July 24, 2008

DELTA STATE TABS ELLIS MEN’S BASKETBALL ASSISTANT

CLEVELAND – Brian Ellis is certainly no stranger to Delta State University or the Gulf South Conference.  The knowledge and expertise Ellis has gained as a player and coach in the conference is the reason Delta State men’s basketball head coach Jason Conner tabbed Ellis to be his assistant on Thursday.  Ellis replaces Chico Potts, who left the program in June. 

“Brian is an excellent young coach with tremendous potential.  He is a tough recruiter and he knows the game of basketball.  I believe he will be a great fit for my staff and this program,” Conner stated. 

The Pensacola, Fla., native spent the past two seasons as a graduate assistant on coach Conner’s staff.  During that stint, the Statesmen went 32-22 on the court and advanced to the 2006-07 GSC Tournament in Southaven.  Last season, the men’s program posted a 14-12 record overall and narrowly missed a second-straight berth into the GSC’s postseason clash.  His duties as the top assistant will include: scheduling, team travel, recruiting, and on-court coaching.

“I’m excited about the opportunity coach Conner has given me and my family.  Delta State is a special place to be and I will work hard to see the men’s basketball program become all that it can be,” Ellis said. 

Ellis played two seasons for the Argonauts of the University of West Florida.  While at UWF, Ellis earned a bachelor’s degree in sports management in 2006.  Last December, he completed his master’s degree in sports administration from Delta State University.  He is married to the former Courtney Moran of Pensacola, Fla. 

April 21, 2008

STATESMEN BASKETBALL ADDS MALIQI AND PIRSHIN TO 2008 SIGNING CLASS

By Michael Nienaber, Men’s Basketball Contact

CLEVELAND – Delta State University head men’s basketball coach Jason Conner announced the signing of Arian Maliqi and Dmitry Pirshin, two junior college transfers from Gulf Coast Community College ( Florida), on Monday. Maliqi and Pirshin are the first two players to ink with the Statesmen so far this season.

“Arian and Dmitry bring instant offense and toughness to our program that we definitely need. Both players are skilled around the basket and both have received excellent coaching at Gulf Coast Community College,” stated Conner.

Arian Maliqi, a 6-foot-6 guard from Pristina, Kosovo, started 29 games for the Commodores last season averaging 6.7 points and 2.8 rebounds. Maliqi also connected on 53-percent of his three-point shots last season.

Dmitry Pirshin, a 6-7 forward from Moscow, Russia, started in 29 games in his final season in junior college, averaging 4.1 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. He is also accomplished off the court. Pirshin is a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society, and attended Moscow Engineering School before coming to the United States.

March 1, 2008

STATESMEN TAKE CARE OF WINLESS REDDIES, 91-78

By Michael Nienaber – Men’s Basketball Contact

• Box Score

CLEVELAND – The Delta State Statesmen (14-12, 8-6 Gulf South) defeated the Reddies of Henderson State (3-23, 0-14 Gulf South), 91-78, Saturday night on Senior Day at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Tonight was the final home game for Anthony Fizer, Ray Selvage, as well as student assistant and former Statesmen, Brian Jenkins. The win was not enough for the Statesmen to clinch a spot in the upcoming Gulf South Conference Tournament next week in Southaven.

The Statesmen scored the first bucket of the night on a three-pointer from Anthony Fizer and did not look back. DSU closed the half on a 15-7 run to take a 37-29 lead into the locker room. Neither team shot particularly well. DSU went 44-percent from the floor and 25-percent from behind the arc. Henderson was 36, and 33 on their side. The Statesmen were able to take advantage on the boards, however, out-rebounding the Reddies 26-15 in the half.

Once the second half got underway the Statesmen wasted no time in extending their lead out to as many as 17. The Reddies played hard to get back in the game, but were never able to come closer than seven, as the Statesmen continued to make critical baskets to keep their lead secured.

The Statesmen were led on the night by Earnesto Green with 19 points and eight rebounds. Chad Akins, Anthony Fizer, Brad Skipper and Eric Spencer also scored in double-figures with 14, 13, 12 and 11 points respectively. Antoine Vinson led the Reddies with a game-high 22 points and three rebounds in the game.

Delta State shot 53-percent (33-of-62) from the floor, 33-percent (8-of-24) from three-point range, and 74-percent (17-of-23) from the charity stripe. HSU went 43, 45, and 77-percent on their side of the ledger.

The Statesmen closed out the regular season 14-12. It's the first time since the 2003-04 season that DSU has not made the GSC Tournament field.

February 28, 2008 – For Immediate Release

STATESMEN DROP LAST SECOND HEART-BREAKER AT TECH, 79-76

by Michael Nienaber – Men’s Basketball Contact

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – The Delta State men’s basketball team (13-12, 7-6 Gulf South) fell to the Wonder Boys of Arkansas Tech University (16-9, 7-5 Gulf South), 79-76, Thursday at Tucker Coliseum. The loss put the Statesmen’s playoff hopes in jeopardy, but a win Saturday over Henderson State could still get DSU in due to tiebreakers.

The Statesmen battled the Wonder Boys back-and-forth throughout the entire period. In a half that saw the lead change hands seven times, with neither team able to get more than six points apart, the Wonder Boys took a 41-39 lead into the locker room at the break. Justin Duke’s play was critical for the Statesmen. He collected 11 points in the frame.

The Statesmen continued to fight in the second half. A David Clark three with 2:30 remaining tied the game at 70, after DSU had trailed for most of the half. With one minute remaining the Statesmen found themselves down two again, 72-74. A Troy Marcus lay-up coupled with a David Clark foul put the Wonder Boys up five as the keys came out in Tucker Coliseum. Earnesto Green hit a pair of free throws to bring it back down to two.

Brandon Friedel took the inbounds pass and threw it out of bounds giving the Statesmen the ball back with 31.8 seconds on the clock. Earnesto Green’s three hit off the back of the rim and Justin Duke had to foul. Tech missed the front-end of the one-and-one. After several missed shots by the Statesmen, Troy Marcus sent Oliver Mansour to the line with a chance to tie the ballgame with 2.7 seconds on the clock. Mansour missed the front-end and nailed down the second, pulling DSU within one with the same 2.7 on the board. Chad Henderson would finally put the Statesmen away with a pair of foul shots.

The Statesmen were led by David Clark and Earnesto Green with 15 points each. Brad Skipper led the way on the boards with nine. Justin Duke and Chad Akins added 14 and 11 points respectively. Chad Henderson led the Wonder Boys on the night with 23 points to lead all scorers, and Troy Marcus had the game’s sole double-double with 19 points and 11 rebounds.

The Statesmen shot 42-percent (25-of-59) from the floor, 33-percent (8-of-24) from three, and 69-percent (18-of-26) from the free throw line. Arkansas Tech went 45, 20, and 71-percent for their game.

The Statesmen will return to Walter Sillers Coliseum on Saturday for Senior Day as they host the Henderson State Reddies for their final home game of the 2007-08 season. Seniors Anthony Fizer and Ray Selvage will be honored before the tip-off, which is scheduled for 6:00 p.m.

The Statesmen are still hunting for one of the remaining spots for the Gulf South Conference Tournament. The games will get underway on Wednesday, March 5 from the beautiful DeSoto County Civic Center in Southaven, Mississippi. The field will be set following the games on Saturday. Check back to www.GoStatesmen.com for updates and www.gulfsouthconference.org to purchase tickets. Be there and support your Statesmen as they once again vie for a GSC title.

FEBRUARY 23, 2008

STATESMEN SINGING THE BLUES IN MEMPHIS – FALL TO BUCS, 76-61
By Michael Nienaber – Men’s Basketball Contact

Memphis – The Delta State Statesmen (13-11, 7-5 Gulf South) fell to the streaking Buccaneers (17-9, 8-4 Gulf South)of Christian Brothers University, 76-61, Saturday night in Memphis.

Both teams started out a little cold with both teams rushing shots to match the frenetic pace established on both sides. Brad Skipper broke the seal on the game almost two minutes in, but it would be the Statesmen’s only lead of the half. DSU shot just 39-percent in the frame, and were out-rebounded 16-26. CBU was finally able to break out of the back-and-forth as the half wound down, taking a 37-27 lead into the break.

The Statesmen came out hungry in the second half. They took better shots, stiffened their defensive effort, and pulled the game back to three in just five minutes. They would finally retie the score at 13:38 at 45 apiece off a pair of Chad Akins’ free throws. The Bucs weren’t done though, and answered with a 10-2 run, punctuated by a Reggie Peyton slam, before the media timeout. The game would not be close again.

Delta State was led offensively by Oliver Mansour with 16 points and eight rebounds on the night. Earnesto Green had 11 and Chad Akins, 10 to finish out those in double figures. Nick Kohs led all scorers with 25 points and 11 rebounds. The Statesmen shot 40-percent from the floor, 39-percent from three, and 75-percent from the foul line. Christian Brothers went 43, 33, and 47-percent for their side of the ledger.

The Statesmen will return to action this Thursday when they travel to Russellville, Ark., to take on the Wonder Boys of Arkansas Tech. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. from Tucker Coliseum.

 

FEBRUARY 21, 2008

CLARK’S SUPERMAN ROUTINE POWERS STATESMEN TO 88-63 WIN OVER MULERIDERS

By Michael Nienaber, Men’s Basketball Contact

• Box Score: DSU 88 - SAU 63

CLEVELAND – The Delta State Statesmen (13-10, 7-4 Gulf South) defeated the Muleriders (11-13, 2-9 Gulf South) of Southern Arkansas University, 88-63, Thursday at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The win maintains DSU’s position in the GSC-West standings, as the Statesmen will remain in a tie for third at the end of the night’s other games.

The Statesmen battled back-and-forth for much of the first half. The Muleriders led by as many as six in the period as the Statesmen tried to find their rhythm without the strong inside presence of the injured Ray Selvage. DSU closed out the half on a strong note, taking a 46-34 lead into the locker room.

Coach Conner’s team came out from the break and did everything they had to do to keep the struggling ‘Riders at bay. They would not get closer than eight for the rest of the game.

The Statesmen were a scorching 59-percent from the floor in the game, compared to SAU’s anemic 38-percent. They were equally impressive from behind the arc, going 6-of-11 on the night for 55-percent. DSU went 18-of-25 from the free throw line, good for 72-percent.

David Clark netted a career-high 22 points and seven rebounds to lead the Statesmen in scoring. Brad Skipper filled in down low and pulled in a massive 16 rebounds and nine points of his own. Three other Statesmen scored in double-figures. Justin Duke had 12, and Eric Spencer and Earnesto Green had 11 points apiece.

The Statesmen will be on the road this weekend as they will travel to Memphis to take on the Buccaneers of Christian Brothers University. Tip-off is set 5:00 p.m. from Canale Arena.

February 20, 2008

FORMER STATESMAN RICHARDSON SIGNS WITH HAWKS
From Combined Reports

ATLANTA, GA. - Former Statesmen Jeremy Richardson has signed a 10-day contract with the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks. This is the third such contract that Richardson has signed this season, the first two with the Memphis Grizzlies (December 20) and the San Antonio Spurs (January 10). It will be his second stretch with the Hawks, having been with the team for a short period last season.  

Jeremy scored a total of 10 points, two rebounds, two assists, and one steal in eight games in his first two stints in the league. Those numbers reflect, more, a lack of opportunity than any lack of ability. Richardson is second in scoring in the D-League with 25.4 points per game. He is also averaged 6.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. Jeremy was named the MVP of the recent D-League All-Star Game after leading his team to a 117-99 victory in the exhibition. He scored 22 points, grabbed four rebounds, and one steal.  

"I have to give a lot of credit to the D-League,” said Richardson. “It helped me out and that’s the case for a lot of players out here. Everybody out here is talented and has a chance to make it to the NBA.”

Jeremy was a First Team All-Gulf South Conference selection following both his junior and senior seasons with the Statesmen. He started all 31 games as a senior averaging 17.8 points, and left ranked 14th on the team’s all-time scoring list.

Richardson will join the Hawks immediately for their road trip in California, which begins Tuesday against the Lakers and continues Wednesday in Sacramento and on Friday at Golden State. He will be wearing 32 for the Hawks, the inverse of his old green and white jersey, number 23.

 

February 16, 2008

GREEN’S THREE WITH 19 SECONDS LEFT LIFTS STATESMEN TO 63-60 WIN OVER BOLL WEEVILS

• Box Score: DSU 63 - UAM 60

CLEVELAND – Earnesto Green’s 25-foot three-pointer with 19 seconds remaining lifted the Delta State men’s basketball team to a 63-60 victory over Arkansas-Monticello Saturday at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The Statesmen improved to 12-10 and 6-4 in Gulf South Conference play, while the Boll Weevils fell to 13-10 and 5-5 in league play.

The second half came down to the final 30 seconds of action, as both teams continued their torrid play. UAM led by as many as nine in the second half, but the Statesmen would not go away easily. Green put the team on his back over the final minute of play to setup the dramatic ending.

Tied at 60-60 with 29 seconds left, UAM missed an open shot underneath the basket. DSU’s David Clark cleared the rebound for the Statesmen. Chad Akins dribbled right and found a slashing Green at the left elbow. Green took two dribbles right and canned a 25-foot three pointer for the 63-60 lead. UAM’s desperation prayer fell on deaf ears, as the Statesmen crowd cheered the 63-60 win.

The Statesmen and Boll Weevils picked up the offensive pace in the second half considerably. DSU hit on 13-of-31 in the second half to improve to 41.9 percent, and finished the game 24-of-61 for the game. UAM was 14-of-32 for 43.8 percent in the second frame and 23-of-62 for the game.

The Statesmen out-rebounded the Boll Weevils 44-42, while forcing 18 UAM turnovers. The Statesmen bench proved to the difference, as the green-and-white outscored UAM 33-16.

The first half saw both teams struggling to find any kind of continuity on offense. The Statesmen trailed 9-2 until the 13 minute mark of the half, as Coach Conner’s squad found an extra gear and eventually took the lead 11-9 with under 10 to go.

Trailing 25-26 with less than 10 seconds remaining in the half, Chad Akins found a streaking Jordan Clements for a wide open lay up as time expired in the half to give DSU the lead 27-26.

Delta State connected on 11-of-30 shots in the first half from the floor, while making just 1-of-10 three point shots. Arkansas-Monticello was a mere 9-of-30 from the floor and 3-of-11 from beyond the arch.

Jordan Clements led all scorers with 19 points and six rebounds for DSU. Green finished with 11 points and six boards, while Justin Duke finished with 10 points and three rebounds. David Clark narrowly missed a double-double with eight points and 10 boards.

UAM placed four players in double figures with De’Angelo Dean’s 17 leading the way.

The Statesmen return to the court on Thursday, Feb. 21, as the play host to Southern Arkansas University. Delta State will be sponsoring “Think Pink Night,” as part of the festivities. Coach Jason Conner and the team are encouraging everyone to wear your pink in support of the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association’s fight against cancer. Tip-off is set for 8 p.m.

February 16, 2008

FORMER STATESMAN STANDOUT JEREMY RICHARDSON NAMED NBA D-LEAGUE ALL-STAR GAME MVP

By Daniel Hawthorne

NEW ORLEANS- Former Statesman basketball player Jeremy Richardson was named MVP of the NBA D-League All-Star Game Saturday night in New Orleans. Richardson led all scorers with 22 points, finishing 9-of-15 from the floor with four rebounds, to lead the Blue team to a 117-99 victory.

“It feels good to win something like this, coming from where I come from,” said Richardson. “If it wasn't for the D-League, I probably would have never gotten a chance from an NBA team. I have to give a lot of credit to the D-League. It helped me out and that is the case for a lot of players out here. Everybody out here is talented and has a chance to make it to the NBA. There's a lot of competition out here.”

In 12 games this season for the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, the former All-American is averaging 25 points and six rebounds.

For more on the story, please click here.

February 14, 2008

BISON STAMPEDE STATESMEN, 90-64
By Michael Nienaber – Men’s Basketball Contact

• Box Score: HU 90 - DSU 64

SEARCY, Ark. – The Delta State Statesmen (11-10, 5-4 Gulf South) fell to the Bison of Harding University (13-9, 6-3 Gulf South), 90-64, Thursday night at Rhodes Field House in front of over 1600 fans.

The Statesmen jumped out to an early seven-point lead, but the home-standing Bison were able to take their first lead of the contest, 18-15, at the 12:00 mark. From there, a couple of quick threes and solid defense pushed the Harding lead out to nine before the Statesmen scored again, 24-16 half way through the period. The Bison lead hovered around double-digits for the rest of the half.

A scary moment came at 7:56 remaining in the first half, as Statesmen center Ray Selvage landed hard on his knee after a blocked dunk-attempt, and collapsed in pain with play continuing on the other end of the court. He would not return on the night.

When play finally did resume, the Bison took full advantage of the gaping hole in the Statesmen defense down low and prevented the Statesmen from closing the gap, taking a 49-39 lead into the break.

By the 17-minute mark, the Bison had pushed their 10-point advantage to a 20-point one. The Statesmen never quit and were able to cut the lead back to 10 with just over seven minutes remaining, 55-65. Despite the good effort, they were never able to get any closer.

Matt Hall led all scorers on the night with 30 points on the evening. Earnesto Green paced the Statesmen with 14 points, seven rebounds, and two assists. Eric Spencer joined Green in double-figures with 10 points of his own.

As a team, DSU shot 33-percent (23-of-69) from the floor, 19-percent (5-of-27) from three, and 54-percent (13-of-24) from the charity stripe. The Bison went 50, 44, and 82-percent on their side of the stat sheet.

The Statesmen will return to Walter Sillers Coliseum on Saturday to take on the Boll Weevils of Arkansas-Monticello. DSU will be looking to avenge the five-point loss they suffered earlier in the season in Monticello. Game time is set for 6:00 p.m. and will tip-off following the conclusion of the women’s game at 4:00.

February 13, 2008

DELTA STATE TRAVELS TO HOSTILE RHODES FIELD HOUSE FOR SHOWDOWN WITH HARDING

• Game Notes: Weekly Release

CLEVELAND - The Statesmen will travel to Searcy this Thursday to take on the Bison of Harding University. The game is the second meeting between the two schools this season. The Statesmen are looking to avenge the 95-104 loss that Harding handed them earlier in the year at Sillers Coliseum.

The Bison are led by Senior Matt Hall. The forward is averaging over 20 points per game this season and is poised to claim his third Player-of-the-Year honor. Hall is surrounded by a solid core of veteran players which makes a win in Searcy a tall order for any team that tries.

Harding is coming off a 72-69 loss at Arkansas-Monticello last Thursday. It was the Bison’s first loss on the road in conference this season. They are currently 6-2 in GSC play, tied with Ouachita Baptist for the top spot. This would be a quality win for the Statesmen in any season, but could be especially useful this year. The West is all knotted-up and every game will have play-off implications.

February 7, 2008

STATESMEN DROP STINGER TO TIGERS, 78-80

By Michael Nienaber, Men’s Basketball Contact

CLEVELAND - The Delta State men’s basketball team (11-9, 5-3 Gulf South) fell in a 78-80 barnburner Thursday night to the Tigers of Ouachita Baptist University (13-6, 6-2 Gulf South) at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The loss snaps a four-game wining streak for the Statesmen and gives the Tigers a share of the Gulf South-West lead.

The first game between the two schools was one of the fastest-paced games of the season to- date. This game started, it seemed, where their previous one left off. Both teams came out with a fierce intensity, flying up and down the court for the entire period. The only thing separating the two squads early was the couple of offensive miscues on the first two possessions from the Tigers, but neither team was able to gain any lasting momentum or lead. The Statesmen were able to go on enough of a run at the end of the half to take a nine point lead into the break.

The pace only increased in the second half. Both teams jockeyed back-and-forth for the lead.

At the two minute mark the score stood 69-66 Tigers. The Statesmen came down, took an ill advised shot and then allowed Memo Rodriguez to hit an open three from the top of the key to go up six. The next trip down Earnesto Green connected on a three of his own to pull the deficit back to three. A foul on the ensuing by Eric Spencer sent Rodriguez to the line with just :41.1 on the clock and the Tigers still up three. He hit both to put the score 69-74. The quick lay-up attempt from Spencer didn’t fall, forcing another Statesmen foul. This time, Daniel Maddox went to the line and connected on two more. The Statesmen pulled out all the stops and made up seven points in the final ten seconds, but were unable to pull off the comeback.

The Statesmen were led offensively by Spencer and Akins, with 15 points each. Ray Selvage and Jordan Clements followed with 12 and 10 points respectively. Selvage pulled down the most boards for DSU on the night with eight, coming just two short of the double-double. Memo Rodriguez, Daniel Maddox, and Rowan Ledbetter were the only Tigers in double-figures – they had 18 points apiece. The Statesmen shot 42-percent from the floor, 44-percent from three, and 77-percent from the free throw line (20-of-26). OBU went 44-percent, 53-percent, and 70-percent in their half of the box.

The Statesmen are off this weekend for some much needed rest. They will be back in action next Thursday, Valentine’s Day, as they travel to Searcy, Ark., to take on the West-leading Harding University Bison. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. from the Rhodes Field House.

February 7, 2008

FORMER STATESMEN JEREMY RICHARDSON NAMED TO NBA DEVELOPMENTAL LEAGUE ALL-STAR GAME
By Daniel Hawthorne

NEW YORK, N.Y. - Former Delta State standout Jeremy Richardson has been selected to play in the NBA Developmental League All-Star Game, as announced by the NBA on Tuesday.

The game will be held Saturday, Feb. 16, on Center Court at the NBA All-Star Jam Session presented by Adidas and will tip off at 2 p.m. CST and will be shown live on NBA TV. The game will be played in New Orleans, La.

Richardson, who’s had stints with several NBA teams including the Portland Trail Blazers, Miami Heat, Memphis Grizzlies and most recently the San Antonio Spurs, has been assigned to the Fort Wayne Mad Ants. In nine games this season for them, he averaged a league-high 28.8 points and 6.3 rebounds.

Last night Richardson had a team-high 19 points in a 96-97 loss to the Sioux Falls Skyforce. He finished 8-of-18 from the floor with five rebounds in 33:09 minutes.

For more information, please click here.

February 3, 2008

STATESMEN BASKETBALL DISMISSES JOHNNY HODGE

CLEVELAND – Jason Conner, head coach of the Delta State University men’s basketball team, announced Sunday that Johnny Hodge, a 6-foot-5 senior from Monroe, La., had been dismissed from the program for a violation of team rules. The dismissal is effective immediately.

February 2, 2008

STATESMEN SURVIVE LAST-MINUTE REDDIE RALLY, WIN 75-70

By Michael Nienaber – Men’s Basketball Contact

•  Box Score

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – The Delta State Statesmen (11-8, 5-2 Gulf South) traveled to Arkadelphia this Saturday and defeated the Reddies (2-17, 0-7 Gulf South) of Henderson State, 75-70, at the Duke Wells Center. The win extends the Statesmen’s three-game winning streak to four, and keeps the Reddies from their first conference win of the season.

The Statesmen were solid in the first half, shooting a respectable 44-percent from the floor. They took advantage of a cold-shooting Reddie team, who was only able to manage 28-percent on the period. Ray Selvage and Oliver Mansour played well down low and Chad Akins and Earnesto Green took care of the outside. Selvage and Akins netted seven in the half, Green bested them with eight, while Mansour pulled in six rebounds. The balanced teamwork allowed Delta to go into the half up, 34-22 inside the sparsely populated, yet rowdy, Duke Wells Center.

The Men-in-Green continued their steady pressure into the new half, passing the ball all over the court, as the Reddies struggled to get back into the ballgame. The Reddies were able to keep the Statesmen lead at or around the halftime total. Some late offensive miscues from the Statesmen allowed Henderson to get the game back to a six-point game with just 1:32 remaining. Chad Akins went to the line and pushed the lead back to eight, then Earnesto Green stole the ball on the ensuing trip down the court.

The Statesmen controlled the clock well as time ticked away. Eric Spencer hit a big three from the corner which gave the Statesmen a 73-64 lead with just :32.5 showing on the game clock. A timeout from Henderson State’s Sam Weaver changed the Reddie game plan to foul-mode, and Delta misfired on four attempts from the line.

The Reddies hit a couple of quick threes, reminding all the Statesmen fans in the crowd of the near disaster at Southern Arkansas the last time DSU tried to put away a conference road game. With :12.2 on the clock, Jason Conner called a timeout of his own to try and calm his team down. Another quick foul sent Eric Spencer to the line… he connected on both shots to put the game out of reach for good.

Eric Spencer’s 15 points set Delta State’s offensive pace and HSU’s Antoine Vinson led all scorers on the evening with 21. Oliver Mansour registered a massive 14 rebounds and eight points of his own. Jordan Clements, Earnesto Green, and Chad Akins all scored in double-digits with 14, 12, and 11 points respectively. The Statesmen shot 48-percent from the floor, 29-percent from three, and went 10-of-21 from the line (48-percent). The Reddies could not recover from their slow start, finishing 44, 24, and 79-percent on the night.

The Statesmen will open the back half of their conference schedule next Thursday, as they play host to the Tigers of Ouachita Baptist University. DSU won the first game of the season-series, 94-79, back on January 12 in Arkadelphia. Tip-off from Walter Sillers is scheduled for 8:00 p.m.

 

January 31, 2008

STATESMEN GRIT-OUT A 88-84 WIN OVER THE WONDER BOYS
By Michael Nienaber, Men's Contact

CLEVELAND – The Delta State Statesmen (10-8, 4-2 Gulf South) defeated the Wonder Boys of Arkansas Tech (13-6, 4-2 Gulf South), 88-84, at Walter Sillers Coliseum on Thursday. The win extends the Statesmen’s current winning streak to three and pulls DSU even with Tech in the GSC-West standings AT 4-2.

