The Missouri State Bears represent Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri. With a tradition of NCAA Tournament appearances in 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1992, and 1999—reaching the Sweet 16 in 1999—the program has a storied past of postseason competitiveness. The Bears also hold NIT appearances spanning three decades (1986, 1991, 1993, 1997, 2000, 2005, 2006, 2007) and captured a 2010 CIT title, underscoring a program with resilience and consistent competitive drive.
In 2024, Cuonzo Martin returned to lead the program, bringing experience, defensive emphasis, and a vision for sustained success. As the Bears prepare for their first season in Conference USA in 2025–26, the team is building toward a new chapter while honoring its MVC-era successes, including an MVC regular-season championship in 2011. Home games are played at the Great Southern Bank Arena in Springfield, MO, a venue known for its energetic atmosphere and capacity for a full-throated college basketball experience.