he shot 40 percent from the floor.

In the second half the Salukis switched to a full court defense to shut ISU’s offense down. Tucker hit an open floor lay up that sealed the victory and put them up by 16 with 6:58 left.

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Tucker said he has trust in his teammates, and the win was important for them.

We have a lot weapons, and there is a different person stepping up every night, he said .

Tucker said he is willing to do whatever it takes to help the team win.

I’ll play any position the team needs me to play, he said. As far as me going inside, that frees Scottie on the outside, and that opens it up for the rest of the guys, he said.

Coach Herrin said he was not sure if Tucker would practice Friday, but was pleased with his effort.

Tucker was pretty banged up, but he came to play basketball for us, Herrin said.