The Statesmen battled from the tip-off in one of the season’s fastest-paced games to date. Both teams scored in quick succession, dunking in the face of defenders and sending the crowd into fits. Ray Selvage produced a couple of rim-rattling slams to help the Statesmen build an early lead. The Wonder Boys answered back, coming from 11 points down to tie the score at 22-all. Tech took advantage of 17 DSU turnovers in the period. The Statesmen went on a 14-9 run to end the half, heading into the locker room up five, 39-34 at the break.

The second half remained as manic as the first, with the Statesmen lead yo-yoing up and down as the Wonder Boys tried to regain the momentum. The Statesmen extended their lead to as many as 10 at the 17-minute mark. Arkansas Tech managed to finally tie the score at 70 with 4:26 remaining on the clock. The teams then preceded traded the lead back-and-forth over the final four minutes . The Statesmen were able to get back on top for good off a pair of clutch threes from Earnesto Green, giving DSU a six-point lead with just 51 seconds left to play. Solid foul shooting from Eric Spencer put the game on ice and handed the Wonder Boys only their second conference loss on the season.

Eric Spencer and Earnesto Green led the way for the Statesmen on the night, scoring 21 and 20 points respectively. Chad Akins and Jordan Clements joined their teammates in double-digits with 12 and 10 points each. Eric Spencer fell just two rebounds short of his first double-double of the year with eight rebounds in the game. Arkansas Tech was paced by Chad Henderson’s 21 points and 6 rebounds. The Statesmen shot 53.7-percent from the floor off 29-of-54 shooting. They went 5-of-17 from three (29.4-percent) and 25-of-36 from the free-throw line (69.4-percent). Delta held the Wonder Boys to 43.1-percent from the field, 33.3-percent from three, and 65.7-percent from the line.

Coach Conner’s team will be in Arkansas this Saturday, as they take on the Reddies of Henderson State. The game will be broadcast live on the Statesmen Sports Network, Matt Jones and J.T. Webb will have the call from the Duke Wells Center on the campus of Henderson State University starting with the women’s game at 2:45 p.m. Tip-off for the Statesmen is scheduled for 5:00 p.m.

January 31, 2008

STATESMEN FACE DIVISION-LEADING WONDER BOYS THURSDAY AT SILLERS COLISEUM

• GAME NOTES: Arkansas Tech at DSU

CLEVELAND - The Delta State University Statesmen and the Arkansas Tech Wonder Boys meet Thursday in a crucial early Gulf South Conference game for both clubs at Walter Sillers Colseum. Tip-off is set for 8 p.m.

Tech has been the surprise so far in the GSC West after being picked to finish last in the pre-season poll. Second-year coach Mark Downey has things moving in the right direction, as ATU sits 13-5 headed into the game. Dlta State is 9-8 overall and 3-2 in West Division play. Tech has won five of their last six games, and are in first place in the GSC West at 4-1.

Darren Tarver enters the contest as ATU’S leading scorer at 15.6 points per game. Tarver also averages a steady 3.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game. Troy Marcus is Tech’s leading rebounder, pulling down 5.6 per game. Marcus also averages 10.4 points per game which ranks him third on the team.

The Statesmen enter the game on a two game winning streak including a 79-63 dispatching of preseason GSC first place pick Christian Brothers. DSU has been riding the hot hand of Ernesto Green. The junior guard has scored 39 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in Delta State’s last two conference victories.

January 26, 2008

STATESMEN VICTORIOUS, 79-63, OVER BUCCANEERS

By Michael Nienaber – Men’s Basketball Contact

• Box Score: DSU 79 - CBU 63 

CLEVELAND, Miss. – The Delta State men’s basketball team (9-8, 3-2 Gulf South) defeated the Buccaneers of Christian Brothers University (10-8, 2-3 Gulf South), 79-63, Saturday at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The win extends the Statesmen’s GSC win streak to two games and moves the squad above .500 for the first time this semester.

The Statesmen took a little while to get going tonight in Walter Sillers. Halfway through the period the Buccaneers held an 11-point lead. A three-pointer from Eric Spencer sparked a 10-0 run over the next three minutes to cut the CBU lead down to one. The Statesmen took their first lead of the game at with 3:30 left in the half, but it was quickly erased by a Weybright lay-up on the next trip down the floor. The two squads traded buckets for the remainder of the period. A series of CBU turnovers and Statesmen lay-ups allowed Coach Conner’s men to take a six-point lead into the break, 40-34.

The Statesmen carried their momentum well into the second half, extending their lead out to 10 in the opening seven minutes of the half, 52-42. The Buccaneers tried to claw their way back into the game, but were never able to get closer than five again.

The Statesmen were paced by Eric Spencer’s 19 points on the evening. Earnesto Green, Jordan Clements and Chad Akins joined him in double-figures with 15, 12 and 10 points respectively. Reggie Peyton led all Buccaneer scorers with 19 points, and Kevin Weybright added 18. The Statesmen shot 59-percent from the floor, 38-percent from three, and 77-percent from the foul line. CBU went 44, 37, and 46-percent on the night.

Delta State remains at home next Thursday, as the Statesmen will play host to the Wonder Boys of Arkansas Tech. Game-time is set for 8:00 p.m. at Sillers Coliseum.

January 24, 2008

STATESMEN SURVIVE LAST-MINUTE COMEBACK, WIN 74-73 AT SAU
By Michael Nienaber, Men's Basketball Contact

• Box Score: DSU 74 - SAU 73

MAGNOLIA, Ark. – The Delta State men's basketball team (8-8, 2-2 Gulf South) survived a furious last-minute comeback from the Muleriders of Southern Arkansas University (10-7, 1-3 Gulf South) on Thursday, coming away from Magnolia with a 74-73 victory. THe win snapped a two-game conference losing streak for Jason Conner's Statesmen.

Delta State seemed to be cruising to an assured win with a 10 point lead with less than one minute left on the clock, but the intended “nail-in-the-coffin” dunk from Ray Selvage was answered by an 11-2 SAU run. The Muleriders hit three threes and a lay-up to cut DSU's lead to three with 5.1 seconds remaining.

Earnesto Green's free throw extended the lead to four and the free throw proved to be the difference in the game, as SAU's Brian Williams canned a 47-foot, buzzer-beating three to make the final margin 74-73.

Despite the near heart attack-inducing finish, the Statesmen never trailed in the game. The DSU lead climbed as high as 17 in the second half. Earnesto Green led all scorers in the contest with 24 points, he also had seven rebounds and two assists on the night. Johnny Hodge and Chad Akins were the only other Statesmen in double-digits with 12 and 11 points respectively. Oliver Mansour pulled down nine rebounds to lead all players in that category.

Brandon Williams paced the Muleriders with 23 points on the night, nine of which came in the final nine seconds of the game.

The Statesmen will try to catch their breath after this one before returning home to Cleveland on Saturday to host the Buccaneers of Christian Brothers University at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Game time is set for 6:00 p.m.

January 23, 2008

Spurs re-sign former Statesman Jeremy Richardson

SAN ANTONIO – The San Antonio Spurs announced Wednesday that they have re-signed former Delta State guard/forward Jeremy Richardson. Per team policy, terms of the deals were not disclosed.

Richardson has appeared in three games for the Spurs this season averaging 1.7 points in 3:23 minutes. He was originally signed on Jan. 10.

The 6-foot-7, 195-pound Richardson was signed by the Memphis Grizzlies on Dec. 20. He did not register a point in three games with the Grizzlies and was waived on Jan. 7.

Prior to joining the Grizzlies, Richardson was with the Fort Wayne Mad Antz in the NBA Development League. He was averaging a league-high 28.5 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.63 steals in 41.5 minutes in eight games. The 23-year-old spent the 2007 preseason with the Miami Heat before being cut on Oct. 29.

A two-time National Basketball Coaches Association All-Region and All-Gulf South Conference selection, Richardson helped guide the Statesmen to the 2005-2006 GSC championship. In just two seasons at Delta State, the Zachary, La., native scored 1,001 career points to rank in the top 30 all-time.

January 19, 2008

STRONG SECOND HALF LIFTS WEEVILS OVER STATESMEN, 78-73
By Michael Nienaber – Men’s Basketball Contact

• Box Score: UAM 78 - DSU 73

MONTICELLO , Ark. - The Delta State men’s basketball team (7-8, 1-2 Gulf South Conference) fell to the Boll Weevils of the University of Arkansas-Monticello (8-7, 1-2 GSC), 78-73, Saturday at Steelman Fieldhouse. The loss extends Delta State’s GSC streak to two games.

The Statesmen went into the locker room with a 39-35 advantage, thanks to some lights-out shooting from behind the arc. DSU shot 6-of-11 from three, good for 55-percent, compared to just 4-of-11 for the Weevils. The Statesmen bench played solid ball in the frame, accounting for 16 points. Anthony Fizer had 10 off the pine to lead DSU. He went 4-for-5 from the floor and 2-of-3 from three.

In the second half, the Statesmen tied the game with just over five minutes remaining off a pair of Johnny Hodge free throws, but a called fifth foul on Oliver Mansour on the next play allowed UAM to retake the lead. The sequence stalled the Statesmen’s momentum and they never got closer than three again.

Anthony Fizer and Johnny Hodge led the Statesmen with 16 points apiece. Fizer’s 16 points set a new career-high for the senior. Chad Akins led the squad on the boards with six rebounds. Raymond Wright’s 24 points and 13 rebounds paced the Boll Weevils on the afternoon.

The Statesmen shot 50-percent from the floor, going 26-of-52. Their three-point shooting cooled from the first half, falling to 14-percent for the half and 39 for the game. The Statesmen did not get many opportunities from the free-throw line, but they made the best of what they were given, going 14-of-16 for the game. Arkansas-Monticello shot 47-percent from the floor, 29-percent from three, and 71-percent from the line.

The Statesmen will stay on the road Thursday, Jan. 24, as they travel to Magnolia, Ark., to face the Muleriders of Southern Arkansas University. Game time is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. The game will be aired live on the Statesmen Sports Network beginning with the Lady Statesmen’s contest with the Lady Muleriders at 5:15 p.m. Matt Jones and J.T. Webb have the call.

January 17, 2008

STATESMEN DROP SHOOT-OUT IN SILLERS, 104-95
By Michael Nienaber – Men’s Basketball Contact

•  Box Score: HU 104 - DSU 95

CLEVELAND - The Delta State men’s basketball (7-7, 1-1 GSC) dropped their first home game of the year Thursday, 104-95, at the hands of Matt Hall and the Harding Bison (8-7, 2-0 GSC). Two-time Gulf South Conference Player of the Year, Matt Hall, scored 37 points and grabbed nine rebounds on the night.

The game went back-and-forth for much of the first half. Hall scored 16 points, just two ahead of Oliver Mansour for the Statesmen at 14. The Bison were poised to take a two point lead into the half as the final seconds ticked off the clock, but a quick turnover by Steven Barnett and a last-second half-court three from Eric Spencer put the Statesmen up one as the buzzer sounded for the half, 53-52.

The second half started much like the first one ended with both teams level-pegging with each other. Then the Bison made a run. They went from one point ahead with 9:12 on the clock to 10 ahead two minutes later, 85-75. From that point forward, the Statesmen could never get the Bison lead below nine.

Delta was led by Johnny Hodge with 17 points and five rebounds. Oliver Mansour and Chad Akins added 15, while Eric Spencer netted 12 and Ray Selvage had 11 points and five rebounds. Senior Anthony Fizer scored 10 points of his own in the final four minutes.

Even with six Statesmen in double-figures, they could not keep up with Matt Hall. His 37 led all scorers, while three other Bison posted double-figure nights as well. The Statesmen shot 54-percent from the floor and 50-percent from three, and the Bison went 58-percent from the floor and a scorching 83-percent from the foul line. Harding hit as many free-throws, 33, as the Statesmen took all night.

The Statesmen will be on the road this Saturday when they travel over to Monticello, Ark. for a 4:00 p.m. start with the Boll Weevils of Arkansas-Monticello.

January 12, 2008

STATESMEN WIN A WILD CONFERENCE OPENER 94-79 AT TIGERS

By Michael Nienaber – Men’s Basketball Contact

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – The Delta State Statesmen (7-6, 1-0) opened Gulf South Conference play in Arkadelphia Saturday night with a furiously paced 94-79 victory over the Tigers of Ouachita Baptist University (7-5, 0-1).

Ray Selvage came to play. He put on a dunking exhibition in the opening minutes of the first half, scoring 10 of the Statesmen’s first 15. Elevated by their center’s play, the rest of the Statesmen lineup responded by playing some of the best basketball they’ve played to-date. They would need every bit of that effort, as the Tigers were not going to simply lay down in their own gym. The game went back-and-forth for much of the period. Selvage and Johnny Hodge had 12 points apiece and Eric Spencer added 10 to help the Statesmen take a 45-36 lead into the locker room at Vining Arena.

The only question on the minds of those DSU fans in attendance, would the Statesmen be able to keep this break-neck pace going into the second half? The Statesmen answered by opening the second half on a 10-4 run, giving DSU the 55-40 lead with 16:00 minutes remaining. The two squads refused to slow the game down, as both flew up and down both ends of the court hitting jumpers and lay-ups from every spot on the hardwood, and despite a ferocious effort from the Tigers, Ouachita was never able to bring the game back within single-digits.

The Statesmen were led by Eric Spencer with 18 points and six rebounds, Johnny Hodge added 16 and nine, Oliver Mansour and Jordan Clements had 13, while Selvage added two more in his foul-shortened period for 12 points and seven rebounds on the night. The Tigers were led by Antonio Benjamin and Memo Rodriguez with 20 and 19 points respectively.

Coach Jason Conner had this to say “that’s the Ray Selvage I know, he brought emotion and I was pleased to see it. It is always tough to come in here and walk out with the “w.”

The Statesmen will be back home for their next game Thursday night as they play host to the Bison of Harding University. Tip off is set to follow the conclusion of the women’s game. Both teams look to continue their new conference winning streaks in front of the home crowd in Cleveland.

 

January 8, 2008

STATESMEN READY FOR GSC-OPENER, DEFEAT CHAMPION BAPTIST 105-40
By Michael Nienaber – Men’s Basketball Contact

• Box Score: DSU 105 - CBC 40

CLEVELAND – The Delta State Statesmen defeated the Champion Baptist Tigers 105-40 in their final non-conference game of the 2007-08 schedule Tuesday night at Sillers Coliseum. The victory pulled the Statesmen back to the .500-mark, improving to 6-6 on the year, the Tigers dropped to 3-13.

The game was never close as the Statesmen put the NCCAA program away early. Eric Spencer had 10 points at the half and four of his teammates were within two of double-digits in the period. The Tigers had trouble with the Statesmen defense and speed, shooting just 17-percent from the floor (4-of-24), 8-percent from three point-range (1-of-12), and one-of-four from the line. Delta State led 46-10 at the intermission.

The second half saw more of the same as the Statesmen continued to cruise. DSU was led by Xavier Ruth with 16 points and four rebounds. Anthony Fizer followed with 15. As a team the Statesmen shot 53.9-percent from the floor (41-of-76), 36.4-percent from three, and went 15-of-21 from the free throw line. Champion Baptist was led by Andrew Pryor with 16 points and four rebounds.

Delta State will open up conference play on the road this Saturday against the Ouachita Baptist Tigers. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. from Bill Vining Arena in Arkadelphia, Arkansas.

January 7, 2008

STATESMEN DROP 55-78 DECISION TO ARGOS
By Michael Nienaber, Men’s Basketball Contact

• Box Score: DSU 55 at UWF 78

PENSACOLA, Fla. – The Delta State men’s basketball team dropped their final division II game before starting Gulf South Conference play 55-78 to the Argonauts Monday night at UWF Fieldhouse on the campus of the University of West Florida. The loss gives the Statesmen a 5-6 record on the season, while the Argonauts improve to 10-4.

The Argos never trailed in the game, taking a 42-16 lead into the locker room at the half. The second half was much improved for Jason Conner’s Statesmen. They leveled things out in the period, scoring 39 points to UWF’s 36, but the hole was too deep for DSU to climb out.

Johnny Hodge contributed his first double-double of the year with 15 points and 12 rebounds for the Statesmen. Earnesto Green was the only other Statesman in double-figures with 14. As a team, Delta State went 19-of-66 from the floor (29-percent) compared to 28-of-62 (45-percent) for West Florida. Josh Jackson led all scorers on the night, with 17 points and three rebounds for the Argonauts.

The Statesmen will not have to wait long to get back on the court, as they return home to Walter Sillers Coliseum for an 8:00 p.m. tip-off with Champion Baptist Tuesday. The game will be the final non-conference game of the season for the Statesmen.

January 5, 2008

STATESMEN CLAIM 73-68 OVERTIME VICTORY OVER TIGERS
By Michael Nienaber, Men’s Basketball Contact

• Box Score: DSU 73 - UWA 68 OT 

CLEVELAND – The Delta State men’s basketball team pulled out a thrilling 73-68 overtime victory over West Alabama Saturday night at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Clutch free-throws from sophomore point guard Chad Akins helped the Statesmen put the Tigers away in the final seconds of the extra period. The victory brought the Statesmen to .500 on the season at 5-5, while the Tigers fell to 5-8. The victory also gave the Statesmen the series sweep over the Tigers 2-0.

The game went back-and-forth all night with neither team able to get the lead into double-digits. The Statesmen trailed by four at the half, 33-37, on 38 percent shooting from the floor compared to 41 percent for West Alabama. The Tiger lead climbed to its zenith with 14 minutes to play at 42-51, but the Statesmen clawed their way back and tied the game seven minutes later at 56. The two continued to trade buckets until time expired with the score knotted at 62.

Eric Spencer struck first in the overtime giving Delta State the early advantage, 64-62. West Alabama’s Glenn Miles tied the game at 64 with his 17-footer. A three pointer by Akins extended DSU’s lead to 67-64 with 3:05 left in overtime. Both teams would trade baskets until Akins’ free throws sealed the win for DSU, 73-68.

Spencer led the Green-and-White on the night, with his first double-double of the year - 18 points and 10 rebounds. Johnny Hodge and Chad Akins also scored in double-digits on the night with 17 and 14 points respectively. Akins also dished out a game-high six assists. Glenn Miles led all scorers with 23 for West Alabama.

The Statesmen return to the court on Monday, Jan. 7 at West Florida. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. at UWF Fieldhouse in Pensacola, Fla. DSU will return to Walter Sillers Coliseum on Tuesday, Jan. 8 versus Champion Baptist. The game is part of a doubleheader with the second-ranked Lady Statesmen. Game times are set for 6 and 8 p.m. .

January 4, 2008

STATESMEN TO HOST TIGERS IN FIRST CONTEST OF 2008 SATURDAY

CLEVELAND- The Delta State University Statesmen basketball team (4-5) is looking  to kickoff the New Year with a win as they return to action this Saturday at Walter Sillers Coliseum against the Tigers of West Alabama (5-7).

"West Alabama has a very talented team and we will have to play our best to earn a victory," said DSU head coach Jason Conner. "We were fortunate to steal a win at their place and I know they'll be looking to return the favor."

The Statesmen are coming off an 83-63 victory over Dillard University December 19 and are looking to extend their home winning streak to three games. The Tigers are looking to avenge a 96-78 loss to the Statesmen on November 21 at Livingston. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m.

December 19, 2007

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES SIGN FORMER STATESMEN STANDOUT JEREMY RICHARDSON

MEMPHIS , TENN. – The Memphis Grizzlies of the National Basketball Association have signed former Delta State guard Jeremy Richardson to a 10-day contract on Wednesday, Dec. 19. Richardson’s signing fills a void for the Grizzlies after the club released Tarence Kinsey on Tuesday.

“All Jeremy needs is a chance,” said DSU head coach Jason Conner. “He has the talent to play in the NBA, but hasn’t had the right fit. Hopefully, Memphis will be the place. I know I’ll be driving up Highway 61 to watch him play.”

Richardson, currently the leading scorer in the NBA’s Development League at 28.5 points per game, will be in Memphis in time for Thursday’s contest with the Detroit Pistons. The 6-foot-7 Zachary, La., native spent the entire preseason with the Miami Heat before being released at the start of the season. He signed with Fort Wayne ( Ind.) of the NBDL and hasn’t looked back. In eight games with the Mad Ants, Richardson averaged 28.5 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game.

Richardson played last season with the Fort Worth Flyers of the NBDL.  He averaged 15.1 points per game and spent time with the Atlanta Hawks and Portland Trailblazers. 

The two-time All-Gulf South Conference selection guided the Statesmen to the 2005-06 GSC title and the nation’s No. 1 ranking. He finished his career with 1,001 career points to rank fourteenth all-time at Delta State.

DECEMBER 18, 2007

STATESMEN END FOUR-GAME SKID AGAINST DILLARD 83-63 AT SILLERS COLISEUM
By Michael Nienaber, Men’s Basketball Contact

• Box Score: Statesmen 83 - Blue Devils 63  

CLEVELAND – The Delta State men’s basketball team snapped their four-game losing streak Monday against the visiting Dillard Blue Devils, 83-63, at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The Statesmen improved to 4-5 on the year, while the Blue Devils dropped to 4-4.

The Statesmen took a few minutes to warm up, but the Devils never got closer than a bucket in the half. Delta shot 57-percent on the half, with both Johnny Hodge and Earnesto Green in double-figures with 12 and 11 points respectively. Dillard connected on 52-percent of their shots, but it was not enough to overtake the Statesmen, who took a six point lead into the break, 43 to 37.

With most of the starters on the bench, the Devils were able to cut the lead back down to three with six minutes remaining, but the Green-and-White would not be denied a win in front of their home crowd. The Statesmen went on a 20-0 run over the remaining five minutes to seal the victory, 83-63.

Delta State was led by Eric Spencer and Earnesto Green with 18 points apiece. Johnny Hodge ended with 12 points on the afternoon. DSU shot 57-percent from the floor and 42-percent from behind the arc. They were 4-of-8 from the foul line.

The Statesmen will take the next two weeks off for the holidays before hosting the Tigers of West Alabama in the first game of the New Year on January 5. Game time is set for 6 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

December 16, 2007

SALEM INTERNATIONAL CLAIMS 92-71 VICTORY OVER DELTA STATE AT JOE MANCHIN CLASSIC

SALEM, W.V. - The Salem International men's basketball team claimed a 92-71 victory over Delta State at the annual Joe Manchin Classic on Saturday. The loss is the fourth straight for the Statesmen and drops their season record to 3-5. SIU improved to 6-1 with the win.

Due to an external email problem, complete stats are not available at this time. As soon as they become available, a complete recap and stats will be posted.

December 15, 2007

STATESMEN DROP THIRD STRAIGHT, 81-84, TO CHARLESTON AT JOE MANCHIN CLASSIC
By Michael Nienaber

SALEM, W.V. - The Delta State University men's basketball team dropped its third straight game with an 81-84 loss to the University of Charleston at the Joe Manchin Classic in Salem. The Manchin Classic is hosted by Salem International University.

The University of Charleston had five players reach double-digit scoring in an 85-81 victory over Delta State University Friday night at Salem.

Robert Strickland led the way for UC (5-2) with 20 points. Marquis Brooks and Austin Weatherington each added 17 while John White scored 15 and Jamaal Williams 15.

Delta State (3-4) was led by Johnny Hodge with 16 points while Oliver Monsour and Jordan Clements each added 10 points.

December 11, 2007

VIRGINIA UNION SLIDES PAST STATESMEN 62-84
By Michael Nienaber

RICHMOND, Va. – The Delta State Statesmen fell to perennial division 2 powerhouse, Virginia Union University, Tuesday by a final of 62-84 in Richmond. The loss was the third on the season and second in a row for the Green and White. The Panthers improved to 3-1 on the year.

The Panthers put the clamps on the Statesmen offense from the tip-off to the buzzer. The stiff defense held Delta State to just 43-percent from the floor and 35-percent from three. The Statesmen were led Anthony Fizer’s 17 points and closely followed by Ray Selvage’s 14. They were the sole Statesmen in double-figures on the night. The Panthers had four with more than nine, led by Brandon Byerson with 19.

The Statesmen got down ten points before Oliver Mansour pried the lid off the DSU goal two and a half minutes in, but they would never get the score closer than six for the rest of the game. The Statesmen shot just five foul shots on the evening and hit only one. The Panthers were 20-of-27 from the free-throw line.

he Statesmen will look to pull out of this early slump this Friday at 6:30 CST against the University of Charleston ( West Virginia) Golden Eagles in the Salem International Classic in Salem, West Virginia. They face-off with the SIU Tigers on Saturday.

December 7, 2007

STATESMEN SIGN TRANSFER FROM COLORADO STATE

CLEVELAND - Coach Jason Conner announced his second signing for the 2008-09 season Friday with the commitment from Alton Robinson, a 6-foot-7 forward from Hattiesburg.  The Statesmen recruited Robinson out of high school and are pleased that he decided to give the Green-and-White a second look. 

“We are excited to have Alton playing for us next year.  He will give us instant scoring and rebounding down low, but more importantly, he is on track to graduate on time, making him a good fit all-round,” said Conner.

The Hattiesburg native played at Colorado State last season, but wanted to return to Mississippi for his final year of eligibility.  He netted eight points and four rebounds in 12 minutes against in-state rival Colorado in Boulder.  The 6-7 forward played in ten games for the Rams before deciding that he wanted to return home.

Robinson was named the Region XXIII Player of the Year at Pearl River Community College, averaging 23 points and 11 rebounds per game for Coach Richard Mathis.  He scored 52 points in one of his games at Pearl.  Before that, he averaged 25 a night at Hattiesburg High School.

December 1, 2007

LIONS HAND STATESMEN 91-78 LOSS
By Michael Nienaber, Men’s Basketball Contact

• Box Score: UNA 91 vs. DSU 78  

FLORENCE , ALA. – The Delta State University men’s basketball team fell 78-91 to the University of North Alabama Lions at Flowers Hall on Saturday. The Lions improved to 6-2 on the season, while the Statesmen dropped to 3-2.

