The 2006–07 Bears won 22 games under Hinson's leadership. However, of their 11 losses, five were to MVC foes Creighton and Southern Illinois, and the NCAA Tournament selection committee passed on inviting Missouri State to the big dance. MSU accepted a bid to the NIT for the third straight year. They were handed a home loss by San Diego State by the score of 74–70. Despite having won a modest 22 games, some fans were calling for Missouri State to replace Hinson. However, when the season was complete, MSU President Michael T. Nietzel called a press conference to announce that Hinson would remain as head coach.