The men in green struggled in the first half, allowing the Lions to take a 10 point lead into the locker room at the break, 46-36.

The Statesmen shot 44-percent from the floor in the frame, connecting on just 13-of-32 from the field. The Lions, on the other hand, shot an even 50-percent in the half, going 17-for-34 and 6-of-12 from behind the three-point arc.

The Lions showed no signs of slowing down as the second half began on a 14-7 UNA run. The Statesmen trailed 43-60 at the 14-minute mark, giving the Lions their largest lead of the game at 17. It seemed every time the Statesmen would cut into the lead that the Lions answered right back. As a result, the Statesmen were never able to climb out of the hole from the first half.

Delta State was led by Oliver Mansour with 17 points. Eric Spencer and Johnny Hodge joined him in double-figures with 13 and 11 points respectively. North Alabama was paced by Casey Holt’s 30 points and six rebounds.

The Statesmen return to action December 11, as they travel to Richmond, Va., to take on Virginia Union University. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. EST.

November 28, 2007

STATESMEN BASKETBALL ADDS ANTOINE TAYLOR TO 2007 SIGNING CLASS

CLEVELAND – Delta State head men’s basketball coach Jason Conner announced the signing of Antoine Taylor, a 6-foot-7, 225-pound forward, Tuesday for the 2008-09 season.  Taylor’s signing is the first this season for the Statesmen. 
               
“We’re excited about the addition of Antoine Taylor to our lineup next season,” stated Conner.  “He has tremendous potential and the makeup to be one of the best here at DSU.” 
               
Taylor is currently averaging 16.6 points per game and 6.1 rebounds as a sophomore for head coach Derrick Fears at Mississippi Delta Community College. Taylor scored a season-high 36 points and grabbed 18 boards against Lee Junior College in Texas earlier this year. He also posted 22 points and grabbed 10 rebounds against Pearl River Community College.
               
“We expect Antoine to play a combo-forward spot for us at the three and four position,” added Conner.  “He has the size to pound it inside, but he can also step out and knock down the jumper.  He’s just a great player.”
               
Fears spoke highly of his talented star, stating, “Antoine (Taylor) has matured on and off the court this season. He had provided leadership, hard work, and discipline to this year’s team, as he helps lead this team to a higher level.”
               
Taylor is the son of Helen Williams of Memphis, Tenn.

November 26, 2007

Eric Spencer’s three-pointer with 2.9 seconds remaining in overtime seals 72-68 win for Statesmen over Wolves
By J.T. Webb, Media Relations

• Box Score: Final Stats

CLEVELAND – Eric Spencer’s three-pointer from the right wing with 2.9 seconds remaining in overtime lifted the Delta State (3-1) men’s basketball team to a 72-68 victory over West Georgia (4-1) at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The Marion, Ark., native led all scorers with 24 points.

“What a win tonight,” said an excited Jason Conner, head coach of Delta State. “We made some big plays late in overtime to deliver the win. Eric’s shot from the wing was priceless!”

Down one, 67-68, with :18 seconds remaining, the Statesmen forced a turnover and quickly moved the ball up court. Justin Duke’s rebound of Chad Akins’ missed runner with nine seconds left gave DSU one last chance. Duke hit a cutting Spencer on the wing, who nailed the 24-footer for a 70-68 lead.

The Statesmen would steal the Wolves’ in-bounds pass to seal the win. Spencer connected on two late free throws to make the final 72-68.

The first half proved to be a back-and-forth affair with the Wolves closing the half with a 40-34 lead. UWG shot 45.2 percent (14-of-31) in the first half, while DSU managed 51.9 percent on 14-of-27 shooting.

The Statesmen held the Wolves to just 30 percent in the second half on 9-of-30 shooting from the field, while connecting on 45.8 percent (11-of-24) to edge the opposition 30-24.

The Statesmen edged the Wolves on the glass, 36-35, but turned the ball over 27 times.

Eric Spencer finished the game 8-of-9 from the floor and 4-of-5 from three point range for a career high 24 points. Earnesto Green dropped in 15 points with Chad Akins contributing 11 points and seven assists.

Sheldon Harris and Henrick Foster finished with 12 points each.

The Statesmen return to the court on Saturday, Dec. 1 at North Alabama. Tip-off is set for 3 p.m. at Flowers Hall in Florence, Ala.

November 20, 2007

Statesmen basketball blasts UWA Tigers 96-78

• Box Score: DSU 96 at UWA 78  

LIVINGSTON, Ala. – The Delta State men’s basketball team placed five players in double figures en route to a 96-78 victory over West Alabama Wednesday at Pruitt Hall. The Statesmen improved to 2-1 on the season, while the Tigers slipped to 1-1.

“We played with a singular focus tonight,” said DSU head coach Jason Conner. “For 40 minutes we played as a team and executed well on both ends of the floor. Chad Akins and Ernesto Green both turned in outstanding performances, but when you look at the box score we had 11 guys that contributed to this victory.”

The first half was a back-and-forth affair for two of the Gulf South Conference’s charter members. UWA held a slim 40-37 lead at the half thanks to lights-out three point shooting (7-of-13). DSU was equally as warm from the floor, but couldn’t convert on several second chance points.

The second half was a completely different story for the green-and-white. The Statesmen held the Tigers to 33-percent from beyond the arch, while connecting on 57 percent of their attempts to out-score UWA 59-38 in the second half. DSU held a 26 point lead at one point in the second frame.

“We were able to make several adjustments that kept UWA at arms length,” added Conner. “In the second half we were also able to create several free throw opportunities that turned into easy points.”

DSU finished the game 36-of-66 from the field for 56 percent, while UWA shot 32-of-68 for 47 percent. The Statesmen forced 21 Tiger turnovers that translated into 27 points. DSU also pounded the paint, out-scoring UWA 48-26.

For a second time this season, junior Ernesto Green led the Statesmen in scoring with 19 points. The Jackson native connected on 6-of-9 shots from the field, including 3-of-5 from three point range.

Chad Akins, a sophomore from Madison, delivered six assists and three steals, while scoring 17 points from the point. Eric Spencer and Ray Selvage added 12 points each, while David Clark added 11 points off the bench. Junior Brad Skipper narrowly missed a double-double with nine points and nine rebounds.

West Alabama placed four players in double figures led by Chris Malone’s 16 points.

Delta State will return to Walter Sillers Coliseum on Monday, Nov. 26, as the Statesmen play host to the Wolves of West Georgia. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. The game will be broadcast on the Statesmen Sports Network starting at 6:45 p.m. Matt Jones, John Cox and J.T. Webb have the call.

November 19, 2007

Statesmen basketball falls to Wolfpack 78-71

NEW ORLEANS , La. – Despite Justin Duke’s career-high 20 points, the Delta State men’s basketball team (1-1) fell, 71-78, to the Loyola-New Orleans Wolfpack (4-1) at The Den on Monday. It was the first loss of the season for the Statesmen and head coach Jason Conner.

“We had our chances tonight, but we just couldn’t capitalize when we needed to in the second half,” said Conner. “Justin Duke was lights out tonight, but we couldn’t seem to make the stops late in the game we needed.”

The Statesmen placed four players in double figures led by Duke. The 6-foot-3 junior guard connected on 6-of-9 three point attempts to lead the Statesmen with 20 points. Ray Selvage, Eric Spencer and David Clark all chipped in 10 points each. Selvage also finished with a team-high five rebounds.

Wolfpack guard Luke Zumo led all scorers with 30 points. Zumo connected on 10-of-14 shots, including 5-of-8 from three point range. Mario Faranda added 17 points in the win.

The Statesmen finished the game shooting 46 percent (26-of-56) from the field and 55 percent from three point range on 10-of-18 attempts. The Wolfpack managed 45 percent (23-of-51) from the field and 53 percent (8-of-15) from beyond the arch.

Loyola took advantage of several late free throw opportunities to seal the win. The Wolfpack made 24-of-35 free throw attempts, while the Statesmen were just 9-of-22 from the charity stripe. DSU edged LU 38-36 on the boards and 16-12 in assists.

Delta State will conclude its three game road trip on Wednesday at the University of West Alabama. Tip-off with the Tigers is set for 4 p.m.

November 17, 2007

Statesmen open season with 75-65 win over Tuskegee

• Box Score: DSU 75 - TU 65

TUSKEGEE, Ala. - The Delta State men's basketball team opened the season with a 75-65 come-from-behind road win over the Tigers of Tuskegee University Saturday at The James Center Arena. The Statesmen were led by Ernesto Green's 13 points in the win.

"This was a great win for us tonight on the road in a hostile environment," Jason Conner, DSU head coach stated. "Tuskegee is a very good that will compete for the SIAC title and I am very proud of the guys for their effort."

Trailing by nine at the half, DSU exploded in the second half to cruise to the 10 point win. The Statesmen out-scored the Tigers 54-35 in the second half while shooting 70 percent from the field.

The Statesmen placed four players in double figures led by Green's 13 points. Chad Akins and Xavier Ruth dropped in 12 points each, with Akins adding eight assists. Justin Duke added 11 points as well.

Tuskegee was led by Preston McCarter's 15 points.

DSU shot 52 percent for the game, while TU connected on just 35 percent of their attempts. The Statesmen also dominated the boards 46-31.

The Statesmen will return to action on Monday at Loyola University of New Orlean. Tip-off is slated for 7 p.m.

15 October 2007

STATESMEN AND LADY STATESMEN BASKETBALL TO BEGIN FALL PRACTICE TUESDAY

CLEVELAND – Preparation for the upcoming men’s and women’s basketball season will hit full stride on Tuesday, as the Statesmen and Lady Statesmen of Delta State University begin fall practice at Walter Sillers Coliseum.  The Statesmen, under the direction of head coach Jason Conner, will start practice at 3 p.m., while coach Sandra Rushing’s Lady Statesmen will open practice at 8:30 p.m. 

The Lady Statesmen, two-time defending Gulf South Conference champions, will open the season ranked No.7 in the preseason Division II Bulletin Top 25 Poll.  Delta State finished last season 28-3 and advanced to the NCAA Sweet Sixteen.  Jennifer Rushing returns for her senior season after capturing Kodak All-American and GSC Player of the Year honors last season. 

“My girls will tell you they’re tired of conditioning work,” said Rushing.  “We have four starters back, including Kodak All-American Jennifer Rushing, off last season’s squad and a great group of newcomers.  Practice will be exciting this fall.”

The Statesmen will feature 11 new players this year after posting an 18-10 overall record in Jason Conner’s first season as head coach.  Senior small forward Johnny Hodge, an All-GSC Second Team selection in 2006-07, will anchor the backcourt for DSU.  Chad Akins, last season’s co-GSC West Division Freshman of the Year, returns to direct one of the league’s most explosive offenses.

“We have a great group of young men on this team,” stated Conner.  “I believe we have addressed our needs in recruiting and I look forward to getting them on the court Tuesday.”

The Statesmen will open the 2007-08 campaign in an exhibition against the Rebels of Ole Miss on Nov. 2 at Tad Smith Coliseum.  Tip-off is set for 7 p.m.  The Lady Statesmen will open their season Nov. 5 at Tennessee-Martin.  Tip-off is slated for 5:30 p.m.         

August 9, 2007

Statesmen Add Bevy of Newcomers

CLEVELAND – Delta State men’s basketball coach Jason Conner announced the addition of eight players to the 2007-08 roster.

Arna Selvage comes to Delta State after two years at Pearl River Community College. The 6-8 Wesson native averaged 16 points per game, 12 rebounds per game and six blocks per game at center. Selvage was a two-time All-Conference selection as a forward.

Oliver Mansour joins Selvage at the post. The 6-7 Melvouine, Australia native transferred to Delta State after two seasons at Beville State Community College. Mansour was named Second Team All-Conference his freshman season, averaging 12 points per game and eight rebounds per game.

Bradley Skipper will join the Statesmen after playing two seasons at Pensacola Junior College.  The 6-7 forward started two seasons at PJC, who competes in the Panhandle Conference, arguably the best junior college league in the country.  The Pace, Fla. native averaged eight points, six rebounds and three assists per game.

Erick Spencer is a native of Marion, Arkansas. He is transferring to DSU from Arkansas Ft. Smith. The 6-4 shooting guard averaged six points, and four rebounds a game his freshman year. He was a Junior College Academic All-American, boasting a 3.8 grade point average.

Justin Duke, a native of New Albany, played two seasons at Itawamba Community College under coach Marty Cooper. The 6-3 guard was the glue that kept the Indians battling for a spot at the top of all Mississippi junior college teams for the 2006-07 season. He averaged 11 points, four rebounds and three assists per game on a team that had eight sophomores, two D-I players and made it to the National Tournament in Kansas.

Ernesto Green played two seasons at East Central Community College under coach Maurice Bowie. Green earned All-Conference honors and was selected to play in the Mississippi North vs. South All Star Game. He was voted team captain of the 2006-07 Warriors by his peers. The 6-2 guard from Jackson led his team in scoring with 17.7 points and 4.8 assists per game.

Conner rounds out his 2007 signing class with the addition of two true freshmen guards.  Ryan Stevens comes to Cleveland from Orlando, Fla. While at Orangewood Christian HS the 6-3 Ryan averaged 19 points, 5.5 rebounds and, 4.2 assists per game. He was a member of the First Team All-Orange County Team. Stevens led the team in scoring his junior and senior year.

Xavier Ruth lettered for three years at Shannon High School under Coach Tim Vaughn. In three seasons with the Red Raiders, Ruth earned All-District all three straight seasons and All-State his senior year. The 6-3 guard demonstrates his consistency in the stat sheet, Ruth averaged 24.4 points and six rebounds per game over 3 seasons.

 

February 28, 2007

Alabama-Huntsville ends Delta State’s season with 74-69 win in First Round of Gulf South Conference Tournament

• Box Score

SOUTHAVEN - The Delta State University men’s basketball team (18-10) ended their 2006-07 campaign with a heartbreaking 69-74 loss at the hands of the University of Alabama-Huntsville Chargers (18-10) in the first round of the 2007 Gulf South Conference Tournament in Southaven on Wednesday at the Desoto Civic Center.

The Statesmen came out looking a little out-of-sorts as they fell behind 10-0 in the opening minutes. Staying true to form, however, coach Jason Conner’s squad battled to keep the game within reach. The Charger lead got as high as 11 off a free-throw from Jason Smith with 15:06 left in the half. The Statesmen answered with a run of their own and had the deficit down to a single goal with two minutes to play. Alabama-Huntsville was able to finish off the half on another 7-0 run to go into the locker room up nine, 34-25.

The Statesmen came out breathing fire as they outscored the Chargers 13 to 3 to start the second half, taking their first lead of the night, 38-37, off a Josh Williams three pointer. For much of the half the game went back-and-forth with the lead changing hands a couple more times. But, unfortunately for the Statesmen, UAH was able to regain control again late, rebuilding their lead as high as 10 with a minute left to play. A last ditch effort in that final minute would come up just short as DSU was only able to cut that lead to three before foul shots would put the game out of reach.

Delta State was led by Marlon McCoy, who scored a game-high 23 points in 36 minutes. Turmaine Rice added 15 points and eight rebounds, while Johnny Hodge had 14 and seven. Alabama-Huntsville had five players in double figures led by Jason Smith with 14.

The loss marked the first time since the 1983-84 season that a Delta State squad did not advance past the first round of the tournament.

February 27, 2007

Statesmen place three on All-GSC teams; Chad Akins named co-GSC West Division Freshman of the Year

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Gulf South Conference announced Tuesday that Delta State University senior guards Turmaine Rice and Marlon McCoy, and junior forward Johnny Hodge had garnered All-GSC postseason honors.  Chad Akins was also named the co-GSC West Division Freshman of the Year.  It is the first time since 1998 that the Statesmen have placed three players on the All-GSC teams.

“Turmaine, Marlon, Johnny, and Chad have worked hard to get this team to where it is today,” said DSU head coach Jason Conner.  “They bought into our system from day one and have this squad ready to defend its GSC title this week at the conference tournament.” 

Turmaine Rice, a 6-foot-3 guard from Minden, La., was named to the All-GSC First Team.  Rice has led the Statesmen in scoring seven times this season, while averaging 16.8 points per game.  The deadly outside shooter has also knocked down a team-leading 69 three pointers en route to shooting 43.9 percent from beyond the arch. 

Marlon McCoy, a 6-foot-2 guard from Baton Rouge, La., and Johnny Hodge, a 6-foot-5 forward from Monroe, La., garnered All-GSC Second Team honors.  McCoy has averaged 13.7 points and 4.0 rebounds per game this season for Jason Conner’s Statesmen.  The crafty shooter upped his averages to 14.8 points and 4.2 boards per game against GSC opponents this season.  Hodge leads the Statesmen in scoring this year at 17.0 points and in rebounds with 5.8 per game.  He also increased his averages to 18.2 points and 6.8 rebounds per game in league play.       

Chad Akins becomes only the fourth player in school history to garner GSC West Division Freshman of the Year honors.  Akins, a 6-foot-1 guard from Madison, averaged 6.0 points, 3.0 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game as true freshman out of Madison Central High School.  He finished the regular season ranked fifth in steals (2.0) and ninth in assists per game in the GSC.  Akins shared the honor with Christian Brothers’ Kyle Couvion.   

The All-GSC teams and postseason honors are selected by a vote of the league’s coaches.   By league rule, no ties are broken.           

February 25, 2007

Statesmen and Lady Statesmen relish opportunity to defend Gulf South Conference titles

• GSC Tournament website

CLEVELAND – Delta State University basketball fans will have a rare opportunity to see the Statesmen (18-9, 8-6 GSC) and the fifth ranked Lady Statesmen (23-3, 13-1 GSC) defend their Gulf South Conference titles this week at the 2007 GSC Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament in Southaven. The five-day event begins Wednesday at the Desoto Civic Center.

Last season, the Statesmen defeated Montevallo, 71-67, for the men’s title, while the Lady Statesmen duplicated the feat with a 64-53 win over Henderson State in the women’s championship. The GSC has only experienced same-school champions on three occasions and Delta State holds the distinction of being the only school to accomplish the feat.

This year, the Statesmen and Lady Statesmen have continued to experience success on the court. Sandra Rushing’s Lady Statesmen enters the tournament as the West Division’s top seed and will play the winner of the Henderson State-Montevallo game on Thursday, March 1 at 7:30 p.m.

“We’ve prepared for this opportunity since day one,” said Rushing. “Our ladies are excited about the chance to repeat as GSC champions, but they are aware that we will have to play our best basketball yet this season.”

Jason Conner’s Statesmen, seeded fifth out of the West, will play Wednesday, Feb. 28 at 5:30 p.m. versus the Chargers of the University of Alabama at Huntsville. The game is a rematch of last year’s semifinal (DSU 74-72). The winner will face Henderson State, the West’s top seed on Friday at 12:30 p.m.

“It doesn’t feel like tournament time should be here, but our guys are excited about the chance to play in the GSC Tournament,” added Conner. “This year’s tournament is loaded with talented teams and to defend our title will be a great challenge.” Conner concluded, “I think our guys are up to it.”

Tickets are now available to this year's event and can be obtained by calling the DeSoto Civic Center Box Office at (662) 470-2131. Ticket prices are as follows: Single day (Adults $10; Children 11 and under $5); All-Tournament Passes ($35). Students and Senior citizens receive $2 discount with proper I.D. All tickets are general admission.

The Statesmen Sports Network will also have complete coverage of the tournament beginning 15 minutes before each scheduled Statesmen or Lady Statesmen contest. Matt Jones, J.T. Webb, and John Cox have the call. All SSN broadcasts will also be available online at www.GoStatesmen.com.

February 24, 2007

Reddies down Statesmen 66-54 to claim West Division title

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. - The Delta State Statesmen (18-9, 7-7 GSC) dropped their final regular season contest of the season 66-54 at 20 th-ranked Henderson State (20-7, 11-3 GSC) Saturday night.

The Statesmen took a little while to get going against the fast-paced Reddies, falling back 10-5 early off 2-of-10 shooting, but Jason Connor’s squad would warm up tying the game 15 all at the 10-minute mark. The two teams continued the break-neck pace throughout the period, with neither team able to get much of a lead. Henderson took a three-point lead into the half at 29-26.

Delta State came out of the locker room cold, adding only four points in five minutes, allowing the Reddies to expand their lead as high as nine. But, once again, these Statesmen won’t quit, and kept battling to keep the game within reach. However, the Statesmen were never able to fully recover, as the Reddies were able to pull away late.

The Statesmen shot 34-percent for the game, going 18-of-52 from the floor and 62-percent from the charity stripe. Brian Jenkins led the Statesmen with 17 points and 9 rebounds. Johnny Hodge also scored in double-figures with 13. The Reddies were led by Dee Dee Drake with 19 points and 10 rebounds on the night.

The Statesmen will begin their Gulf South Conference Title defense Wednesday night at the 2007 GSC Basketball Tournament in Southaven. With tonight’s loss the best the Statesmen can hope for is a four-seed. Final seeding for the tournament will be out tomorrow after all of Saturday’s games are in the book.

February 22, 2007

Statesmen edge Wonder Boys 74-69 to earn berth in GSC tourney

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University men’s basketball team fought off a furious second-half effort by Arkansas Tech to snap a two-game skid and hold on for a 74-69 win Thursday night at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The win sealed a GSC Tournament berth for the Statesmen next week in Southaven.

Delta State came into tonight’s game as the fourth seed in the West division, a win against Arkansas Tech would send them to Southaven for certain. The win improves them to 18-8 on the year and 8-5 in the GSC giving head coach Jason Conner his first GSC tournament appearance.

Delta State opened the game clicking on all cylinders, shooting 16-of-25 from the floor including 5-of-8 from behind the arch. Tech made a good run to start the game, leading by as many as five but fizzled in the last five minutes as the Statesmen extended their lead to 13.

Senior Turmaine Rice couldn’t miss a shot, shooting 7-of-8 from the floor including 2-of-2 from three point range to lead the Statesmen with 19 points and seven boards. Derrick White helped out with seven points of his own.

The Wonder Boys were led by Terrence Whiters’ 11 point performance, but still trailed at the break 40-27.

The second half was a different story for the Statesmen, as they looked to extend their lead with authority, going on an 18-6 run. That quickly faded as the Wonder Boys fought their way back to cut the lead to four with 1:41 reaming in the game. Despite out-shooting DSU in the second half with 48 percent from the floor, the Statesmen rallied to hold on to the lead.

Rice finished the night with a double-double performance, 30 points and 10 rebounds to lead all scorers. Derrick White helped out with 14, while Johnny Hodge threw down 13 points and four boards.

The Wonder Boys were led by Terrance Whiters who finished with 24 points and four rebounds.

The Statesmen conclude their regular season action with a trip to Arkadelphia, Ark. to take on Henderson State University Saturday. Tip-off is set for 4 p.m. at the Duke Wells Fieldhouse.

February 17, 2007

STATESMEN LOSE 61-65 HEARTBREAKER TO BUCS

CLEVELAND – The Statesmen dropped another close game 65-61 to the Buccaneers of Christian Brothers University at home Saturday. The Statesmen fought hard in the closing minutes, but the deficit proved to be too big to overcome. Christian Brothers hit 6-of-8 free-throws over the last 1:26 seconds to seal the victory.

Delta State jumped out to an early 7-2 lead just a minute and a half into the game, and then stretched the lead to ten at 16-6 with 15:15 left in the first half. The Statesmen shooters then went ice cold, not hitting a shot over the next seven minutes to let Christian Brothers back into the game.

The Buccaneers (19-6, 8-4 Gulf South Conferenc) took their first lead at 25-24 with 4:25 left in the half when Kevin Weybright knocked down a three-point shot. The momentum was swinging toward their favor when Reggie Peyton ended up with the ball all by himself after a Statesmen turnover and slammed it home.

The Statesmen (17-8, 7-5 GSC) answered right back with two three-point baskets from the hands of Turmaine Rice and Derrick White to reclaim the lead. The Statesmen offense then got their rhythm back, outscoring the Bucs 11-6 over the last 3:46 to take a 38-33 lead into the locker room at halftime.

Delta State shot 55.2 percent from the field in the first half and the Statesmen were 4-of-8 from three-point range. Derrick White was a perfect 6-for-6 and hit both of his free-throw attempts for 15 points in the first half.

Christian Brothers shot an impressive 72.2 percent in the first half including 3-of-4 from beyond the arc.

The Buccaneers quickly erased the Statesmen’s halftime lead, and gained a four point lead of their own, 47-43, with 14:09 left in the second half.

The Statesmen tied the game at 49 with just over eight minutes to play, and took a 58-57 lead with 2:06 left in the game. Unfortunately for the Statesmen, this would be the last time they would be within striking distance as the Bucs hit every key shot down the stretch.

The Statesmen shot 45.5 percent from the field for the game, but were just 3-of-7 from the free-throw line in the second half, a stat that proved to be the difference in the game.

Johnny Hodge led the Statesmen with 16 points and grabbed five rebounds, while White added 15.

Christian Brothers shot 55.8 percent on the game, and were 8-of-10 from the charity stripe in the second half.

Peyton led the Bucs with 19 points and Weybright added 16.

The Statesmen will be in action again Thursday, Feb. 22 as they host the Wonder Boys of Arkansas Tech. Tip off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

Muleriders upset Statesmen 65-63

MAGNOLIA, ARK. – The Delta State Statesmen (17-6, 7-4 GSC) dropped a tough one on the road tonight in Magnolia. The Muleriders of Southern Arkansas (10-14, 4-7 GSC) defeated DSU 63-65 inside the Watson Athletic Center.

The first half saw the lead change hands 11 times, as neither team was able to pull away from the other. Both Johnny Hodge and Marlon McCoy had 10 points apiece to lead the early effort. SAU took a one-point lead into the half off a last-second floater from Cory Green.

The second half proved more of the same with nine ties and six more lead changes. The Statesmen continued to battle throughout. With a minute to play Coach Jason Connor’s men found themselves down one and on defense. Leon Stone hit a critical lay-up putting the Riders up three. Marlon McCoy raced down the court and sent up a game-tying three that landed hard off the back side of the rim. The Muleriders then sealed the victory by hitting their free-throws down the stretch.

DSU shot 44-percent for the game off 23-of-52 from the floor. The Statesmen were led by Marlon McCoy with 20 points and four rebounds. Johnny Hodge added 15 while Turmaine Rice had 10. Corey Green led the way for the Muleriders, scoring a game-high 22 points.

The Statesmen will return to Walter Sillers Saturday night, as they play host to the Buccaneers of Christian Brothers University. Tip-off is scheduled for 6:00 p.m.

February 14, 2007

Delta State’s Turmaine Rice named Gulf South Conference West Division Player of the Week

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Delta State University senior guard Turmaine Rice has been named the Gulf South Conference Men’s Basketball West Division Player of the Week for the period ending Monday, Feb. 12.  Rice earns his first award of the season and the third for the Statesmen with an outstanding week of shooting and scoring, helping DSU notch two Conference victories and improving its overall GSC record to 7-3.

The senior was instrumental in the Statesmen’s 87-83 win over Harding, scoring 29 points and knocking down 7-of-11 three pointers. The Minden, La., native went 10-for-21 from the field and hit both free throws he attempted. Rice also pulled down four boards, blocked two shots and had three steals.

In another close contest two days later, Rice came up big again, scoring 21 points, grabbing five rebounds, dishing four assists and recording a block and a steal as DSU held on and beat Arkansas-Monticello, 82-79. The floor general finished the week shooting 53 percent from behind the arc.

Rice and the Statesmen will hit the court Thursday, Feb. 15 at Southern Arkansas University.  Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. at the W.T. Watson Athletic Center in Magnolia, Ark.           

February 10, 2007

STATESMEN WIN THRILLER IN MONTICELLO
By, Michael Nienaber

MONTICELLO, ARK. – The first 10 minutes of the game were all Weevil, but the final five were pure Statesmen, as the Delta State University men’s basketball team pulled out another spectacular come-from-behind victory, 82-79 over the University of Arkansas at Monticello.   The Statesmen improved to 17-6 overall and 7-3 in Gulf South Conference play with the win.  UAM dropped to 8-14 and 3-7 in league play. 

The Statesmen struggled to find the mark early, going just 7-of-15 from the field and only 1-of-5 from three.  The slump resulted in a Weevil lead in the first half which climbed as high as 17 before the shots began to fall.  Delta came out of the media timeout firing on all cylinders, closing the gap to just two off a 15-3 run at 4:47.  From that point on the streaks were over as both teams traded buckets for the remainder of the half.  The Weevils held on to their lead, going into the locker room up five, 41-36.

Delta battled back in the second half to bring the game to a 46-46 tie with 17 minutes remaining.  The two squads would trade buckets for the next 11 minutes with the Weevils clinging to a narrow lead until Johnny Hodge threw down a slam dunk to finally give the Statesmen a lead at 6:10.  UAM mounted a surge of their own and would tie the score with a Nate Newell three-pointer with 11 seconds left.  Then, UAM’s Chris Humes took out Johnny Hodge as he went up for a lay-up with 3.2 seconds on the clock.  Hodge missed the front-end but connected with the second.  Two more free throws from Marlon McCoy with 1.2 seconds would be all the Statesmen would need, as a last-second Hail Mary from Nate Newell landed off the top of the backboard as time expired.

DSU finished shooting 49-percent from the game, going 7-of-20 from behind the arc.  Monticello came in at 45-percent and 9-of-21 from three.  The Statesmen were led by Johnny Hodge’s 28 points and seven rebounds.  Marlon McCoy and Turmaine Rice also scored over 20 on the day, at 22 and 21 points respectively.  The Boll Weevils were led by Torre Doty with 28 points, with J.B. Williams and Nate Newell following with 24 and 22.

The Statesmen will be on the road again Thursday night as they travel to Magnolia, Ark., to take on the Muleriders of Southern Arkansas University. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30.

February 8, 2007

Statesmen claim 87-83 come-from-behind victory over Bisons

CLEVELAND – With just 12 seconds remaining in the game, the Delta State University men’s basketball team held a four point lead with Harding’s Cole Kee at the line shooting two free-throws. The senior for the Bisons missed them both with Johnny Hodge clearing the rebound for the Statesmen to seal a 10-point come-from-behind victory, 87-83 Thursday night at Walter Sillers Coliseum. With that win, the Statesmen break a three-game skid and improve to 16-6 on the year and 6-3 in the GSC. The Bison drop to 12-10, and 5-4 in conference play.

Harding came out hitting on all cylinders, going 12-of-22 from the floor. Led by Matt Hall’s 10 point effort. The Statesmen played hard in the first despite shooting 41 percent from the floor. They did manage four three pointers, three scored by Turmaine Rice alone. The Statesmen were led by Rice and Derek White with 11 each.

Delta State came out in the second half a completely different team, shooting an amazing 60 percent from the field. With just over five minutes remaining, the Statesmen took the lead and didn’t look back. Rice tuned on the heat, going 7-of-11 from behind the arch to finish with a game high 29 points. Johnny Hodge finished the night with 21 of his own, while Marlon McCoy rounded out the scoring with 19.

Harding was led by Rick Hamilton’s 20 points, while Matt Hall chipped in 18 and nine rebounds.

The Statesmen will travel to the University of Arkansas-Monticello on Saturday. Game time is set for 2 p.m. at the Steelman Field House in Monticello, Ark.

February 1, 2007

Tigers outscore Statesmen 20-9 in overtime to claim 92-81 victory

ARKADELPHIA, Ark.— Despite Justin Neely’s last second three pointer to send the game into overtime, the Delta State University men’s basketball team could not hold off the Tigers of Ouachita Baptist University dropping a 92-81 loss at Bill Vining Arena on Thursday. The loss extends Delta State’s losing streak to a season-high three games.

The Statesmen fall to 15-6 on the season and 5-3 in Gulf South Conference play, while the Tigers improved to 10-10 on the year and 5-3 in league play.

Trailing by as many as 10 points late in the game, Delta State made a furious comeback to cut the Tiger lead to one with less than a minute remaining in regulation. A pair of Jaranimo Marks’ free throws extended the Tiger lead to three with 9.6 seconds left. DSU’s Justin Neely would take the inbounds pass and drive down court. As the horn sounded his 27-foot desperation heave hit nothing but net to send the game into overtime.

In overtime, the Statesmen could not solve the Tigers offense, as OBU outscored the Statesmen 20-9 in the extra period. The Tigers finished the game shooting 56 percent (30-of-53) from the floor, while DSU managed 42 percent (27-of-65). OBU out-rebounded DSU 37-30, and forced 12 Statesmen turnovers.

The first half was a back-and-forth struggle between the two GSC schools. DSU jumped out to a fast 13-4 lead, but OBU closed the half with eight points to take the lead into the locker room 32-21. Jaranimo Marks’ driving lay-up with 31 seconds left gave the Tigers the lead.

DSU connected on 11-of-27 shots in the first half for 41 percent, while OBU hit on 12-of-27 shots for 44 percent. Both teams were hot from three point range, as the Statesmen were 4-of-11 (36 percent) and the Tigers were 5-of-13 (39 percent).

Turmaine Rice led the Statesmen with a season-high 31 points. Johnny Hodge added 15 points and Derrick White dropped in 13 for DSU in the losing effort.

Memo Rodriquez paced OBU with 24 points, while Derrick Woods chipped in with 21 points and eight rebounds.

After a week layoff, the Statesmen will return to Walter Sillers Coliseum to face the Bisons of Harding University. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m.

 

January 30, 2007

Deandre Chandler’s 24 points lead Central State to 85-80 victory over Delta State

CLEVELAND – Deandre Chandler’s 24 points powered the Marauders of Central State University (16-4) to an 85-80 victory over the Statesmen of Delta State University (15-5) Thursday at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The loss was the second-straight for the Statesmen.

The first half saw both teams shooting well from the floor, with both teams topping the 50 percent barrier. DSU hit on 16-of-30 shots for 53 percent, while Central State connected on a blistering 20-of-29 shots for 69 percent.

The second half was more of the same, as CSU shot 58 percent on 15-of-26 from the floor. DSU managed 13-for-27 for 48 percent.

Turmaine Rice paced the Statesmen with 25 points on 7-of-12 shooting. Johnny Hodge added 17 points and seven rebounds, while Derrick White tallied 15 points. Chad Akins dished out six assists and scored eight points as well.

DSU finished the game 29-of-57 for 51 percent, while CSU shot 35-of-55 for 64 percent. The Marauders also out-rebounded DSU 28-23, and forced 21 Statesmen turnovers.

Derrick Chandler hit on 11-of-12 shots for 24 points to lead CSU. William Gaines scored 18 points as well.

The Statesmen return to Gulf South Conference action this Thursday, February 1 at Ouachita Baptist University. Tip-off is set for 8 p.m. at Bill Vining Arena in Arkadelphia, Ark.

 

January 27, 2007

ATLANTA HAWKS SIGN FORMER STATESMEN JEREMY RICHARDSON TO 10-DAY CONTRACT

GREENVILLE, S.C.- The Atlanta Hawks today signed Fort Worth Flyers forward Jeremy Richardson to a 10-day contract, according to Hawks’ Executive Vice President/General Manager Billy Knight. Richardson is the seventh Gatorade Call-Up from the NBA Development League this season, the second from the Flyers.

The 6-foot-7 Richardson has started 15 games this season for the Flyers, averaging 18.5 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 1.5 apg (.466 FG%, .404 3FG%, .864 FT%). He is tied for 11th in the league in scoring. Richardson was selected by the Flyers with the ninth pick of the second round in the 2006 D-League Draft.

Last season at Delta State University, Richardson started all 31 games, and averaged 17.8 ppg and 5.0 rpg (.492 FG%, .404 3FG%, .810 FT%), leading the Statesmen with 65 3-pointers made, and scoring 20 or more points 12 times. He put in 15.0 ppg and 4.2 rpg as a junior in 2004-05.

He was named First Team All-Gulf South Conference following both his junior and senior campaigns, and is the school’s 14th all-time leading scorer. Richardson played his first two collegiate seasons at Copiah-Lincoln Community College in Wesson, MS.

Release courtesy of NBA D-League, and photo by Lane Murdoch (NBAE/Getty Images).

January 27, 2007

17th-ranked Reddies steal 62-55 victory over 20th-ranked Statesmen

CLEVELAND – Delta State lost another emotional thrill ride as the 17 th-ranked Reddies of Henderson State University held off the charging Statesmen late in the game to win 62-55.

Down 12 with just under nine minutes left in the game, the Statesmen went on a 12-2 run to cut the lead to two, 55-53, with a minute left in the game. The Reddies hit four free-throws in the final minute to clinch the victory.

The loss was the second in two games for the Statesmen against ranked opponents and gives them an overall record of 15-4, ( 5-2 Gulf South Conference.) The win pushed the Reddies record to 15-5, and they now hold sole possession of first place in the GSC West with a 6-1 mark.

The Statesmen jumped out to an early 8-2 lead after the first four minutes of the first half, but the Reddies fought back with a 9-1 run of their own to take their first lead of the game with just over 11 minutes left in the first half.

The Reddies stretched the lead to five and were gaining steam before Josh Williams stole the inbound pass after a pair of Johnny Hodge free throws and set up Derrick White for a lay-up to cut the lead to one, 15-14 with 6:19 left in the half.

The Reddies didn’t waste any time regaining the momentum, as they outscored the Statesmen 13-8 to take a 28-22 lead at halftime.

The Statesmen shot 38.1 percent from the field in the first half and connected on just 1-of-8 attempts from three point range. The Statesmen hit just 5-of-9 from the free-throw line and were out-rebounded 15-12.

The Reddies shot 47.6 percent from the field, but hit 2-of-4 from beyond the arc. They also hit four free-throws for 57.1 percent from the charity stripe.

Hodge led the Statesmen with 17 points, and Marlon McCoy added 10 as the only other Statesmen shooter in double digits.

The Statesmen shot just 43.8 percent from the field and never found the touch from three-point range, shooting just 1-of-14 from beyond the arc.

Dee Dee Drake led all scorers with 21 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to lead the Reddies.

Henderson State shot 59.5 percent from the field, 50.0 percent from three-point range.

The Statesmen will be in action at home Tuesday, Jan. 30 as they host the Marauders of Central State. Tip off is set for 7:00 p.m.

January 25, 2007

Hodge and Rice combine for 37 points to lead 20th-ranked Statesmen to 90-77 victory at Arkansas Tech

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Johnny Hodge and Turmaine Rice combined for 37 points to lead the 20th-ranked Delta State University men’s basketball team to a 90-77 victory over Arkansas Tech University Thursday at Tucker Coliseum.  .  The Statesmen improved to 15-3 overall and 5-1 in Gulf South Conference play, while the Wonder Boys fall to 4-14 overall and 0-6 in conference.

Johnny Hodge, a 6-foot-5 forward from Monroe, La., led the Statesmen with 19 points and nine rebounds.  Turmaine Rice added 18 points and three rebounds in the win.  Delta State’s victory combined with Henderson State’s loss gives the Statesmen a share of the GSC West Division lead.  

The Statesmen finished the game shooting 53 percent from the floor on 31-of-58 shooting.  The Wonder Boys also shot 53 percent on 30-of-56 shooting.  DSU nailed 6-of-19 shots from three point range, and 22-of-31 shots from the free throw line.  ATU managed 4-of-12 shots from three point land, and 13-of-29 from the free throw line. 

Delta State out-rebounded Arkansas Tech 40-29, and both teams combined for 37 turnovers.  DSU pulled down 11 second half rebounds as well.   

Sloppy play cost both teams opportunities in the first half, as Delta State carried a 42-35 lead into the locker room at halftime.  DSU and ATU combined for 23 first half turnovers, and an abysmal 10-for-27 from the free throw line. 

Turmaine Rice led the Statesmen in the first half with 13 points, while Johnny Hodge dropped in 12 points and cleared five boards.  Terrence Whiters led ATU and all scorers with 16 points. 

The Statesmen shot an impressive 53 percent (13-of-32) in the opening half, but failed to take advantage of free throw opportunities, connecting on just 5-of-11 attempts (46 percent).  The Wonder Boys shot a blistering 56 percent on 14-of-25 shooting, but also failed miserably at the free throw line connecting on 5-of-16 free throw attempts.  DSU out-rebounded ATU 21-16 in the first half. 

Derek White dropped in 14 points, while David Clark and Marlon McCoy added 12 points for the Statesmen.  ATU’s Terrence Whiters led all scorers with 27 points.  The junior from Baltimore also set a new ATU record for steals in a game with eight. 

The Statesmen return to Walter Sillers Coliseum on Saturday, January 27 versus Henderson State University.  Game time is set for 4:00 p.m.

January 20, 2007

#17-RANKED STATESMEN DROP CLOSE ONE 65-68 TO #20-RANKED BUCCANEERS

MEMPHIS, TENN.– Delta State lost a heartbreaker Saturday at Christian Brothers University 68-65. The loss snapped DSU's 12-game win streak.

The first half between the No. 17 Statesmen and the No. 20 Bucs was everything it was expected to be. The lead changed seven times, and the score was tied three times. The Statesmen held the biggest lead of the half at five and were out front for most of the half. However, Christian Brothers (15-3, 4-1 Gulf South Conference) found their rhythm and took advantage of sloppy play by the Statesmen (14-3, 4-1 GSC) late in the half. The Bucs outscored DSU 13-4 over the last few minutes to head into the locker room with a 33-29 lead.

Delta State shot 58.3 percent from the field. However, hit just one of seven three-point attempts and didn’t get to the foul line at all, despite six fouls by the Bucs. They also turned the ball over nine times, leading to eight Buccaneer points.

CBU shot 46.2 percent from the field, including six baskets from behind the arc.

Hodge finished with 22 points and eight rebounds to lead the Statesmen in both categories. Turmaine Rice added 16 and White scored 11. The Statesmen shot 51.0 percent from the field for the game and 75.0 percent from the charity stripe.

Kevin Weybright lived up to all the hype, scoring 24 points and grabbing nine rebounds for the Bucs, while Nick Kohs added 13. Kyle Couvion and Reggie Peyton each scored 10 a piece. CBU shot 48.9 percent from the field and connected 68.4 percent from the free throw line.

The Statesmen will be on the road again Thursday at Arkansas Tech, with tip-off set for 8:00 p.m. at Tucker Coliseum.

 

January 18, 2007

#17-RANKED STATESMEN CLAIM 12TH-STRAIGHT 66-61 OVER MULERIDERS

CLEVELAND - The No. 17 Statesmen showed the kind of heart and character that has come to be expected of a Delta State basketball team. Down by as many as seven points as late as six minutes to go in the game, the Statesmen stayed calm and collected as they trapped and pressed their way to a 66-61 victory over the Muleriders of Southern Arkansas University Thursday night at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

The Statesmen defense stiffened and the offense continued their hot shooting as they broke a 12-12 tie mid-way through the first half and stretched their lead to 31-25 before the final buzzer of the half.

The Statesmen (14-2, 4-0 Gulf South Conference) shot 50.0 percent from the field in the first half, while the Muleriders (7-10, 1-3 GSC) were held to just 38.5 percent. Both teams made three, three-point shots, and both made all of their free-throw attempts, DSU with four and SAU with 2.

Turnovers were the difference as the Statesmen committed just seven to the Muleriders nine, but were able to turn those nine into 11 points, while the Muleriders could score just four points off turnovers.

The Muleriders came out firing in the second half, taking just under five minutes to tie the game at 37-37. The Muleriders took the lead and extended it to eight with 7:38 left in the game before the Statesmen regained their composure and began cutting into the lead.

Marlon McCoy gave the lead back to the Statesmen with 4:35 left in the game. The Statesmen hit 6-of-8 free-throws down the stretch to claim the win.

McCoy was one rebound away from a double-double, dropping 22 points and grabbing nine rebounds to lead the Statesmen in both categories. Derrick White added 15 points and Turmaine Rice scored 11.

Mori Turpin led the Muleriders with 21 points, and Brandon Bealer added 12 in the loss.

The Statesmen shot 46.9 percent from the field, but hit 15-of-19 from the charity stripe. They also turned the Muleriders 18 turnovers into 19 points.

The Statesmen will be on the road Saturday as they travel to Memphis to take on the No. 20 Buccaneers of Christian Brothers at 4:00 p.m.

 

January 17, 2007

DELTA STATE’S MARLON McCOY NAMED GSC WEST PLAYER OF THE WEEK

CLEVELAND – Delta State University senior guard Marlon McCoy has been named the Gulf South Conference West Division Player of the Week for the period ending Monday, January 15.  It is the first honor for McCoy this season, and the second for Jason Conner’s Statesmen. 

Marlon McCoy, a 6-foot-3 senior from Baton Rouge, La., averaged 26.0 points and 7.0 rebounds in the Statesmen’s 2-0 week.  He also tallied a 66.7 percentage from the field and from three-point range and added a 16-for-16 effort at the free throw line.
           
The junior was one rebound away from a double-double, pouring in 24 points and grabbing a career-high nine rebounds in a 78-65 victory at Harding.  He capped the week, hitting for a career-high 28 points, while adding five boards in Delta State’s 11th straight win, 79-69 at home over Arkansas-Monticello.

McCoy and the Statesmen return to action on Thursday, January 18 versus the Muleriders of Southern Arkansas University.  Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum. 

January 17, 2007

DELTA STATE’S 11-GAME WIN STREAK VAULTS STATESMEN TO NO. 17 IN NABC POLL

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University men’s basketball team has claimed 11-straight victories, and on Tuesday Jason Conner’s Statesmen climbed five spots to No. 17 in the latest National Association of Basketball Coaches NCAA Division II Top 25 Poll.  The Statesmen (13-2, 3-0 GSC) received 72 votes in this week’s poll after holding down No. 22 in the January 9 rankings. 

The Statesmen continued their win streak with a pair of impressive victories last week.  DSU opened the week with a 78-65 victory over Harding University at Rhodes Field House in Searcy, Ark. on January 11.  Conner and the Statesmen followed the Harding win with an emotional 79-69 win over Arkansas-Monticello at Walter Sillers Coliseum on January 13.

Defending NCAA champion Winona State (15-0) claimed all eight first place votes for a fifth-straight week.  Clayton State (15-0) remained No. 2 followed by Central Missouri (14-0), Bentley (16-0), and Minnesota State (17-1) in the top five. 

The Gulf South Conference was also represented by No. 20 Christian Brothers (13-3).  Henderson State and Alabama-Huntsville were among the other schools receiving votes.     

The Statesmen return to action on Thursday, January 18 versus the Muleriders of Southern Arkansas University.  Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum. 

January 22, 2007

22nd-RANKED STATESMEN CLAIM 11TH-STRAIGHT WITH 79-69 WIN OVER UAM

CLEVELAND- The Delta State men’s basketball team needed a win Saturday, not only to keep their win streak alive, but for redemption after last year’s loss in the NCAA South Regional. Arkansas-Monticello came into Cleveland to repeat an upset; instead they went home with a 79-69 loss. The win makes it 11 in a row for the Statesmen and improves their record to 13-2 overall and 3-0 in the GSC. UAM drops to 6-9 and 1-2 in conference play. 
           
A first half packed full of excitement didn’t do any justice on the scoreboard as both teams were deadlocked at the break, 33-33. UAM came out of the gates early as Nate Newell kept the crowd quiet with his 15 point performance, including 3-of-6 from behind the arch. The Boll Weevils shot 46 percent from the field while out-rebounding the Statesmen 23-18.
             
DSU was led by Marlon McCoy who had 10 points and three boards, while Johnny Hodge cleaned the glass with nine of his own. The fans were not left disappointed as Turmaine Rice ended the half with a buzzer beater that tied the game.
           
Following the break, both teams were neck-and-neck. Midway through the half, the Statesmen took a commanding 60-53 lead. The Statesmen played hard in the paint, with Hodge and David Clark taking control under the basket on both offense and defense.
           
DSU broke through shooting 72 percent from the floor, including 6-of-7 from behind the arch while holding the Weevils to 47 percent shooting.
           
The Statesmen were led by McCoy with a career-high 28 points.  Rice knocked down 17 of his own and Hodge finished with the only double-double, 13 points and 13 boards.
           
Newell finished with 26 for the Weevils, while J.B. Williams chipped in with 15.
           
The Statesmen will host Southern Arkansas Thursday at Walter Sillers Coliseum.  Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m.

 

December 13, 2006

DELTA STATE’S JOHNNY HODGE GARNERS GSC PLAYER OF THE WEEK HONORS

CLEVELAND – Delta State University junior guard Johnny Hodge, a 6-foot-5 forward from Monroe, La., has been named the Gulf South Conference West Division Player of the Week for the period ending Tuesday, December 12.  It is the first honor of the year for the Statesmen.   
           
Hodge collects his first career award, leading the Statesmen to a 2-0 week, averaging 28.0 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.0 steals.  Hodge averaged 31.0 minutes per game, boasting a 69.2 field goal percentage and a 76.9 free throw mark.
           
The junior started the week, scoring a game-high 25 points led by a 8-for-10 effort from the floor in a 75-68 overtime win at GSC East Division foe West Alabama.  Hodge finished the week on a high note, posting a career-best 31 points while adding five steals and four rebounds in a 102-97 win at Dillard.

December 11, 2006

HODGE'S 31 LEADS STATESMEN PAST DILLARD

NEW ORLEANS, La. - Johnny Hodge scored a career-high 31 points Monday to lead the Statesmen (6-2) of Delta State University to a 102-97 victory over the Blue Devils (2-7) of Dillard University. The victory extended Delta State's win streak to four games.

"This was a big win for us tonight," said DSU head coach Jason Conner. "They forced us to play very fast and our guys responded very well." Conner added, "They didn't have an answer for Johnny and we were able to take advantage of that all night."

Hodge, coming off a 25-point performance versus West Alabama, has continued to play well for the Statesmen. The 6-foot-5, 200-pound junior from Monroe, La., also grabbed 10 rebounds.

Marlon McCoy added 20 points for Delta State with Turmaine Rice chipping in 18. Freshman point guard Chad Akins dropped in 16, while Karlton Fields scored 10.

The Statesmen return to the court on Wednesday in Carrollton, Ga., at the University of West Georgia. The Statesmen and Braves will tipoff at 7 pm.

 

December 9, 2006

STATESMEN CLAIM OVERTIME WIN IN LIVINGSTON

Courtesy of UWA Sports Information

LIVINGSTON, Ala. – In took an extra five minutes to decide the outcome of Saturday evenings Delta State-West Alabama men’s basketball game, with the Statesmen (5-2) walking away with a 75-68 win at Pruitt Hall.

UWA’s Jared Hembree hit a jumper, as time expired, to send the game into the extra session with a score of 64-64. The two points were part of his 10 on the night, as he was one of four Tigers in double figures.

Jenario Bunton led UWA (5-7) with 14 points, as Joe Eatmon came off the bench with 13 along with Raymond Shaw’s 13 points.

DSU’s Johnny Hodge led all scores with 25 points. Turmaine Rice added 16, as Josh Williams tacked on 11 points.

In what was a game of two different halves, Delta State posted 11 points in overtime, as UWA mustered only four points.

In the first half, Shaw gave UWA its first two points of the game and the early lead, but a trey from Rice answered the quick two points and gave the Statesmen its first, that they held for the first 10 minutes of the contest.

Hembree would give UWA its second lead of the game, on a three-pointer, with 9:23 remaining in the opening stanza, 15-13. The Tigers would hold the lead the remainder of the first half, getting up by as many as 13 points and entering up at the intermission 39-31.

The Tigers would start the second half just as DSU did the first half, but the Statesmen would chip away at the UWA lead and the tie game at 46 all with 12:39 remaining in regulation on a three-pointer from Rice.

Abdoulaye N’Diaye would give the Tigers back a brief lead on jumper, but the Statesmen would answer back with a trey from Chad Akins with 11:18 remaining in the second half.

UWA would fight back, tying the game on three different occasions coming down the stretch, including Hembree’s bucket at the end of regulation, but that is as close as the Tigers would come in the contest.

The Statesmen return to action on Monday at Dillard University. Game time is set for 7 pm.

December 3, 2006

STATESMEN SLAM ROYALS 106-48

CLEVELAND- Ecclesia College scored the first two points of the game, that was there only lead all night, as the Statesmen of Delta State University slammed the Royals 106-48 Sunday at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The win gives the Statesmen a 4-2 mark on the season, as the Royals fall to 1-12 on the year.

The Statesmen put on an offensive showcase in the early going, leading by as many as 26 points in the half. Fast-breaks led by good defensive stops helped the scoring for the most part, but shooting 57 percent from the floor doesn’t hurt either. Marlon McCoy led all scorers with 14 points, as the Statesmen led 50-28 at halftime.

The second half was much like the first, except for a few Johnny Hodge highlight reel dunks that led to Delta State’s 43 points off turnovers for the game. DSU also dominated inside, outscoring the Royals, 46-20 inside the paint. Defense was the key in the second half, holding the Royals to just 20 percent shooting while grabbing 44 rebounds.

The Statesmen had a season-high seven players in double figures on the night led by Hodge and McCoy, both with 18 points. Anthony Fizer, Trumaine Rice and Chad Akins knocked in 13 points apiece, Terry Peterson-Davis finished with 11 and Derrick White rounded out the scoring with 10.

Oscar Sealy and Donnie Williams led the Royals with 10 points apiece.

The Statesmen travel to Livingston, Ala., take on the University of West Alabama December 9. Tip-off is set for 7:30

 

November 30, 2006

DELTA STATE VERSUS ECCLESIA COLLEGE MOVED TO SUNDAY DUE TO WEATHER

CLEVELAND – Delta State University head men’s basketball coach Jason Conner announced on Thursday that Friday’s game with Ecclesia College had been moved to Sunday due to inclement weather in northwest Arkansas.  Tip-off has been rescheduled for 3 p.m. Sunday at Walter Sillers Coliseum. 

November 29, 2006

SECOND HALF EXECUTION LEADS STATESMEN TO 90-84 WIN OVER LIONS

CLEVELAND – Execution in the waning moments Wednesday night proved to be the difference in the game for the Delta State University men’s basketball team, as the Statesmen (3-2) came away with a 90-84 victory over the Lions (2-4) of the University of North Alabama at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

The Statesmen outscored the Lions 9-4 over the final 1:12 of the game to give the Statesmen the victory. Johnny Hodge and Turmaine Rice connected on four straight free throws when it mattered most for the Statesmen.

“Our guys played very well down the stretch tonight,” said DSU head coach Jason Conner. “Johnny, Turmaine and Marlon really picked up their play late in the second half to help us claim this win.”

The first half saw the Statesmen take a 44-36 lead into the locker room behind Turmaine Rice’s 11 points. Rice connected on 5-of-13 shots in the first half to lead DSU.

The Statesmen shot 54 percent in the first half on 19-of-35 shooting, while holding North Alabama to just 37 percent on 12-of-32 shooting. DSU also connected on 3-of-8 three pointers and 3-of-6 free throws. UNA shot 7-of-9 from the charity stripe.

The Lions stayed in the first half thanks to three point shooting. UNA drained five threes to keep the game close. Quinn Beckwith led all scorers with 19 points in the first half.

The second half proved to more like a track meet than a basketball game. UNA shot a blistering 46 percent from three point range to stay close in the second half, while DSU was just 2-of-11 from beyond the arc. The big difference proved to be the free throw line. The Statesmen shot 20-of-24 (77 percent) from the stripe, while UNA sank just 12-of-16 free throws.

DSU finished the game 31-for-64 (48 percent) from the floor and 5-for-19 (26 percent) from the three point range. UNA shot 27-for-65 from the floor for 41 percent and 11-for-26 from three point range for 42 percent.

Delta State had three players score at least 20 points in the win. Marlon McCoy led the team with 25 points on 9-of-12 shooting. The senior from Baton Rouge, La., also grabbed two rebounds and dished out an assist. Johnny Hodge, a 6-foot-6 junior from Monroe, La., contributed a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds. Turmaine Rice finished with 20 points and five rebounds.

North Alabama ’s Quinn Beckwith led all scorers with 32 points. Beckwith drained eight three pointers in the loss.

The Statesmen return to the court on Friday as Delta State plays host to Ecclesia College. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

November 25, 2006

STATESMEN FALL TO MAGICIANS 81-72

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - The Delta State University men's basketball dropped their second game of the year on Saturday with an 81-72 loss to the Magicians of LeMoyne-Owen College. The Statesmen fell to 2-2 on the season, while the Magicians climbed to 3-2. More information, including a complete recap, will be avilable Monday on GoStatesmen.com.

November 22, 2006

McCOY LEADS STATESMEN TO 92-57 VICTORY OVER KNIGHTS

CLEVELAND- A solid crowd at Walter Sillers Coliseum witnessed an offensive showcase displayed by the Delta State University (2-1) men’s basketball team in a 92-57 victory over the Knights of Southern University (3-6) Wednesday night.

The Statesmen looked like a team on a mission coming out of the gates, leading by as many as 20 points mid-way through the first half. Smooth passing and quick transitions down court led to a number of fast break chances leaving the Knights not so shiny on defense.

Led by Marlon McCoy’s 12 points and four rebounds Delta State shot 19-for-37 from the floor while holding Southern to just 9-of-24. The Knights were led by Berry Jordan with eight points and two boards while Justin Neely and Karlton Fields knocked in eight points apiece as the Statesmen led 49-22 at the break.

The onslaught continued in the second; reminiscent of last year’s dominant squad, Delta State just couldn’t miss from behind the arch, lighting up the crowd with every swish of the net. McCoy led the way shooting 7-of-9 from three point land.

The Knights finished with a better second half, going 11-of-18 from the floor. But it was the defense that sealed the win, as DSU cleaned the glass, out rebounding SU 34-24.

McCoy finished the night with 18 points and four rebounds, while Trumaine Rice chipped in with 16 and Karlton Fields knocked home 10 and four boards. Jordan led all scorers for Southern with 18, while Dominic Perry chipped in with 14.

The Statesmen travel to Memphis, Tenn. this Saturday to take on the Magicians of LeMoyne-Owen College. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m.

 

November 17, 2006

STATESMEN DROP HEARTBREAKER 60-61 TO GOLDEN BEARS OF MILES COLLEGE

CLEVELAND - Johnny Hodge needed to make one free throw to tie the game with less than two seconds remaining. After his second attempt bounced off the rim, the expression on his face said it all. Miles College, made it three in a row against Gulf South Conference teams, defeating the Delta State men’s basketball team in a heartbreaker, 61-60 Saturday at Walter Sillers Coliseum in the final game of the State Farm Classic. The loss drops the Statesmen to 1-1 on the year, while Miles improved to 3-0.

The Statesmen were held scoreless once again early in the contest, but quickly went on a 10-2 run to shift the momentum. Shooting 54 percent from the floor, and 4-of-7 from behind the arch, DSU went into the locker room with a 10 point lead, 34-24.

Chad Akins, led the Statesmen with seven points. Miles College was held to just 37 percent from the floor and were led in scoring by Anthony Ward and Alton Hicks, both with five points.

Miles came out in the second much like the first, however fouls really took away whatever momentum they were trying to carry. With DSU up by as many as eight late the in the game, Miles mounted a comeback and grabbed the lead with a three pointer by Andrew Jones.

The Statesmen carried the ball up court, and with one last drive, Hodge was fouled on his way to the basket. The arena was quiet has they saw both attempts rim out to give the Golden Bears the win.

Miles held the Statesmen to just 33 percent shooting in the second half, despite DSU going 11-for-16 at the free throw line. Trumaine Rice led the Statesmen with 17 points as Marlon McCoy chipped in with 10.

Miles was led by Eddie Ishman with 12 points and seven boards while Andre Jones knocked down 11.

Delta State returns to Walter Sillers Coliseum on November 22 as the Statesmen play host to Southern University of New Orleans. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m.

In the opening game of the night Southern Arkansas battled Clark-Atlanta down to the wire; shooting 74 percent at the free-throw line usually helps. The Muleriders picked up their first win on the season, 75-62.

Cory Green led all scorers with 20 points and Brandon Bealer picked up 15 and three boards. DeAllen Hicks finished with 14 points and three boards in the loss.

 

November 16, 2006

STATESMEN OPEN SEASON AND CONNER ERA WITH 66-49 WIN OVER CLARK-ATLANTA

Box Score

CLEVELAND- Head coach Jason Conner swarmed up and down the bench for most of the game; but when the Statesmen gathered a 14 point advantage mid-way through the second, he felt a little at ease knowing the first win was in the bag for his Statesmen basketball team. The Statesmen of Delta State University opened the 2006-07 season with a 66-49 win over Clark-Atlanta University at Walter Sillers Coliseum Friday night in the 10 th annual State Farm Classic.

The Statesmen got off to a slow start, going 0-for-5 before making their first bucket with 16 minutes left to play. Johnny Hodge, a junior transfer from Monroe, LA, led the green and white with 10 points in the first half, despite going 0-for-3 from behind the arch. Clark-Atlanta’s DeAllen Hicks led the team with 12 points. CAU shot 47 percent from the floor, while the Statesmen shot an even 50 percent.

Delta State stepped up the intensity in the second half, holding CAU to just eight points with just over 10 minutes remaining. The Statesmen were up by as many 14 points holding the opposition to just 9-for-25 from the floor. Clark-Atlanta did hold the upper hand on the glass, out rebounding DSU 35-34.

Hodge had an impressive debut with 16 points and four rebounds, while veteran Trumaine Rice knocked down 13 points with three rebounds. Karlton Fields chipped in with nine points and a team-high five boards.

The Statesmen take on Miles College in the second game of a double-header Saturday night. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m.

November 16, 2006

MILES DOWNS SOUTHERN ARKANSAS 72-64 IN GAME ONE OF STATE FARM CLASSIC

CLEVELAND - Fresh off their win against GSC powerhouse Montevallo, Miles College took on another GSC team, and made it 2-0, defeating Southern Arkansas 72-64 in game one of the State Farm Classic.

Miles’ Anthony Ward led all scorers with 17 points while teammate Andrew Jones chipped in with 16 and a game-high seven rebounds. The Muleriders were led by Cory Green with 17 points while Brandon Williams finished with 15.

Miles took over the game in the second half, shooting 55 percent from the floor while holding SAU to just 34 percent.

Southern Arkansas takes on Clark-Atlanta in the first game of a double-header. Tip-off is set for 4 p.m.

 

November 15, 2006

DEFENDING GSC CHAMPIONS READY TO BEGIN SEASON WITH STATE FARM CLASSIC

CLEVELAND – The 2006-07 season officially begins for the Delta State University men’s basketball team on Friday, as the defending Gulf South Conference champions host the 10th annual State Farm Insurance Classic at Walter Sillers Coliseum.  Delta State will host Clark-Atlanta University, Miles College and Southern Arkansas University in the two day event.
           
“This tournament has become one of the top early season tip-off tournaments in NCAA DII,” said DSU head coach Jason Conner.  “Clark-Atlanta and Miles are two of the top teams from the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and Southern Arkansas is making major strides in the GSC.” 
           
The State Farm Classic will begin Friday at 5 p.m. with Southern Arkansas facing Miles College.  The Muleriders and Golden Bears will be meeting for the first time at the State Farm Classic.  SAU features one of the biggest front courts in the GSC, while Miles will bring a frenetic style of play into Sillers Coliseum. 
           
The Statesmen will conclude the night versus Clark-Atlanta University at 7 p.m.  CAU averaged over 61 points per game last season in the SIAC, while the Statesmen feature a bevy of new players under first-year head coach Jason Conner.

Delta State returns two starters off last season’s Gulf South Conference championship squad that finished the season 30-2 and ranked No. 1 in the nation.  The Statesmen will be led by senior guards Trumaine Rice and Marlon McCoy.  Rice, a 6-foot-3 shooting guard from Baton Rouge, La., averaged 9.3 points and 2.1 rebounds per game last year.  McCoy, a 6-foot-2 combo-guard from Monroe, La., started two games last year before a knee injury ended his season prematurely.  McCoy has averaged 10.8 points and 4.1 assists per game in his career at Delta State.    
           
The State Farm Classic will conclude on Saturday with Southern Arkansas facing Clark-Atlanta at 4 p.m. and Delta State squaring off with Miles at 6 p.m. 

Admission is free and everyone is invited to attend.  Gates at Walter Sillers Coliseum will open at 4 p.m. on Friday and 3 p.m. on Saturday.  For more information, please contact the Delta State University Department of Athletics at (662) 846-4300.        

November 14, 2006

STATESMEN SIGN THREE IN EARLY SIGNING PERIOD

CLEVELAND – If recruiting is the true lifeblood of a program, then first-year head coach Jason Conner and the Delta State University men’s basketball team is hearty and healthy heading into the season.  Coach Conner announced the signings of three players on Wednesday at Walter Sillers Coliseum.  Justin Duke, Oliver Mansour and Xavier Ruth highlight Conner’s first recruiting class for the Statesmen.

“We have added a trio of talented players today,” said Conner.  “All three will make a major impact on this team next season.”  Conner added, “All three signees are team players that can score from anywhere on the court.” 

Justin Duke and Oliver Mansour will join the Statesmen from the junior college ranks, while Xavier Ruth will be an incoming freshman. 

Justin Duke, a 6-foot-3 shooting guard, has played the previous two seasons at Itawamba Community College.  The New Albany, Miss., native finished last season third in the nation in three point field goal percentage, while averaging 10 points and three rebounds per game for the Indians.  The sharp shooter was a four-year starter at New Albany High School, where he was a McDonald’s All-America nominee his senior year. 

Oliver Mansour, a 6-foot-7 power forward, will join the Statesmen after playing the past two seasons at Bevill State Community College.  The Victoria, Australia native averaged 12 points and seven rebounds per game last season for the Bears.  Mansour played high school basketball for the North Laurel Jaguars.  In four seasons, Mansour averaged 18 points, 12 rebounds and three assists per game.

Xavier Ruth, a 6-foot-3 shooting guard, will enter his senior season at Shannon High School in Tupelo.  The three-year starter has established himself as one of the top scorers in Mississippi high school basketball.  Ruth averaged 22.8 points, 7.7 rebounds, 5.8 assists, and six steals per game for the Red Raiders last season.     

November 6, 2006

REBELS HAND STATESMEN 80-69 EXHIBITION LOSS AT TAD SMITH COLISEUM

Box Score

OXFORD – The Delta State men’s basketball team fell 80-69 on Monday night to the Ole Miss Rebels at Tad Smith Coliseum in exhibition play. Johnny Hodge led the Statesmen and all-scorers with 19 points and 11 rebounds.

“Our effort was very good in the second half, and I am pleased with the way we finished out the game,” said DSU head coach Jason Conner. “Hodge and Rice played great for us and I know they will be ready to play when we tip it off at the State Farm Classic.”

The first half belonged to the Rebels, as Ole Miss led 51-25 at the break. Ole Miss shot 63 percent on 22-of-35 shooting in the opening frame. The Statesmen managed just 38 percent on 10-of-26 shooting. The Rebels also dominated the boards, out-rebounding Delta State 17-12 at halftime.

The second half was all green and white, as the Statesmen outscored the Rebels 44-29. Delta State shot 42 percent (13-of-31) in the second period from the floor, and 33 percent from three point range. The Statesmen defense held the Rebels to just 40 percent in the second half and just nine percent from three point range.

Turmaine Rice added 17 points and five rebounds for the Statesmen. Josh Williams finished with five points and four assists.

The Rebels were led by Bam Doyne’s 18 points. Todd Abernethy chipped in 15 points, while Kenny Williams added 12.

The Statesmen return to action on November 17 at the State Farm Classic in Cleveland.

 

August 18, 2006

STATESMEN RELEASE 2006-07 BASKETBALL SCHEDULE  

CLEVELAND – Jason Conner ’s first season as head coach at Delta State University will officially begin at 6 p.m. on November 6 with an exhibition at the University of Mississippi. The head coach of the defending Gulf South Conference Champions released the 2006-07 schedule on Friday. The schedule features 27 games with 15 dates scheduled for Walter Sillers Coliseum.

“We’re excited to have the schedule completed,” said Conner. “This year’s team will face a lot of talented teams and we were excited to get coach Kennedy and Ole Miss to play us in the exhibition season as well.”

The Statesmen will once again host the annual State Farm Insurance Classic on November 17-18 at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The University of Southern Arkansas, Miles College and Clark-Atlanta University will compete in the two-day tournament.

“It was very important for me to carry on the tradition of the State Farm Classic,” said Conner. “Coach Rives worked hard to establish one of the top pre-conference NCAA Division II tournaments in the country and we were excited to schedule it again this year.”

The Statesmen finished last season 30-2 en route to claiming the GSC title and the nation’s top ranking. DSU would advance to the second round of the NCAA Tournament before falling to UA-Monticello.

May 15, 2006

JASON CONNER INTRODUCED AS DELTA STATE’S FOURTEENTH HEAD COACH

CLEVELAND—Delta State University officially announced its 14th men’s basketball head coach, Monday, May 14, as Jason Conner was introduced to a crowd of over 100 inside Chadwick Dickson’s Statesmen meeting room.  Conner succeeds the legendary Steve Rives who announced his retirement in April after 20 seasons at the helm of the Statesmen basketball program. 

“I stand before you today as an example that dreams do come true,” said Conner.  “This is a tremendous opportunity for me and my family and I would like to thank Drs. John Hilpert and Brad Teague, the search committee and the Delta State University community for having the faith in me to lead this program into the future.” 

Conner’s hiring comes on the heels of an exhaustive search conducted by Delta State athletic director, Dr. Brad Teague and the search committee. 

“We had an exceptional pool of candidates and the decision came down to who was the right man for the job – Jason Conner is that man,”said Teague.  “ Jason Conner is the type of man that will lead this program successfully into the future and I believe he will continue to build upon the foundation laid by Steve Rives.” 

Teague also commented on the hard work and dedication the search committee put into this process. “Our search committee has worked tirelessly during this process and we greatly appreciate their efforts,” concluded Teague.

Conner recently completed his seventh season as the primary assistant coach for the Delta State University men’s basketball program and his 10 th overall.

Prior to joining the Statesmen program, Conner served the 1998-99 season as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator at the University of South Alabama.  The 1999 Jaguar recruiting class ranked in the Top 10 nationally. 

Conner spent the 1997-98 season at the University of Houston as the recruiting coordinator and assistant coach on the Cougars staff.   Before taking the position at the University of Houston, Conner was the head men’s basketball and golf coach at his alma mater Belhaven College.  During his stint as head coach of the Blazers, Conner guided Belhaven to the GCAC Tournament and a solid post-season finish.

The Lakeland, Fla., native got his first collegiate coaching opportunity as a graduate assistant for the Statesmen from 1987-90.  During that time Conner was able to learn the ins and outs of on-the-floor coaching and the high-stakes game of recruiting.

Conner would use his time at DSU to gain a spot on current Lady Statesmen head coach Sandra Rushing’s University of Texas-El Paso staff.  He would serve as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for the Lady Miners from 1990-93.

A 1987 Belhaven College graduate with a bachelor’s degree in History and Political Science, Conner received a master’s degree in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation from Delta State University in 1989. 

Conner is married to the former Lauren Wilson of Jacksonville, Florida.  Lauren is a teacher at Presbyterian Day School.  He is the son of Rev. Jerry and Norma Conner of Lakeland, Florida.

 

May 11, 2006

DELTA STATE ATHLETICS SET TO INTRODUCE NEW BASKETBALL COACH  

CLEVELAND – Dr. Brad Teague, Delta State University Director of Athletics, announced Friday that DSU will hold a press conference on May 15 at 2 p.m. to introduce the next head men’s basketball coach at Delta State University. The press conference will be held on the second floor of the Chadwick-Dickson Athletic Field House.

“We are excited about the future of Statesmen basketball and I look forward to seeing you on Monday,” said Teague. “We have an exceptional pool of candidates and I know our next coach will be the right person for the job.”Teague added, “Our search committee has worked tirelessly to identify the top candidate and we greatly appreciate their efforts.”

Members of the media are encouraged to attend and the press conference is open to the public. Individual interviews with the new coach will be conducted following the press conference and members of the search committee will also be on hand. For directions to Chadwick-Dickson Athletic Field House or for more information, please contact Matt Jones at (662) 846-4284 or via e-mail at mjones@deltastate.edu.

April 7, 2006

AFTER 20 YEARS AND 400 WINS, STEVE RIVES RETIRES COACHING WHISTLE  

CLEVELAND – For over 20 years, Delta State University head coach Steve Riveshas directed one of the most successful men’s collegiate basketball programs in the country and on Friday, the veteran of over 400-career wins retired from the game that has treated him so very well.

“After 34 years a coach I felt it was time to move on,” Rives offered.  “This was not a quick decision and after laboring over it (retirement) for over a year, I just felt it was time.”

“The Cleveland community and Delta State University have meant so much to me and my family and I will forever be grateful for the support you have shown us over the years,” he added.

Dr. Brad Teague, Director of Athletics at Delta State, echoed Rives’ sentiments.  “Steve Rives has been an invaluable asset to this University for many years and his successes on the court and off have helped build the tradition that DSU Athletics boasts today. We hate to see Steve go, but we wish him, Sue and their family all the best.”

Rives, 58, became the 13 th men’s basketball head coach in Delta State history just prior to the start of the1986-87 season and from that point forward continued to build one of the richest basketball traditions in Mississippi. 

“I am very proud of the tradition we have built here at Delta State, but I think I am most proud of the way we went about it,” said Rives.  “I tried to run this program with class and fairness and I believe that’s one of the things that has allowed us to keep this run going for so long.” 

“We have been lucky to have quality young men come through this program over the years and I believe that each one has given something back to this University and the game,” he continued.

The Jackson native made his final season one of the most unforgettable in Statesmen basketball history.  The Statesmen finished the year with a school-record 30 wins with just two losses.  Rives claimed his 400 th career win, while Delta State claimed the Gulf South Conference Championship with a 71-67 victory over the University of Montevallo on March 5.  The Statesmen would make a run at the NCAA title before falling in the NCAA Region semifinals to Arkansas Monticello, 83-68.

During his 20 seasons at the helm of the Statesmen program, Rives amassed a 386-188 (.672) record, while his overall career record is 401-201 (.667). He guided the Statesmen to four Gulf South Conference titles in 2005-06, 1997-98, 1996-97 and 1992-93; two NCAA South Region titles in 1986-87 and 1997-1998; and nine NCAA DII Tournament appearances in 1986-87, 1992-93, 1995-96, 1996-97, 1997-98, 1999-2000, and 2001-02, 2002-03 and 2005-06. In those nine NCAA tournaments, the Statesmen earned their way to the NCAA Final Four in 1986-87, the Sweet 16 in 1992-93 and the Elite Eight in 1997-98.

Rives earned Gulf South Conference “Coach of the Year” accolades in 1986-87, 1992-93, 1997-98 and most recently, 2005-06.  He was named the NCAA Division II “National Coach of the Year” in 2005-06 and he was twice selected as the NCAA Division II South Region “Coach of the Year” in 1996-97 and 1997-98.

The veteran coach has directed the play of seven All-Americans, six All-Region and 31 All-Gulf South Conference performers.  In 2005-06, Rives saw Jasper Johnson become the first Statesmen to garner the prestigious Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame/CellularSouth Bailey Howell Trophy, an award given annually to the best men’s basketball player in the state.

“We have had the pleasure to coach some truly wonderful student-athletes over the years, but I hesitate to single any out because they have all meant so much to the foundation of this program,” Rives levied. 

It is the legacy he will leave to his beloved game that ranks as Rives’ proudest achievement, though, as 49 of his former players have since entered the coaching ranks.

“I have former players at every level of this coaching game,” Rives proudly boasted.  “Knowing that you had a role in shaping someone’s future is very gratifying and knowing that they will share the game of basketball to others is even better.”      

Rives, first entered the coaching profession in 1972-73 at Hanging Moss Academy, followed by a single season at McCluer Academy. He served eight years from 1974-1982 at Jackson Prep, where his 1974-75 and 1979-80 teams went undefeated.

Rives guided his prep teams to eight South 3A titles, five state 3A championships, four overall Mississippi state championships, and two overall runner-up finishes. These teams helped to earn Rives six Mississippi Private School Association Coach of the Year awards and the 1981 Mississippi High School Coach of the Year award from the MSU Babe McCarthy Tip off Club.

A 1968 Wingfield High graduate, Rives earned All-State laurels in basketball and baseball.  He received his Associate of Arts degree from Hinds Community College in 1970, where he starred on the basketball court as a starting guard for the Eagles. He would later be inducted into the Hinds Sports Hall of Fame in 1996.

From Hinds, he went to Mississippi College where he was a standout basketball player for two seasons. Rives earned his bachelor’s degree in history while at MC. He later returned to Mississippi College, earning a master’s of education degree in 1976.

Rives is married to the former Sue Culkin of Vicksburg and the couple has two daughters, Sarah and Jenni and one son, Dan. Sarah is married to Jason Otts, along with Jenni, who is married to former Statesmen baseball pitcher, J.D. Robinson. Both families reside in Jackson. Dan is an assistant baseball coach for the Hinds Community College Eagles. Steve and Sue are also the proud grandparents of three.

Rives year-by-year at DSU

1986-87.................. 24-9
1987-88.................. 13-14
1988-89.................. 12-15
1989-90.................. 11-16
1990-91.................. 20-8
1991-92.................. 22-6
1992-93.................. 22-8
1993-94.................. 13-11
1994-95.................. 18-9
1995-96.................. 18-11
1996-97.................. 23-7
1997-98.................. 27-4
1998-99.................. 22-7
1999-00.................. 21-8
2000-01................. 19-10
2001-02................. 22-7
2002-03................. 22-8
2003-04................. 10-17
2004-05................. 19-11
2005-06................. 30-2

Overall Record at DSU.................. 386-188
DSU Winning Percentage...............(.672)
Overall Record.............................. 401-201
Overall Winning Percentage..........(.667)

March 27, 2006

DELTA STATE'S JOHNSON NAMED HOWELL AWARD WINNER

JACKSON - Jasper Johnson transferred his way to statewide prominence Monday night March 27, 2006 when he was named the recipient of the media-selected 2006 Cellular South Howell Trophy , which is awarded annually to Mississippi's top men's college basketball player.

Johnson transferred to Division II Delta State University where he averaged more than 20 points and eight rebounds a game, guiding the 30-2 Statesmen to the best record in school history and earning national Division II Player of the Year honors in the process.

The other two finalists were Trey Johnson from Jackson State University who was the number eight scorer in major college basketball last season (23.4 ppg) and Mississippi State's Charles Rhodes who was a second team All-SEC selection by both league coaches and media.

51 media voters representing radio, television and print outlets throughout Mississippi determine the finalists and eventual recipient of the award which is part of the Cellular South Outstanding Player Awards series.

The honor is named after Bailey Howell , a two-time All-American at Mississippi State and a six-time all-pro selection in the NBA who played on championship teams with the Boston Celtics.

The presentation was televised live statewide by Mississippi Public Broadcasting.

- Courtesy Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame Release

March 22, 2006

DELTA STATE ’S RIVES NAMED BASKETBALL TIMES NATIONAL COACH OF THE YEAR

CLEVELAND – After guiding the Statesmen to the Gulf South Conference title and the NCAA South Regional semifinals, Delta State University head men’s basketball coach Steve Rives was named the Basketball Times National Coach of the Year.

Rives directed the 2005-06 edition of the Statesmen to the best overall record in school-history at 30-2. Along the way, the Statesmen finished the GSC regular season undefeated (16-0) and claimed an astounding 26-straight victories. Under his tutelage, senior center Jasper Johnson was a unanimous selection for NCAA DII National Player of the Year, All-America and he was named a CellularSouth Bailey Howell Award finalist.

On March 5, Rives claimed his 400 th career win in style, as the Statesmen defeated the University of Montevallo, 71-67, to claim the Gulf South Conference title. Rives has compiled a 401-200 record in his career. He has directed four teams to GSC titles and nine times his teams have appeared in the NCAA Tournament.

Rives is a two-time NCAA South region Coach of the Year and a four-time GSC Coach of the Year. The Basketball Times honor is his first national award.

 

March 21, 2006

DELTA STATE ’S JASPER JOHNSON NAMED NATIONAL PLAYER OF THE YEAR

CLEVELAND – Delta State University senior center Jasper Johnson was named the NCAA Division II National Player of the Year by Daktronics and Basketball Times on Tuesday by a vote of the nation’s media and coaches.

The Hollandale native is the first Statesmen to garner the nation’s top individual basketball honor.

“I am truly humbled and honored by this (awards) today,” said Johnson. “This year has been an amazing ride and my ecision to come to Delta State has been one of the best in my life.” Johnson added, “Coach Rives and the guys (teammates) welcomed me from day one and none of this would have been possible without their help!”

Delta State University head coach Steve Rives echoed Johnson’s sentiments. “Jasper, from day one, bought into our system and his desire to win was a major factor in our success this year.” Rives added, “This team was special and Jasper helped make it that way, but like he said, there were 12 other guys out there night in and night out that helped ake this happen.” Rives concluded, “Jasper has a way of making everyone around him better and he certainly did that this year. We believe he is deserving of these awards and are proud of his accomplishments.”

Jasper Johnson led the Statesmen to one of the greatest seasons in school history after playing his first three seasons at the University of Southern Mississippi.

The 6’7”, 256 lb. senior proved a load for the Gulf South Conference to handle, averaging 20.6 ppg. and 8.2 rpg. In addition, he shot 55.5 percent from the floor (251 of 452), made 53 of 121 three-pointers, and shot 86.8 percent from the line (105 of 121).

He also accumulated 81 assists and 76 steals. Johnson led Delta State in scoring 18 times, and was the leading rebounder on 19 occasions.

Johnson was recognized as the Gulf South Conference West Player of the Year after finishing third in scoring, sixth in rebounding, and second in both steals and free throw percentage. He was also named the Most Outstanding Player of the Gulf South Conference Tournament after guiding the Statesmen to the GSC title with a 71-67 win over Montevallo.

The 6-7 center was a unanimous First Team All-American after being listed on the Daktronics, Basketball Times and National Association of Basketball Coaches All-America teams.

Johnson is also a finalist for the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame CellularSouth Bailey Howell Award. The Howell Award is awarded annually to the state of Mississippi’s top collegiate basketball player.

Individual recognition’s aside, the soft-spoken Johnson helped the Statesmen to the best record in school history at 30-2. Along the way, the Statesmen reeled off 26-straight wins and recorded the second undefeated regular season (16-0) in Gulf South Conference history. The Statesmen claimed the program’s fifth Gulf South Conference Championship with a 71-67 win over Montevallo and advanced to the NCAA South Region semifinals before falling to Arkansas-Monticello. Delta State also finished the regular season ranked No. 1 in the NABC Top 25 Poll.

Johnson and fellow Statesmen Jeremy Richardson will conclude their collegiate careers at 7 p.m. EST on March 24 at the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass. as part of the NCAA DII All-Star Game. The game is part of the NCAA DII National Championship celebration in Springfield, Mass and will feature 20 of the top players in NCAA DII. Johnson and Richardson are the only teammates competing in the game.

For more information on the awards or the NCAA DII All-Star Game, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

March 20, 2006

DELTA STATE'S JOHNSON NAMED FINALIST FOR HOWELL AWARD

JACKSON - Two high-scoring Johnsons related only by their offensive skills join Mississippi State sophomore Charles Rhodes as the three finalists for the 2006 Cellular South Howell Trophy which is awarded annually to Mississippi’s top men’s college basketball player.

JASPER JOHNSON: Delta State University; the 6’7” senior from Hollandale, Ms led Delta State in all offensive categories en route to the school’s best record ever at 30-2, a mark that included a 26 game win streak; earned Division II All-South Region and Gulf South Conference Player of the Year honors with his 20.5 points and 8.2 rebounds per game.

TREY JOHNSON: Jackson State University; the 6’ 5” junior from Jackson, MS ranked eighth nationally in all of major college basketball, averaging more than 23 points per game; the All-SWAC selection set a new school record with 169 made free throws and he shot almost 45% from behind the three point arc with his 58 trays ranking fifth nationally.

CHARLES RHODES: Mississippi State University; the 6’8” sophomore from Jackson, MS led MSU in scoring and rebounding with almost 14 points and 7 rebounds per game; Rhodes, who was third in the league in field goal percentage at better than 56% was elected to the All-SEC second team by both the league’s coaches and the Associated Press’ reporters.

With all finalists in attendance, the 2006 Cellular South Howell Trophy will be presented Monday night March 27, 2006 at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum. For ticket information, contact the Museum at 601-982-8264 or 1-800-280-FAME (3263).

Courtesy Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame

March 15, 2006

STATESMEN DUO NAMED TO THE NCAA
DII ALL-STAR GAME

CLEVELAND – Delta State University’s Jasper Johnson and Jeremy Johnson were named to the NCAA DII All-Star Game on Wednesday as part of the NCAA Elite Eight Championship weekend in Springfield, Mass. The Statesmen duo will represent the South Region.

Jasper Johnson concluded his senior season as the South Region Player of the Year and Gulf South Conference Player of the Year. The 6-8 senior from Hollandale averaged 20.8 points and 8.4 rebounds per game this season for the Statesmen.

Johnson was also selected to the All-GSC First Team and is a candidate for the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame Bailey Howell Award. The Howell Award is given annually to the state of Mississippi’s top collegiate player.

Jeremy Richardson followed up a brilliant junior season with a stellar senior year. The 6-6 guard from Zachary, La. averaged 17.7 points and 5.2 rebounds per game for the Statesmen. Richardson was a Second Team All-South Region selection and a First Team All-GSC guard for a second year in a row.

The duo led the Statesmen to a school-record 30-2 overall record and the nation’s number one ranking. Delta State University defeated the University of Montevallo 71-67 to claim the Gulf South Conference Championship on March 5.

The NCAA DII All-Star Game is scheduled for March 24 at the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass. Game time is set for 7 p.m. EST. Out of 256 NCAA Division II teams, only 20 players were selected. Delta State University is the only school in the country with two players in the game. For more information, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.ncaasports.com.

 

March 12, 2006

MAGICAL SEASON COMES TO A CLOSE FOR STATESMEN WITH 83-68 LOSS TO WEEVILS

CLEVELAND – Coach Steve Rives and the Delta State University Statesmen (30-2) saw their magical season come to a close with an 83-68 loss to the University of Arkansas-Monticello Boll Weevils (21-10) in the semifinals of the NCAA South Region Men’s Basketball Tournament at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The loss snapped the nation’s longest win streak and ended the season for the nation’s top ranked team.

The Boll Weevils came out in the second half like team on a mission, hitting jumper after jumper. UAM connected on an astounding 72-percent (18-of-25) of their shots, while holding the Statesmen to just 41-percent (12-of-29). UAM closed the game on a 27-9 run and outscored the Statesmen 58-38 in the final 20 minutes.

With 5:45 remaining in the game and down 59-56, UAM made their move. Nate Newell canned a 25-footer to tie the game at 59-59 with 5:28 left. The Statesmen would cough up the ball and Ron McGrew’s driving lay-up would give UAM a 61-59 lead. Jasper Johnson would tie the game at 61-61 with 4:28 left in the game, but UAM would take over offensively and outscore the Statesmen 22-7 over the final four plus minutes.

UAM shot 53-percent for the game on 28-of-53 shooting, while DSU connected on 43-percent of their shots on 24-of-56 shooting. UAM out-rebounded the Statesmen 32-28. The Boll Weevils finished 10-of-22 from beyond the arc for 46-percent and 17-of-22 from the free throw line for 77-percent. The Statesmen only managed 5-of-22 from three points range for 23-percent, while connecting on 15-of-18 from the free throw line.

The Statesmen actually led 30-25 at halftime after shooting 44-percent in the opening half. UAM shot just 36-percent in the first half, but pulled the biggest one half turnaround against the Statesmen in school postseason history.

The Statesmen placed four players in double digits led by Jeremy Richardson’s 17 points. Jasper Johnson dropped in 16 points, while Victor Brown chipped in 13 points and Travis DeGroot scored 11.

J.B. Williams led all-scorers with 26 points for UAM. Nate Newell added 17 points, while Billy McDaniel and Ron McGrew scored 14 points each.

The Statesmen rack up the basketballs and clean up the locker room after the greatest season in basketball history. The Statesmen claimed the Gulf South Conference Championship en route to a school record 30 wins. The Statesmen were also ranked No. 1 in the nation for the second time in school history and for the longest period. Coach Steve Rives claimed his 400 th career win and the Statesmen claimed a perfect 16-0 record in GSC play.

UAM will face Montevallo on Tuesday night at 7 p.m. for the NCAA South Region Championship at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

 

March 11, 2006

STATESMEN ADVANCE TO REGION SEMIS WITH 76-70 WIN OVER TIGERS

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Statesmen (30-1) needed every second of the quarterfinal match-up with Stillman College to escape with a 76-70 victory over the Tigers. Delta State claimed their 26 th consecutive victory, while improving to 30-1 on the season. The Tigers fell to 20-11.

Stillman came into their first ever post-season tournament as the #8 seed, but never played that way throughout the contest. The Tigers jumped out of the gate nailing shot after shot in building a 40-29 halftime lead. Stillman shot 44-percent from the floor and 7-of-10 from the free-throw line in the opening half.

Early foul trouble for Statesmen didn’t seem to help matters either as the Tigers just couldn’t miss a shot. Forced to play a not so aggressive defense, Delta State looked helpless at times against the Tigers. Despite shooting 46-percent, the Statesmen couldn’t muster a free throw opportunity in the first half.

Delta State came out of the locker-room and immediately picked up the intensity going on a 19-11. The Statesmen cut the lead to three with 14:00 minutes remaining. Shooting an amazing 61 percent from the floor, Delta State held the Tigers to a dismal 39 percent including 3-of-10 from behind the arch.

Travis DeGroot gave the Statesmen their first lead at the 7:28 mark on a pair of made free throws. DSU would outscore Stillman 15-9 over the final seven minutes to preserve the win.

Jeremy Richardson led the Statesmen with 21 points, while Jasper Johnson picked up 13 points and grabbed four rebounds. Travis DeGroot finished with 11 points, nine assists and five rebounds. Colby Harris did yeomen’s work in the paint with nine points and 10 rebounds.

Monyea Pratt finished with a game-high 24 points and five boards.

The Statesmen will face Arkansas-Monticello Sunday at 7:30 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum in the NCAA South Region Semifinals. The winner will face the Rollins versus Montevallo winner on Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the NCAA South Region final.

 

March 9, 2006

DELTA STATE’S JOHNSON NAMED SOUTH REGION PLAYER OF THE YEAR;
RICHARDSON SELECTED TO SECOND TEAM

CLEVELAND – Delta State University senior center Jasper Johnson captured the Daktronics South Region Player of the Year award on Wednesday. The honor is his second in as many days. On Tuesday, Johnson was named the Gulf South Conference West Player of the Year.

Jeremy Richardson, a senior guard from Zachary, La., was also named to the Daktronics All-Region Second Team.

Johnson is the first DSU winner since 1998 when Twentis McGee received the honor. The senior took the Gulf South Conference and the South region by storm this season, leading the Statesmen to the GSC Championship, No. 1 Regional seed and a school-record 29 victories. The Hollandale, MS native is first in the league in three-point percentage (.464—51-110), second in steals (2.47) and free throw percentage (.862—100-116), third in scoring (21.0) and fifth in rebounding (8.4). Johnson was also named as the GSC Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player.

Richardson received Gulf South Conference West Division First Team and Wednesday the two-time All-GSC guard was named to the Daktronics South Region Second Team. Richardson is ninth in the GSC in scoring (17.7) and 10 th in three-point percentage (.403—60-149).

The Statesmen duo will now have their names placed on the Daktonics National Ballot for All-America consideration.

The top-ranked Statesmen are seeded No.1 and will begin play in the NCAA Men’s basketball South Region Tournament on Saturday at 8:30 p.m. versus Sillman College at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Tickets are on sale now! For more information, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or e-mail us at athletics@deltastate.edu.

 

March 7, 2006

JOHNSON NAMED GSC WEST PLAYER OF THE YEAR; RICHARDSON NAMED FIRST TEAM

CLEVELAND – Delta State University senior center Jasper Johnson (left) captured the Gulf South Conference West Player of the Year award on Tuesday by a vote of the league coaches. Senior guard Jeremy Richardson was also named to his second straight First Team All-GSC squad.

Johnson is the first DSU winner since 2000, sixth overall. The senior took the league by storm this season, leading the Statesmen to the GSC Championship, No. 1 Regional seed and a school-record 29 victories. The Hollandale, MS native is first in the league in three-point percentage (.464—51-110), second in steals (2.47) and free throw percentage (.862—100-116), third in scoring (21.0) and fifth in rebounding (8.4). Johnson was also named as the GSC Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player.

Richardson (left) returns from last year’s West Division First Team. Richardson is ninth in the Conference in scoring (17.7) and 10 th in three-point percentage (.403—60-149).

The top-ranked Statesmen are seeded No.1 and will begin lay in the NCAA Men’s basketball South Region Tournament on Saturday at 8:30 p.m. versus Sillman College at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Tickets are on sale now!

For more information, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or e-mail us at athletics@deltastate.edu.

 

March 7, 2006

DELTA STATE ’S RIVES CAPTURES COACH OF THE YEAR

CLEVELAND – Delta State University head men’s basketball coach Steve Rives captured his fifth Gulf South Conference West Coach of the Year award on Tuesday by a vote of the league coaches after leading the Statesmen to their fifth Gulf South Conference Championship.

The Mississippi coaching legend has guided the Statesmen to a storybook season which includes a GSC Championship, a No. 1 national ranking, the No. 1 South Region seed, a school-record 29 victories and the nation’s longest current winning streak (25). Rives also notched his 400 th career victory in the Statesmen’s 71-67 GSC Title victory last Sunday.Over his career, Rives has notched a career 400-199 record. In his 20-years, Rives has guided the Statesmen to four GSC titles and nine NCAA Tournament appearances.

The top-ranked Statesmen are seeded No.1 and will begin play in the NCAA Men’s basketball South Region Tournament on Saturday at 8:30 p.m. versus Sillman College at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Tickets are on sale now! For more information, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or e-mail us at athletics@deltastate.edu.

 

March 6, 2006

DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY TO HOST MEN’S NCAA SOUTH REGIONAL MARCH 11-14; TICKETS ON SALE NOW

CLEVELAND – The National Collegiate Athletic Association announced on Sunday that Delta State University would host the South Region Men’s Basketball Tournament starting Saturday, March 11 at Walter Sillers Coliseum. DSU earned the right to host the regional after the Statesmen’s 71-67 victory over Montevallo in the Gulf South Conference Championship on Sunday. The Statesmen (29-1) finished the year ranked No.1 in the South Region Poll and are currently the No.1 team in the nation.

“We are very excited about the opportunity to host the NCAA Men’s Basketball South Regional,” said DSU athletic director Brad Teague. “Our basketball team has had a very special year and coach Rives and the Statesmen are looking forward to this weekend.”

The eight-team, single elimination tournament will begin on Saturday at 12 p.m. with University of Alabama-Huntsville (22-7) facing Rollins College(23-7). Benedict College(20-6) will play the University of Montevallo (26-4) at 2:30 p.m., while the University of North Alabamasquares off with the University of Arkansas-Monticelloat 6:00 p.m. The Statesmen (29-1) will play the nightcap versus Stillman College (21-9) at 8:30 p.m.

The UAH-Rollins winner will play the BC-UM winner at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, while the Stillman-DSU winner plays the UAM-UNA winner at 7:30 p.m.

Monday will be a scheduled off-day for both championship teams. Tuesday’s championship game will begin at 7:00 p.m. All games will be played at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

Tickets are on sale now for the NCAA South Regional. Fans have three ways to purchase regional tickets. Tickets are available online at www.gostatesmen.com Fans can click on the “Tickets” link for more information. You may also call the DSU Athletic Ticket Office at (662) 846-4300 or come by the Athletic Department between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Fans have the option of purchasing All-Session Tournament passes or single session tickets. A complete listing of ticket prices is listed below.

NCAA South Region Tournament Ticket Packages
All-Session Adult $25
All-Session Senior Citizen/Child $20
All-Session Student $15
Single session Adult $10
Single session Senior Citizen/Child $8
Single session Student $5

For more information about the upcoming NCAA South Region Men’s Basketball Tournament, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

March 5, 2006

STATESMEN CLAIM GULF SOUTH CONFERENCE CROWN WITH 71-67 WIN OVER FALCONS; EARN NCAA AUTOMATIC BERTH

TUPELO – For an entire year the Delta State University Statesmen (29-1) have wanted a shot at redemption in the Gulf South Conference Championship. On Sunday at the BancorpSouth Center, the Statesmen grabbed that revenge with a 71-67 victory over the University of Montevallo Falcons (26-4). The Statesmen earned their fourth championship under Steve Rives and the fifth in school history. It was also the 25 th consecutive victory for the Delta State basketball program.

“What a game,” said DSU head coach Steve Rives. “Our guys never game up and when we needed a big shot someone stepped up and knocked it down.” Rives added, “I can not say enough about the performance of Travis DeGroot this week and our guys really played today.”

For Rives, the victory carried extra significance. The veteran coach recorded his 400 th career win in the title clash. Rives ran his career mark to 400-199.

Delta State and Montevallo were red hot in the first half with DSU firing 56.7 percent from the field and UM, 53.8 percent.  The Statesmen held a steady lead in the half highlighted by a 10-point edge at 1:48, but the Falcons cut the deficit to 44-38 at the break via four unanswered points.  Montevallo tied matters, 51-51, 5:16 into the second stanza, but Delta State surged ahead by seven until UM rallied for a one-point lead at 4:56.  DSU took control from there leading by five points twice.  Statesmen guard Turmaine Rice and forward Jasper Johnson each netted a game-best 16 points, while forward Jeremy Richardson added 14.  Montevallo guard Greg Brown led all players with 24 points in losing effort.

Johnson was named the Most Outstanding Player.  Teammate guard Travis DeGroot was also named to the All-Tournament Team followed by Montevallo honorees guard James Hall, guard Greg Brown and forward Marcus Kennedy.  Valdosta State forward Jon Rogers completed the team.

The Statesmen also secured an automatic berth to the NCAA Regionals and will have a good chance to host the South Regional.  All news is not bad for Montevallo which is certain to receive an at-large berth along with GSC members Alabama-Huntsville and Arkansas-Monticello.  The Regionals begin on Saturday, March 11.  The NCAA South Regional selection show is set for 9:30 pm (central) and will be televised live on DirecTV Channel 644 or Dish Network Channel 410 and shown on the NCAA website at www.ncaasports.com

 

March 4, 2006

DEGROOT’S 24 POINTS CARRY STATESMEN TO 74-72 WIN OVER CHARGERS; STATESMEN TO PLAY FOR GSC TITLE ON SUNDAY  

TUPELO – Travis DeGroot could feel something different in the air when he entered the BancorpSouth Center on Saturday. His feelings turned out to be right, as the 6-4 junior led the Statesmen with 24 points to defeat the Alabama-Huntsville Chargers 74-72 in the semifinals of the Gulf South Conference Tournament. The Statesmen (28-1) will face the winner of the Montevallo versus Arkansas-Monticello game for the GSC Championship on Sunday at 2:30 p.m.
The Statesmen struggled for much of the first half. Alabama-Huntsville forced DSU to take many off-balance and out of control shots in the early going. The Chargers, on the other hand couldn’t miss, connecting on 13-of-24 (54-percent) shots and an outstanding 9-of-16 (56-percent) from three point range. The Statesmen shot 48-percent on 13-of-27 shooting, as UAH led 39-34 at halftime.

In the second half, DSU used the transition game and sound defense to get back into the game. The Statesmen went on a 4-0 run to cut the UAH lead to 39-38 with 18:58 remaining. UAH would settle down and can a jumper to extend the lead to 41-38. DSU would not take their first lead until the 14:33 mark, as Jasper Johnson threw home a dunk to give DSU a 51-50 lead.

The lead would go back and forth between the two clubs for the remainder of the game. With 5:01 left, the Statesmen held a 68-67 lead. DSU would force a UAH turnover and Sandrell Spann would bank home the jumper to extend the lead to 70-67. Both teams traded fruitless trips down the court. With 1:37 left, UAH’s Jason Smith would tie the game on a 25-foot three pointer at 70-70 with 1:37 remaining. UAH would force a DSU turnover and Jasper Johnson would pick up his third foul as David Ivey drove the lane for the Chargers. Ivey connected on both free throws to give UAH a 72-70 lead with 1:18 to play.

The Statesmen, drawing off Friday’s thrilling comeback, drew up the same play that had given Delta State the quarterfinal victory over Valdosta State. Jasper Johnson came off a stagger pick to can a 23-foot three pointer and give the Statesmen a 73-72 lead with 1:00 remaining. UAH’s three pointer fell harmlessly off the iron with the Statesmen claiming the rebound. Turmaine Rice was fouled on the play for the Statesmen. The junior from Minden, La. connected on one of two free throws to take a 74-72 lead. UAH’s desperation heave was intercepted by Jeremy Richardson and the Statesmen sealed the deal.

Travis DeGroot finished with 24 points on 11-of-12 shooting for the Statesmen. Jasper Johnson dropped in 19 points and seven rebounds. Jeremy Richardson finished with 14 points and four boards, while Sandrell Spann closed out the game with 10 points and six rebounds.

The Statesmen finished 29-of-53 from the field for 55-percent, while UAH shot 49-percent on 22-of-45 shooting. DSU out-rebounded UAH 31-26.

The Statesmen return to the BancorpSouth Center on Sunday at 2:30 to play for the GSC Championship. The game will be broadcast on the Statesmen basketball Network. Charter Sports Southeast and Cox Cable will televise the game starting at 2:15 p.m.

 

March 3, 2006

JASPER JOHNSON’S THREE LIFTS No.1 STATESMEN TO 74-70 WIN OVER BLAZERS IN GSC QUARTERFINALS

TUPELO – Friday afternoon the legend of Jasper Johnson grew a little more as the 6-8 center from Hollandale canned a three-pointer with 14.1 seconds remaining to send the No.1 Statesmen (27-1) past the Valdosta State Blazers (17-10) 70-69 in the quarterfinals of the Gulf South Conference Tournament. Delta State’s defense would hold the Blazers on their final possession and a late foul allowed the Statesmen to extend the final margin to 74-70. The win extended the nation’s longest NCAA DII win streak to 23 games.

“We are happy to be on this podium right now,” said DSU head coach Steve Rives. “Rarely does a team shoot 50-percent and lose a game, but we played tough and took advantage of the opportunities the Blazers gave us.”

In the second half, Delta State and Valdosta State traded the lead seven times behind solid defensive performances. The final five minutes of the game saw tremendous defense on both sides of the floor. In fact, the Statesmen held the Blazers scoreless for the final 3:37 in regulation. The Statesmen bench outscored the Blazer bench 18-0 and finished with an amazing 22 second chance points.

The Statesmen began their comeback at the 4:01 mark of the second half with VSU leading 68-64. Turmaine Rice missed a deep three for the Statesmen, but Sandrell Spann was there to gather the rebound. Spann’s shot was good and the 6-6 senior was fouled on the play. Spann connected on the free throw to cut it to 67-68 with 3:54 remaining. Valdosta’s J.T. Thomas was fouled in the act with 3:37 left. He would hit both free throws to give the Blazers a 70-67. On the next possession, Jasper Johnson was fouled down low. He would knockdown both shots to make it 69-70 with 3:25 left.

For the next three minutes neither team could produce any offense to set the stage for the final minute of action. With 51-seconds on the clock, VSU had a chance to take the lead, but John Rogers would dribble the ball off his foot to give the Statesmen a chance with 34-seconds left. The final possession proved fruitful with Johnson’s net-draining three sending the crowd into a frenzy! DSU would rebounds the final VSU miss and Jasper Johnson would sink his two free throws to make the final 74-70.

The game featured two of the top offensive units in the league, but only one showed up. The Blazers connected on shot after shot, while the Statesmen never established an offensive rhythm. VSU finished the game 22-of-44 (50-percent) from the floor, 9-of-16 (67-percent) from three point range and 17-of-20 (85-percent) from the free throw line. All numbers good enough to win most games, but Friday the 22 turnovers and 18 offensive rebounds by the Statesmen proved to be their doom.

The Statesmen offense connected on an anemic 25-of-70 (36-percent) shots from the floor, while hitting on 6-of-27 from three point range. DSU took advantage of the free throw line making 18-of-23 (78-percent) from the free throw line. Defensively, Delta State forced 22 turnovers which led to 21 points. The Statesmen also grabbed 18 offensive rebounds and dished out a game-high 18 assists.

The first half was rather uncomfortable for Statesmen basketball fans, as Delta State connected on just two of their first 17 shots. However, DSU would regain some offense with nine minutes left and led at half-time 40-36.

Jasper Johnson led all scorers with 27 points. He also grabbed five rebounds and dished out two assists. Victor Brown added 10 points and four boards, while Travis DeGroot turned in his best game of the year. DeGroot, a 6-4 senior from Montclair, N.J., scored 10 points, grabbed three rebounds and dished out nine assists in the win. Turmaine Rice and Jeremy Richardson dropped in seven points each.

Valdosta State placed five players in double figures led by John Rogers 17 points and seven rebounds.

The Statesmen will face the winner of the Central Arkansas versus Alabama-Huntsville game on Saturday, March 4 at 5:30 p.m. in the GSC semifinals at the BancorpSouth Center. For more information on the GSC Tournament, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or e-mail us at athletics@deltastate.edu.

 

February 28, 2006

DELTA STATE ROCKETS TO THE TOP OF THE
NABC TOP 25

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Statesmen (26-1, 16-0 GSC) claimed the nation’s top spot in the latest National Association of Basketball Coach Top 25 Poll. The Statesmen received all eight first place votes for 200 poll points. Delta State had previously held the top spot in the NABC Poll on January 16, 1992.

The Statesmen enter the Gulf South Conference Tournament on the nation’s longest winning-streak, 22-games. Delta State closed the regular season with a 78-61 thrashing of the Arkansas Tech University Wonder Boys on Saturday, Feb. 25 in Russellville, Ark.

Delta State finished the GSC schedule with a perfect 16-0 record. Along the way the Statesmen joined Jacksonville State University as the only teams to accomplish the feat. DSU did become the first team to go undefeated since the conference split into East and West divisions.

The Statesmen will put their national ranking on the line on Friday, March 3 at the Gulf South Conference Tournament in Tupelo. Delta State will face the winner of the Christian Brothers vs. Valdosta State game on Friday. Game time is set for 12:30 p.m. at the BancorpSouth Center in Tupelo. For more information on the tournament, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or e-mail us at athletics@deltastate.edu.

 

February 27, 2006

JASPER JOHNSON CAPTURES THIRD GSC
PLAYER OF THE WEEK AWARD   

CLEVELAND – Delta State University senior center Jasper Johnson was awarded the Gulf South Conference West Division Player of the Week Award for the period ending February 5.  Johnson captures his third award of the season since posting back-to-back laurels early this season. He led No. 2 DSU to a 2-0 week which preserved the Statesmen’s perfect 16-0 Conference mark.

Johnson averaged 23.5 points and 7.5 points while shooting 53.1 percent (17-for-32) from the floor and 62.5 percent (5-for-8) from beyond the arc.

Johnson tipped-off the week leading all players with 27 and eight rebounds in a 73-67 home triumph over Ouachita Baptist. He capped the week with a team-high 20 points and seven boards in a 78-61 victory at Arkansas Tech.

February 25, 2006

#2 STATESMEN DOWN WONDER BOYS 78-61; FINISH GSC SCHEDULE 16-0

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Jasper Johnson’s 20 points and Jeremy Richardson dropped in 14 points to lead the second-ranked Delta State University Statesmen (26-1, 16-0) to a 78-61 thrashing of the Arkansas Tech University Wonder Boys (11-16, 2-14 GSC). The victory gave the Statesmen a perfect finish in Gulf South Conference play.  Delta State becomes the first GSC squad to go undefeated in divisional play and only the second team to go undefeated in league history.  Jacksonville State accomplished the feat in 1984-85 in route to the NCAA and GSC championships.

Jasper Johnson connected on 8-of-15 shots to finish with 20 points and seven rebounds. Jeremy Richardson closed the game with 14 points and seven boards, while Victor Brown added 12 points and seven boards. Turmaine Rice finished with 11 points. Travis DeGroot played well with seven points, six rebounds and eight assists. 

The Statesmen finished the game 31-of-62 for 50-percent, while ATU closed 22-of-65 for 34-percent. The Statesmen out-rebounded ATU 45-36 along the way. The Statesmen and Wonder Boys struggled to find offensive continuity in the first half. Both teams struggled from the field, as DSU took a 36-29 lead into the locker room at halftime. The Statesmen managed 38-percent in the first half on 14-of-37 shooting from the field. The Wonder Boys were not any better as ATU finished 11-of-34 from the floor for 32-percent. DSU out-rebounded ATU 27-21 in the first half. 

ATU was led by Denarryl Rice’s 22 points and four rebounds. 

The Delta State University Statesmen will travel to Tupelo on Wednesday, March 1 in preparation for the upcoming Gulf South Conference Tournament. Delta State will face the winner of the East #4 seed vs. West #5 seed play-in game on Friday, march 3 at 12:30 p.m. at the BancorpSouth Center. 

The Statesmen received a first round bye as a result of their GSC West Division title. For more information on the GSC Tournament, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or e-mail us at athletics@deltastate.edu.

CLEVELAND – As time ticked away on the last home game of the season, seniors Jeremy Richardson and Jasper Johnson stepped up once again and came through in the clutch, as the second-ranked Delta State University Statesmen slammed the door on the Ouachita Baptist University Tigers 73-67 Thursday night at Walter Sillers Coliseum. With the victory the Statesmen keep the win streak alive at 21, while moving to 25-1 overall and 15-0 in Gulf South Conference action. The Tigers fall to 12-16 and 4-11 in GSC play.

With a little over two minutes remaining in the second half, the Statesmen erased a seven point deficit by going on a 9-0 run to take a two point lead 63-61. From that point forward, the Statesmen cruised to the win.

The Statesmen struggled in the early going in front of a packed crowd, luck just wasn’t on their side, as they trailed by as many as 12 points in the first half. The Tigers came out quick shooting 51 percent from the floor. OBU was a tremendous 6-of-12 from three-point land. Led by Jaranimo Marks 13 points, the Tigers refused to give up any offensive momentum.

The Statesmen would not let the Tigers out-play them, especially on their home court. Led by Jasper Johnson’s 14 points, Delta State shot 51 percent from the field, including 10-of-11 from the free-throw line. With less than 25 seconds remaining, the Statesmen got their first lead of the game with a Johnson three-pointer from the corner for a 38-36 advantage. Justin Neely capped off the run with a smooth lay-up as time expired, going into the locker-room up 40-36.

The Statesmen started the second half much like the first, trailing early on, as the Tigers again just couldn’t miss a shot shooting 46 percent from the field. OBU struggled from the outside shooting 4-of-10.

Delta State wouldn’t back down, shooting 52 percent and forcing the Tigers to make fouls they really didn’t need. Jasper Johnson stepped up with a game-high 27 points along with 8 rebounds. Jeremy Richardson chipped in with 18 points and 5 boards.

Lucky Butler stepped up for the Tigers knocking down a team-high 23 points.

The Delta State University Statesmen will travel to Russellville, Ark. to face Arkansas Tech University on Saturday, February 22. Game time is set for 8 p.m. at Tucker Coliseum. The Lady Statesmen will then prepare for the upcoming Gulf South Conference Tournament March 1-5 at the BancorpSouth Center in Tupelo. For more information on the schedule or the GSC Tournament, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or e-mail us at athletics@deltastate.edu.

 

February 22, 2006

STATESMEN CLIMB IN NATIONAL AND REGIONAL POLLS

CLEVELAND – Steve Rives and the Delta State University Statesmen basketball team climbed two spots to No.2 in the latest National Association of Basketball Coaches Top 25 Poll released on Wednesday, Feb. 22. The Statesmen are currently 24-1 overall and 14-0 in the GSC. Delta State is also riding the nation’s longest winning-streak at 20 games.

The No. 2 national ranking is the highest for the Statesmen since the 1992 season. On Jan. 6, 1992, the Statesmen held the No. 1 ranking in the NABC poll. This week the Statesmen are second behind Fort Hays (KS) State. Fort Hays received 200 poll points to Delta State’s 192.

The biggest news of the week came in the NCAA South Region Poll where the Statesmen jumped over Montevallo for the top spot in the poll on Wednesday. The Falcons fell to No. 2. The top eight teams in each region advance to the NCAA Tournament. The top ranked team in each region serves as host for the event. Delta State had spent the previous two weeks at No. 2. There are two polling cycles remaining before the NCAA Tournament field will be announced. The next poll is scheduled to be released on Wednesday, March 1.

The Statesmen will put the win streak and rankings on the line Thursday, Feb. 23 versus Ouachita Baptist University. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum. It will also be “Senior Night.” Coach ives will honor his seven seniors during a ceremony before the start of the contest. For more information, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

February 20, 2006

FOURTH-RANKED STATESMEN CLAIM 81-76 VICTORY OVER BUCCANEERS  

MEMPHIS , Tenn. – After playing the first 31 minutes from behind, the Delta State University Statesmen were able to force overtime and eventually claim an 81-76 victory over the Christian Brothers University Buccaneers at Canale Arena on Monday. The Statesmen extend their win streak to 20 games and move to 24-1 overall and 14-0 in Gulf South Conference. The Bucs fell to 13-12 overall and 7-7 in GSC play.

The Statesmen forced overtime by outscoring the Buccaneers 12-9 over the final two minutes. In overtime, the Statesmen dominated play outscoring CBU 16-11.

Turmaine Rice paced the Statesmen with 27 points. The junior from Minden was 9-of-13 from the floor and 4-of-5 from three point range. Jasper Johnson added 17 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Sandrell Spann finished with 10 points and four rebounds.

Sam Bradley paced CBU with 27 points, while Kevin Weybright added 24 points and 11 rebounds.

The Statesmen finished the game 31-of-60 (52-percent) from the floor, while CBU shot 47-percent on 27-of-58 shooting. CBU out-rebounded DSU 33-30, but DSU was able to force 18 CBU turnovers.

The Statesmen will return to Walter Sillers Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 23 versus Ouachita Baptist University. Game time is set 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now! For more information on the game or to purchase tickets, please call the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

 

February 16. 2006

#4 STATESMEN DOWN BEARS 74-69

CLEVELAND – As the sweat continued to drip from the face of Central Arkansas head coach Rand Chappell, all he could do was watch from the sidelines in agony as the Statesmen came back to win 74-69 at a packed Walter Sillers Coliseum. With the win, the Statesmen climb to 23-1 overall and 13-0 in GSC play, while claiming the Gulf South Conference West Division Championship. UCA falls to 16-8 and 9-5 in GSC action.

With 7:32 reaming in the game, the Statesmen took their first lead of the game, and never looked back. With less than 30 seconds remaining, Victor Brown sealed the deal with a slam dunk that rocked the rim and left the fans screaming in a frenzy.

The Statesmen got off to their worst start of the season, despite shooting 56 percent from the floor. The Bears got off to a quick start outscoring the Statesmen 8-2 four minutes into the game. UCA had the advantage under the glass, out-rebounding the Statesmen 14-11.

Despite the slow start, Delta State stayed in the game. Jeremy Richardson and Trumaine Rice paced the Statesmen with six points apiece at the break. The Bears shot 58 percent from the floor, to take the lead in the locker room, 42-31.

The Statesmen came out of the locker room with a completely different game plan, shooting 17-of-30 from the floor, while holding the Bears to just 32 percent. Jasper Johnson paced the Statesmen again with his 10 th double-double of the season with a 15 point 10 rebound effort. Jeremy Richardson finished with 14 points, Victor Brown chipped in with 12 and Trumaine Rice rounded out the scoring with 11.

The Statesmen return to action on Monday, Feb. 20 at Christian Brothers University in Memphis, Tenn. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at Canale Arena. The Statesmen will return to Walter Sillers Coliseum for the final home game of the regular season on Feb. 23 versus Ouachita Baptist University. For more information, please call the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

February 15, 2006

STATESMEN REMAIN SECOND IN NCAA SOUTH REGION

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Statesmen (22-1, 12-0 GSC) remained second in the latest NCAA South Region Poll released Wednesday, Feb. 15. The Statesmen are coming off a 2-0 week with wins over Arkansas-Monticello (63-60) and Southern Arkansas (67-63).

Delta State is one of five Gulf South Conference schools in this week’s rankings. Montevallo remained in the top spot with Alabama-Huntsville third, Arkansas-Monticello fifth and West Georgia ninth. The top eight teams from each region advance to the NCAA Tournament.

The Statesmen have won 18 consecutive games and will look to extend that streak versus Central Arkansas on Thursday, Feb. 16. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum. For more information on the NCAA South Region Poll, please log on to www.ncaasports.com.

February 15, 2006

STATESMEN MOVE TO FOURTH IN LATEST NABC POLL

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Statesmen (22-1, 12-0 GSC) climbed five spots to No. 4 in the latest National Association of Basketball Coaches Top 25 Poll. The Statesmen had spent the past two weeks at No. 9. The No. 4 national ranking is the highest for the Statesmen since Jan. 6, 1992 when Delta State occupied the top spot in the NABC Poll.

Delta State is one of three Gulf South Conference schools in this week’s rankings. Montevallo dropped three spots to ninth, while Alabama-Huntsville plummeted to twenty-third. UAH was ranked fourteenth last week.

The Statesmen have won 18 consecutive games and will look to extend that streak versus Central Arkansas on Thursday, Feb. 16. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The night will feature “Green out the Coliseum Night” and a “Coaches versus Cancer” celebration. Tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please call the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

February 13, 2006

NICKERSON’S 10-SECOND HALF POINT CARRY STATESMEN TO 67-63 WIN AT SAU

MAGNOLIA, Ark. – The ninth-ranked Delta State University Statesmen used the 10-second half point of Karl Nickerson to claim a 67-63 come-from-behind win over the Southern Arkansas University Muleriders. The Statesmen improve to 22-1 overall and 12-0 in Gulf South Conference play. The Muleriders fall to 6-18 overall and 3-10 in the GSC. DSU also clinched its second-straight Gulf South Conference West Division title with the win.

After trailing 10 at the half, the Statesmen opened the second half with a 12-0 run to take a 40-38 lead with 15:51 remaining in the second half. The two teams would battle over the remaining period for a closer than expected four-point Statesmen win.

DSU shot 48-percent for the game, while holding SAU to 40-percent. DSU also out-rebounded SAU 34-33. The Statesmen also outscored the Muleriders 26-14 in the paint.

Turmaine Rice led the Statesmen with 14 points, while Jasper Johnson dropped in 13. No points tonight were bigger than Karl Nickerson’s. Nickerson finished with 10-points, all coming in the second half. Victor Brown added 10 points and eight rebounds in the win.

Kenny Langhorne led SAU and all-scorers with 18 points.

The first half belonged to the Muleriders, as they carried a 38-28 halftime lead into the Watson Athletic Center locker rooms. SAU shot 43-percent in the opening half on 13-of-30 shooting, but connected on 35-percent (6-of-17) of their three-point attempts. SAU also out-rebounded the Statesmen 20-18 in the first half and the Muleriders were able to force 12 Statesmen turnovers. SAU converted those turnovers into 15 points. SAU’s Kenny Langhorn led all scorers with 13 points in the first half. DSU was led by Turmaine Rice’s eight points.

The Statesmen return to action on Thursday, Feb. 16 versus the University of Central Arkansas Bears. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The night will feature “Green out the Coliseum Night” and a “Coaches versus Cancer” celebration. Tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please call the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

February 9, 2006

NINTH-RANKED STATESMEN ESCAPE WITH 63-60 WIN OVER UAM; DSU CLAIMS 17 TH STRAIGHT WIN

MONTICELLO , Ark. – The ninth-ranked Delta State University Statesmen escaped the Steelman Field House Thursday, Feb. 9 with a 63-60 victory over the University of Arkansas-Monticello Boll Weevils. The win extended the Delta State win streak to 17 games. The Statesmen improved to 21-1 overall and 11-0 in Gulf South Conference play. The Boll Weevils dropped to 15-8 overall and 8-4 in the GSC.

Leading 63-60 with 19-seconds remaining, Delta State successfully defended the three point attempt by Bill McDaniel to preserve the Statesmen victory. DSU would rebound the miss and run out the clock for the win.

Jeremy Richardson and Jasper Johnson combined for 40 points and nine rebounds to lead the Statesmen to the win. The Statesmen shot 50-percent from the floor on 25-of-50 shooting on the night. DSU was a miserable 5-of-14 from the free throw line, but managed to out-rebounded UAM 30-29.

Billy McDaniel led UAM with 17 points and 11 rebounds.

The Statesmen will return to action on Monday, Feb. 13 at Magnolia, Ark. versus the Southern Arkansas University Muleriders. Game time is set for 8 p.m. at the W.T. Watson Athletic Center.

 

February 8, 2006

STATESMEN CLIMB TO NO.2 IN NCAA
SOUTH REGION RANKINGS

CLEVELAND – The ninth-ranked Delta State University Statesmen (20-1, 10-0 GSC) basketball team climbed one spot to No. 2 in the latest NCAA South Region Poll released Wednesday, Feb. 8. The Statesmen have spent the last three weeks third in the poll. The Statesmen are in the midst of a 16 game winning streak and expect to continue to climb in the rankings.

The University of Montevallo remained No. 1 this week with DSU at No. 2. The University of Alabama-Huntsville, University of Arkansas-Monticello, Benedict College and Lynn University rounded out the top five. Rollins College, Nova Southeastern University, the University of West Georgia and the University of Tampa rounded out the top 10. The top six teams in each region automatically advance to the NCAA Tournament at the conclusion of the regular season.

The Statesmen will put their national and regional ranking back on the line Thursday, Feb. 9 at the University of Arkansas-Monticello. Game time is set for 7 p.m. at the Steelman Field House.

 

February 4, 2006

NINTH-RANKED STATESMEN CLAIM 16 TH IN A ROW WITH 90-84 WIN OVER CENTRAL STATE

WILBURFORCE, Ohio – The ninth-ranked Delta State University Statesmen (20-1, 10-0 GSC) claimed their 16 th win in a row with a 90-84 victory over Central State University (9-10) at CSU Arena in Wilburforce. The Statesmen improved to 20-1 on the season, while Central State fell to 9-10.

The Statesmen shot 50-percent from the floor on 31-of-62 shooting, while Central State finished with 49-percent on 32-of-65 shooting. The Statesmen out-rebounded CSU 37-30 and were able to force 13 turnovers.

The Statesmen held a 35-27 lead at half-time and were able to edge CSU in the second half behind the strong play of Jeremy Richardson.

Jeremy Richardson scored a career-high 34 points to lead the Statesmen to the win. Jasper Johnson added 20 points and 11 rebounds for his ninth double-double of the season. Sandrell Spann and Turmaine Rice chipped in 11 points each.

William Gaines led Central State with 32 points.

The Statesmen return to action on Thursday, Feb. 9 at the University of Arkansas-Monticello in Monticello, Ark. Game time is set for 7 p.m. at the Steelman Field House. For more information, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

February 2, 2006

STATESMEN CLAIM 15 TH IN A ROW WITH A 90-78 WIN OVER BISONS

CLEVELAND- The 9 th ranked Delta State University Statesmen find the ways to keep on winning, night after night and Thursday was no different. DSU cruised to their 15 th straight victory with a 90-78 win over the visiting Harding University Bison. With the win, the Statesmen move to 19-1 overall and a perfect 10-0 in the Gulf South Conference, while the Bisons fell to 11-8 overall and 3-6 in GSC play.

The Statesmen were caught off guard in the early going of the match-up, not getting their first lead of the contest until 12:21 of the half. Harding kept the pressure on, shooting 11-of-27 from the floor, but Harding was able to manage just two three-pointers.

Delta State’s Jeremy Richardson got the offensive ball rolling, with a steal at mid-court, followed by an amazing reverse slam dunk to get the Sillers crowd on their feet. DSU shot 53 percent from the floor in the opening half and were able to connect on a stellar 11-of-13 from the free-throw line. Richardson knocked down 11 points while Jasper Johnson had 10 as the Statesmen went in with a 46-32 lead at the break.

The Statesmen led by as many as 20 points five minutes into the second half of play. The defense stepped up, forcing the Bison to shoot from the outside. As the game progressed, DSU had a commanding 72-45 lead mid-way through the half. The Bisons just couldn’t catch a break from the free-throw line, shooting 2-of-8 and 22 percent for the half.

Harding gave the Statesmen a little scare with five minutes left to play, forcing a number of turnovers and converting those into easy lay-ups. Harding played a better second half, shooting 52 percent from the floor.

Jasper Johnson paced the Statesmen with 23 points. The 6-8 senior center also grabbed eight rebounds in the win. Jeremy Richardson also contributed 21 points with five rebounds. Victor Brown recorded his third double-double of the season with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Justin Neely scored nine points off the bench. Travis DeGroot dished out a game-high five assists.

Alassane Savadogo led the Bisons with 16 points and five rebounds. Lonnie Smith added 15 points for Harding.

The Statesmen will return to action Saturday at Central State University in Cincinnati, Ohio. Game time is set for 4:00 p.m.

 

February 1, 2006

STATESMEN SLIDE INTO NABC TOP-10

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Statesmen basketball team climbed into the nation’s top-10 this week in the National Basketball Coaches Association Top-25 at No. 9. The Statesmen moved up two spots from last week’s No. 11 ranking.

Delta State enters the week 18-1 overall and 9-0 in Gulf South Conference play. The Statesmen are also in the midst of a school-record 14-game winning streak. Coach Steve Rives and his squad have also tied the school record for the best start to a season at 18-1. In 1997-98, Rives directed the Statesmen to an 18-1 start. That squad eventually advanced to the NCAA Elite Eight.

The Statesmen will put the records back on the line on Thursday, Feb. 2 versus the Harding University Bisons. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please call the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

January 30, 2006

STATESMEN ESCAPE DUKE WELLS WITH 67-63 WIN OVER REDDIES

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – The 11 th-ranked Delta State University Statesmen escaped the Duke Wells Center with a 67-63 over the Henderson State University Reddies. The win extended the Statesmen win streak to 13 games. Delta State improved to 18-1 overall and 9-0 in Gulf South Conference play, while Henderson State dropped to 9-8 overall and 5-4 in the GSC.

Jeremy Richardson paced the Statesmen with 19 points, while Jasper Johnson finished with 18 points and eight rebounds. Travis DeGroot played a tremendous game with 12 points, three rebounds and a game-high five assists. Sandrell Spann, Victor Brown and Turmaine Rice all finished with six points each.

Donte Norton paced the Reddies with 17 points.

The Statesmen finished the game 22-of-48 for 46-percent, while the Reddies were 24-of-60 from the floor for 40-percent. The Reddies out-rebounded the Statesmen 40-30 and were able to knockdown 5-of-10 three pointers to keep the game close throughout.

Delta State held a slim 30-26 lead at half-time.

The Statesmen will return to action on Thursday, Feb. 2 versus Harding University. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please call the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

January 28, 2006

THREE STATESMEN IN DOUBLE FIGURES AS STATESMEN SMOTHER WONDER BOYS 84-59

CLEVELAND – Three Statesmen scored in double-figures, as the 11 th-ranked Delta State University Statesmen smothered the Arkansas Tech University Wonder Boys 84-59 at Walter Sillers Coliseum Saturday. The Statesmen moved to 17-1 overall and 8-0 in the Gulf South Conference, while the Wonder Boys fell to 10-9 overall and 1-7 in the GSC.

The trio of Jasper Johnson, Victor Brown and Jeremy Richardson combined for 62 points and 26 rebounds for the Statesmen on the night. Jasper Johnson led all scorers with 23 points and nine rebounds. The 6-foot-8 senior from Hollandale finished 8-of-15 from the floor. Jeremy Richardson dropped in 21 points on 9-of-17 shooting with eight rebounds and four assists. Victor Brown finished with 18 points and nine rebounds.

The Statesmen finished the game 53-percent (30-of-57) from the floor and 18-of-24 from the free throw line. The Wonder Boys were 23-of-57 from the floor for 40-percent. DSU also out-rebounded ATU 41-28.

The Wonder Boys actually led the game at halftime 40-38, but a 38-10 run to start the second half pushed the game out of reach.

Sandrell Spann added eight points and five rebounds in the win, while Turmaine Rice and Josh Williams chipped in five points each. Travis DeGroot finished with four points and a game-high five assists.

Denarryl Rice and Rone Smith finished with 14 points each to lead the Wonder Boys.

The Statesmen return to the court on Monday, Jan. 30 at Henderson State University. The Statesmen and Reddies will square off at 7:30 p.m. at the Duke Wells Center in Arkadelphia, Ark. The game will be broadcast on the Statesmen Sports Network beginning at 5:15 p.m. with the SouthGroup Insurance Pre-Game Report.

 

January 26, 2006

JOHNSON AND RICHARDSON POWER STATESMEN TO 80-60 WIN OVER TIGERS

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – Jasper Johnson and Jeremy Richardson combined for 57 points and 17 rebounds to power the 11 th-ranked Delta State University Statesmen to an 80-60 victory over the Ouachita Baptist University Tigers. The win extends the Delta State win streak to 12 games. DSU improved to 16-1 overall and 7-0 in the Gulf South Conference, while OBU fell to 10-10 and 2-5 in GSC play.

Jasper Johnson recorded his eighth double-double with a career-high 32 points and 15 rebounds. The Hollandale native was 12-of-17 from the floor and 7-of-7 from the free throw line. Jeremy Richardson scored 21 of his 25 points in the second half. The Zachary, La. native finished 10-of-15 from the field.

The Statesmen went to the locker room with a 30-26 half-time lead behind Johnson’s 15 first half points. The Statesmen committed an uncharacteristically high 15 turnovers in the first half, allowing the Tigers to remain close.

Delta State shot 52-percent in the first half on 11-of-21 shooting, while holding Ouachita Baptist to 32-percent on 8-of-25 shooting. The Statesmen out-rebounded the Tigers 20-12 and outscored the Tigers 14-8 in the paint.

The second half saw a much improved DSU offense. The Statesmen finished the game 30-of-49 from the floor for 61-percent, while holding OBU to 32-percent on 17-of-53 shooting. DSU also out-rebounded OBU 41-19.

Victor Brown contributed 13 points and seven rebounds in the win. Turmaine Rice dished out a game-high eight assists.

Lucky Butler paced the Tigers with 14 points.

The Statesmen will return to action on Saturday, Jan. 28 versus Arkansas Tech University. Game time is set for 5:30 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The dancers of the Carla Parker Dance Troupe will be performing at half time of both games. Tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please call the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

January 25, 2006

STATESMEN RANKED THIRD IN LATEST NCAA SOUTH REGION POLL

CLEVELAND- The 11th ranked Delta State University Statesmen remained third in the latest NCAA South Region Poll released Wednesday by the National Collegiate Athletic Association.  The Statesmen are currently 15-1 overall and 6-0 in Gulf South Conference play. 

The Statesmen finished last week 2-0 after a pair of Gulf South Conference victories.  Delta State claimed a 64-58 come-from-behind win at Central Arkansas on Thursday, Jan. 19 and followed that up with an 84-40 thrashing of Christian Brothers on Monday, Jan. 23.  The wins pushed the Delta State win streak to a school-record 11 games.

The NCAA South Region Poll is conducted by the National Collegiate Athletic Association and is used to determine who will participate in NCAA post-season play. For the complete poll, log on to www.ncaasports.com.

The Statesmen will put the streak on the line Thursday, Jan. 26 at Ouachita Baptist University.  Game time is set for 8 p.m. at Bill Vining Arena in Arkadelphia, Ark.   

January 23, 2006

STATESMEN THROTTLE BUCS 84-40 TO EXTEND WIN STREAK TO 11

CLEVELAND- The 14 th ranked Delta State University Statesmen pounded the Christian Brothers University Buccaneers 84-40 Monday night for their eleventh straight victory. The win moved the Statesmen to 15-1, 6-0 in Gulf South Conference play, while CBU fell to 9-7 overall and 3-3 GSC.

“This was a complete team win tonight and the defense was the key,” said DSU head coach Steve Rives. “We were able to relax a little in the second half and run our stuff to claim the win.”

The Statesmen took a 33-20 lead into the locker room at half time behind the play of Turmaine Rice. Rice had 10 points at the half. The Statesmen shot 44-percent in the first frame on 14-of-32 shooting, while holding CBU to 24-percent (6-of-25).

The second half was all green and white. The Statesmen dominated the second half outscoring the Bucs 51-20. Delta State finished 50-percent from the floor on 35-of-70 shooting. CBU connected on 13-of-48 shots from the floor for 27-percent. DSU also out-rebounded CBU 48-25.

Turmaine Rice finished with a game-high 18 points for the Statesmen. Sandrell Spann recorded his second double-double with 12 points and 11 boards. Victor Brown added 14 points and five boards, while Jeremy Richardson and Jasper Johnson contributed 10 points each.

Kevin Weybright led CBU with 13 points, while Justin Ray dropped in 12 points.

The Statesmen return to action on Thursday, Jan.26 at Ouachita Baptist University. Game time is set for 6 p.m. at Bill Vining Arena in Arkadelphia, Ark.

 

January 19, 2006

STATESMEN SURVIVE SCARE WITH 64-58 WIN OVER BEARS

CONWAY, Ark. – Down 10 points with 4:36 remaining, the Delta State University Statesmen closed the game on an 18-2 run to claim a 64-58 victory over the University of Central Arkansas Bearsat the Farris Center. The 15 th-ranked Statesmen improved to 14-1 overall on the season and 5-0 in the Gulf South Conference, while UCA dropped to 11-5, 4-2 in the GSC.

“Great performance for us tonight and defensively down the stretch we made some key plays,” said DSU head coach Steve Rives. “Any time you can get a win on the road in the GSC it’s a plus and we’ll enjoy this one for a minute.”

The Bears took a 32-29 lead into the locker room at halftime. The Bears were hot from beyond the arc, connecting on 5-of-8 three point attempts. UCA also finished 13-of-25 from the floor for 52-percent, while the Statesmen managed 46-percent on 12-of-26 shooting. Jeremy Richardson paced DSU with 13 points at the break, while Jasper Johnson added 10 points. UCA’s Darryl Jones led all scorers with 14 points at the break.

The second half was a war between the GSC squads. The 18-2 run closed a tremendous effort defensively by the Statesmen. DSU finished 25-of-51 for 49-percent, while UCA was 24-of-49 from the floor for 49-percent. DSU also out-rebounded UCA 32-28.

Jeremy Richardson paced the Statesmen with 19 points, while Jasper Johnson recorded his third-straight double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds. Victor Brown added 12 points in the winning effort. UCA was led by Darryl Jones 15 points.

The Statesmen return to action on Monday, Jan. versus the Christian Brothers University Buccaneers. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please call the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

January 19, 2006

TWO IN A ROW; DSU’S JOHNSON NAMED GSC PLAYER OF THE WEEK

CLEVELAND – Jasper Johnson, a 6-foot-8 senior center, from the 15th-ranked Delta State University Statesmen (13-1, 4-0 GSC) was named the Gulf South Conference West Division Player of the Week for the period ending Tuesday, Jan. 17. It is the second consecutive award for the Hollandale native.

Johnson captures his second consecutive accolade, leading DSU to a pair of home league victories, averaging 22.0 points, 10.5 rebounds and 3.0 steals while shooting 62.9 percent (17-for-27) from the field and 57.1 percent (4-for-7) from beyond the arc.

The senior scored 20 points, grabbed 10 rebounds and added three steals and three assists in a 73-58 home win over Arkansas-Monticello. The Hollandale, MS native did not let up, hitting for a game-high 24 points and 11 rebounds while adding three steals in a 77-62 win over Southern Arkansas.

 

January 17, 2006

STATESMEN MOVE UP ONE SPOT IN LATEST NABC COACHES POLL

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Statesmen (13-1, 4-0 GSC) climbed to No. 14 in the latest National Basketball Coaches Association Top 25 Poll released Tuesday, January 17. The Statesmen are one of three Gulf South Conference schools ranked this week. DSU received 102 poll points this week. The No. 14 ranking is the highest since the 1997-98 season.

The Statesmen went 2-0 last week with a pair of Gulf South Conference victories. The Statesmen crushed Arkansas-Monticello 73-58 on Thursday, Jan. 12 and followed that performance with a dominated 77-62 win over Southern Arkansas on Monday, Jan. 16.

The Statesmen will return to Gulf South Conference action on Thursday, Jan. 19 at the University of Central Arkansas. Game time is set for 8 p.m. at the Farris Center in Conway, Ark.

 

January 16, 2006

JOHNSON’S 24 POINTS LIFT STATESMEN TO 77-62 WIN OVER MULERIDERS

CLEVELAND – The 15 th ranked Delta State University Statesmen used Jasper Johnson’s 24 points and 11 rebounds to cruise to a 77-62 victory over the Southern Arkansas University Muleriders Monday at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The Statesmen move to 13-1 on the season and 4-0 in Gulf South Conference play. The Muleriders fall to 5-11 overall and 2-3 in the GSC.

“Much better performance in the second half by our guys tonight,” said DSU head coach Steve Rives. “Jasper had a good second half and I thought we had much better defense in the second half.” Rives added, “Our rebounding was also big, especially, in the second half.”

The Statesmen and Muleriders played to a 34-38 halftime lead for Delta State. The first half was marred by physical play and turnovers. The Statesmen shot just 35-percent in the opening frame, while SAU was 41-percent.

The second half belonged to the Statesmen and Jasper Johnson. Johnson scored 17 of his 24 points in the second half. The 6-8 senior center also cleared 11 rebounds to finish with his sixth double-double of the season.

Delta State ’s Jeremy Richardson finished with 12 points and nine rebounds, while Victor Brown chipped in 11 point and seven boards. Colby Harris scored eight points off the bench, while Sandrell Spann added seven points and five rebounds. Travis DeGroot dished out six assists with five points and three rebounds.

Southern Arkansas was led by Kenny Langhorne’s 20 points and 10 rebounds. Cory Green finished with 13 points for Bozeman’s Muleriders.

The Statesmen finished 27-of-61 from the floor for 44-percent, while the Muleriders were 24-of-62 (39-percent). DSU finished 20-of-28 (71-percent) from the free throw line and 3-of-11 (27-percent) from three point range. SAU shot 8-of-21 (38-percent) from beyond the arc and just 6-of-12 from the free throw line. DSU also out-rebounded SAU 48-31. The Statesmen also outscored the Muleriders 42-24 in the paint.

The Statesmen will return to Gulf South Conference action on Thursday, Jan. 19 at Central Arkansas University. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at The Farris Center in Conway, Ark.

 

January 12, 2006

RICHARDSON ’S 24 POINTS CARRY STATESMEN TO 73-58 WIN OVER BOLL WEEVILS

CLEVELAND – Delta State University senior guard Jeremy Richardson scored 24 points and grabbed 12 rebounds to carry the Statesmen to a 73-58 victory over the University of Arkansas-Monticello Boll WeevilsThursday at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The No. 15 Statesmen improve to 12-1 overall and 3-0 in Gulf South Conference play, while the Boll Weevils fell to 9-6 overall and 2-2 in conference action.

“Great performance for us tonight,” said DSU head coach Steve Rives. “We had good defense in the second half and turned a close game into a little more comfortable outcome.” Rives added, “Jeremy and Jasper had great nights and DeGroot did a good job running the offense.”

The Statesmen and Boll Weevils fought back and forth in the first half with DSU holding a 38-28 lead at halftime. DSU forced UAM to shoot just 35-percent in the first half on 8-of-23 shooting from the field. The Statesmen managed 56-percent from the floor on 15-of-27 shooting.

The second half belonged to Jeremy Richardson and the Statesmen. Richardson, who finished with 24 points, scored 16 in the second frame. Jasper Johnson added 10 points in the second half as well. Johnson finished with 20 points and 10 boards. It was the fifth double-double for the 6-8 senior from Hollandale.

The Statesmen would finish the game shooting 41-percent on 24-of-58 shooting, while the Boll Weevils managed 37-percent on 20-of-54 shooting. DSU was also 9-of-24 from beyond the arc (38-percent) and 16-of-19 (84-percent) from the free throw line. UAM was 5-of-25 (20-percent) from three point range and 13-of-19 (68-percent) from the charity stripe. The Statesmen also out-rebounded the Boll Weevils 38-36 and forced 15 UAM turnovers.

Victor Brown joined Richardson and Johnson in double figures with 15 points. Brown also grabbed five rebounds. Senior point guard Travis DeGroot dished out a game-high eight assists, while Turmaine Rice added eight points.

UAM was led by Nate Newell’s 16 points. MJumbe Williams added 10 points in the loss.

Richardson and the Statesmen will return to Gulf South Conference action on Thursday, Jan. 16 versus the Southern Arkansas University. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. and tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please call the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

January 11, 2006

DELTA STATE ’S JOHNSON NAMED GULF SOUTH CONFERENCE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

CLEVELAND – Delta State University Statesmen senior center Jasper Johnson was named the Gulf South Conference West Division Player of the Week for the period ending January 9 on Tuesday by the league office. It is the first honor for Johnson or the Statesmen this season.

Johnson transferred to Delta State from the University of Southern Mississippi this past summer. The Hollandale native averaged 22.4 points, eight rebounds, three steals and one block in a 3-0 week for the Statesmen. Johnson also scored a career-high 30 points versus Palm Beach Atlantic University on Monday, Jan. 9. The 6-8 center currently leads DSU in scoring (22.6), rebounding (8.4) and steals (2.6).

Johnson and the Statesmen will return to Gulf South Conference action on Thursday, Jan. 12 versus the University of Arkansas-Monticello. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. and tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please call the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

January 10, 2006

STATESMEN BREAK INTO NABC POLL AT NO. 15

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Statesmen (11-1, 2-0 GSC) broke into the National Association of Basketball Coaches DII Top-25 Poll at No. 15. The new poll was released by the NABC on Tuesday, January 10.

The Statesmen have reeled off seven wins in a row and sit tied for the Gulf South Conference West Division lead with a 2-0 record. DSU claimed a 117-67 victory over Palm Beach Atlantic University on Monday, Jan. 9 after claiming victories in the first two conference games of the year.

The Statesmen will return to Gulf South Conference action on Thursday, Jan. 12 versus the University of Arkansas-Monticello. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. and tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please call the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

January 9, 2006

STATESMEN RELL-IN SAILFISH 117-67

CLEVELAND – Jasper Johnson scored a career-high 30 points to lead the Delta State University Statesmen to a 117-67 victory over the Palm Beach Atlantic University Sailfish Monday at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Delta State’s 117 points Monday are a new season high. The Statesmen move to 11-1 on the season, while PBAU fell to 4-14.

Johnson and the Statesmen dominated the Sailfish from the opening tip. The 6-8 center from Hollandale had 20 points at halftime to lead DSU to a 60-39 lead at the break. The Statesmen were 22-of-37 in the first half for 60-percent, while the Sailfish were 13-of-26 for 50-percent. PBAU was able to stay within striking distance thanks to 9-of-12 shooting from three point range.

The second half was all green and white. The Statesmen held the Sailfish to just 28 points on 10-of-34 shooting (29-percent) and scored 57 points on 23-of-51 shooting from the field. Delta State finished 45-of-88 (51-percent) from the floor, 10-of-26 (39-percent) from three point range and 17-of-23 from the free throw line. Palm Beach Atlantic shot 23-of-60 (38-percent) from the field, 10-of-21 (47-percent) from beyond the arc and 11-of-18 from the charity stripe. DSU out-rebounded PBAU 58-29 and forced 21 Sailfish turnovers.

Delta State’s Johnson finished 12-of-16 on the night with 30 points, eight rebounds and three assists. Victor Brown added 18 points and eight rebounds. Jeremy Richardson dropped in 16 points with six boards and three assists, while Marerllis Nix scored a career-high 11 points. Sandrell Spann just missed a double-double with nine points and 10 rebounds. Travis DeGroot added nine points, four rebounds and a game-high six assists. Karl Nickerson added seven points, while Colby Harris and Turmaine Rice scored six points each. Josh Williams rounded out the scoring with five points. Palm Beach Atlantic’s Derek Barnes led the team with 13 points.

The Statesmen will return to Gulf South Conference action on Thursday, Jan. 12 versus the University of Arkansas-Monticello. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. and tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please call the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

January 7, 2006

STATESMEN POUND BISON 82-68

SEARCY , ARK. –Delta State University senior center Victor Brown recorded 17 points and grabbed 16 rebounds to power the Statesmen to an 82-68 victory over the Harding University Bisons Saturday at Rhodes Field House. With the win, the Statesmen improve to 10-1 on the season and 2-0 in Gulf South Conference play. The loss drops the Bisons to 8-3 overall and 0-1 in the GSC.

“We played a solid team game tonight and Victor really pushed us,” said DSU head coach Steve Rives. “Rhodes Field House is not an easy place to get a win and our guys really worked hard for this one tonight.” Rives added, “Our defense in the second half really shined and Jasper Johnson and Jeremy Richardson tuned it up a notch as well.”

The Statesmen took a 43-32 lead to the locker room at the half on the hot shooting of Turmaine Rice. Rice, a 6-3 junior guard, was perfect from the floor (5-of-5) and the free throw line (3-of-3) to end the half with 15 points. He would finish with 17. DSU shot a stellar 60-percent (18-of-30) from the floor, including four of six from behind the arc. The Statesmen defense held the Bisons to 31-percent (12-of-39) in the first frame.

The second half was a repeat of the first. Delta State senior center Victor Brown took over the paint to help DSU outscore HU 44-26 inside. DSU shot 14-of-31 from the field for 45-percent, while holding HU to 33-percent on 10-of-30 shooting. The Statesmen also out-rebounded the Bison 48-36 and outscored HU 32-4 in fast-break points.

Brown, an Orlando , Fla. native, finished with 17 points and 16 rebounds. Jasper Johnson led the Statesmen with 19 points, while Jeremy Richardson dropped in 18 points. Johnson finished with eight rebounds and three assists. Travis DeGroot chipped in six points and cleared six rebounds with four assists. Sandrell Spann added five points and eight rebounds.

Harding was led by Lonnie Smith’s 20 points.

The Statesmen will return to action Monday, January 9 versus Palm Beach Atlantic State University . Game time is set for 7:00 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call (662) 846-4300 or log on to the “official” home for Delta State University athletics www.gostatesmen.com.

 

January 5, 2006

STATESMEN EDGE REDDIES 64-58

CLEVELAND – Jasper Johnson and Jeremy Richardson combined for 35 points to lead the Delta State University Statesmen (9-1, 1-0 GSC) to a 64-58 victory over the Henderson State University Reddies (3-5, 0-1 GSC). The game marked the conference opener for both clubs.

“This was a big win for us tonight,” said DSU head coach Steve Rives. “Our guys played hard and I thought our interior play was really the difference.” Rives added, “Jasper and Jeremy played well and our frontcourt really worked inside in the second half.”

The first half was a back-and-forth battle between the Gulf South Conference schools. DSU took a 34-27 lead into the locker room at the break. The Statesmen were a lights-out 63-percent (15-of-24) in the opening frame. HSU managed just 37-percent (11-of-30).

The second half saw the Reddies turn up the intensity on offense to outscore DSU 31-30 in the half. The Reddies shot 13-of-21 from the field for 62-percent, while holding the Statesmen to 11-of-26 from the floor for 42-percent. DSU finished 26-of-50 (52-percent), while HSU finished 24-of-51 (47-percent). The Statesmen dominated the paint outscoring the Reddies 32-18 inside and out-rebounding HSU 30-28.

Delta State ’s Jasper Johnson led the team with 18-points and six rebounds. The 6-8 forward from Hollandale finished 9-of-14 from the floor with one assist. Senior guard Jeremy Richardson chipped in 17 points on 6-of-11 shooting with seven rebounds, while Victor Brown added 13 points and a game-high nine boards. Sandrell Spann added seven points in limited action. Junior guard Marerllis Nix played 22 minutes with three points and four assists.

Henderson State ’s Kelvin Brown led all-scorers with 19 points. Dedric Spooner added 11 points and six rebounds.

The Statesmen will return to action Saturday, January 7 versus Harding University in Searcy , Ark. Game time is set for 8:00 p.m. at Rhodes Field House. For more information, please call (662) 846-4300 or log on to the “official” home for Delta State University athletics www.gostatesmen.com.

 

December 30, 2005

STATESMEN STUN NCAA D1 LAMAR 82-73

BEAUMONT, TEXAS – Jasper Johnson scored 27 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, while Jeremy Richardson chipped in 21 points to lead the Delta State University Statesmen (8-1) to an 82-73 win over Lamar University (7-6) Friday at Montagne Arena. The win was the first this season for the Statesmen versus an NCAA Division-I school.

“This was a total team effort tonight,” said DSU head coach Steve Rives. “We won the battle on the boards and I thought we really executed our offense well down the stretch.” Rives added, “Jasper and Jeremy has great nights for us tonight, but I thought our entire team really performed well in the clutch to get us this win.”

Jasper Johnson , a 6-8 senior from Hollandale, recorded his fourth-straight double-double to lead DSU to the win. The Statesmen dominated the glass out-rebounding Lamar 48-32, while outscoring LU 34-24 in the paint. DSU shot 47-percent (30-of-64) for the game from the field, while connecting on 8-of-12 three pointers. Lamar managed 45-percent (26-of-57) for the game, while hitting on 8-of-23 three point attempts.

Senior point guard Travis DeGroot played 38 minutes and dished out six assists, while senior forward Sandrell Spann scored eight points and cleared six rebounds. Victor Brown , a 6-8 senior forward, added six points, seven boards and three blocks.

Alan Daniels scored 23 points to lead Lamar.

The Statesmen will open Gulf South Conference play on January 5, 2006 versus Henderson State University . Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please call (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

December 15, 2005

STATESMEN TAKE DOWN KNIGHTS 76-65 AT
SILLERS COLISEUM

CLEVELAND – The Delta State second half surge proved to be too much for the Bellarmine University Knights as the Statesmen rolled to a 76-65 victory. Delta State outscored BU 42-36. The Statesmen improved to 7-1 on the season, while the Knights dropped to 4-5.

The Statesmen were powered by Jeremy Richardson’s 21 points and five rebounds and Jasper Johnson’s 20 points and five rebounds. Richardson shot 8-of-12 from the floor and 5-of-7 from beyond the arc. Johnson was 7-of-10 from the floor and 5-of-5 from the free throw line. Bellarmine’s Matt Otte paced the Knights with 18 points and Calvin Fowler dropped in 12 points.

The Statesmen shot an outstanding 73-percent in the second frame. Delta State connected on 16-of-22 shots from the floor. BU shot 16-percent less in the second half, as the Statesmen defense clamped down the Knights. BU was 10-of-29 from the field in the second half and only 5-of-14 from the three point line.

For the game Delta State shot 54-percent (28-of-52) from the floor, 58-percent from three point range (7-of-12) and 59-percent (13-of-22) from the free throw line. BU was 41-percent from the floor (21-of-51) and 39-percent from three point range (11-of-28).

Delta State’s Victor Brown added 10 points and grabbed six rebounds, while Turmaine Rice and Karl Nickerson dropped in seven points. Travis DeGroot scored six points and passed out a game-high five assists. Marerllis Nix scored three points and dished out three assists in his best performance of the year.

The first saw a fast-paced opening frame with plenty of defense and few fouls. The Statesmen took a 34-29 lead into the locker room behind the play of senior guard Jeremy Richardson. The Zachary, La. native paced all scorers with 14 first half points. Jasper Johnson joined Johnson in double figures with 11 points. The Statesmen shot 40-percent (12-30) from the floor, while Bellarmine was 50-percent in the first half (11-of-22).

Three point shooting kept the Knights in the contest in the first half. The Knights connected on 6-of-14 from beyond the arc (43-percent). Delta State was an equally impressive 50-percent from the floor on 5-of-10 from three. Neither team had many free throw opportunities in the first half. BU was 1-of-2 from the line with Delta State 5-of-8. The Knights also out-rebounded the Statesmen 20-12 early.

The Statesmen will return to action on Friday, Dec. 30 versus Lamar University in Beaumont , Texas . The game is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. at Lamar Athletics Center . For more information, please call (662) 846-4300.

 

December 10, 2005

STATESMEN DOMINATE THE PAINT; SEND BUFFALOES PACKING 106-69

CLEVELAND – The Statesmen frontcourt proved to be more than the Buffaloes of Arkansas Baptist College could handle Saturday, as Delta State University claimed a 106-69 victory at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The Statesmen dominated the Buffaloes in the paint outscoring ABC 42-14. The Statesmen improved to 7-1 with the win, while the Buffaloes fell to 3-12.

The Statesmen defense played extremely well in the first half holding the Buffaloes to 38-percent (12-of-31). DSU took an early 21-17 lead at the 11:17 mark of the first half. ABC would get hot from beyond the arc, connecting on 6-of-18 first half three point attempts. The Statesmen offense would go on an eight-to-three run to stretch the halftime lead to 44-37. DSU shot 49-percent in the opening frame on 16-of-33 shooting from the field. The Statesmen also out-rebounded the Buffaloes 20-14 in the first half.

Delta State ’s Jasper Johnson and Victor Brown led the Statesmen with 12 points a piece at the break, while Arkansas Baptist was led by Terrell Jacob’s 12 points.

The second half belonged to the green and white of Delta State University . DSU would outscore the Buffaloes 62-32 in final 20 minutes. DSU’s Jeremy Richardson , who went scoreless in the first half, would score 22 points in the second half to lead the Statesmen to the win.

The Statesmen shot a blistering 22-of-30 (73-percent) from the field in the second period and were 6-of-8 (44-percent) from beyond the arc. DSU would finish with 47 rebounds to Arkansas Baptist’s 27. DSU connected on 22-of-37 free throws (60-percent), while ABC finished 18-of-22 (82-percent).

Jeremy Richardson paced the Statesmen with 22 points, while Jasper Johnson added 17 points and Victor Brown dropped in 16 points. Turmaine Rice also scored in double-digits with 10 points. Travis DeGroot and Karl Nickerson scored eight points a piece, while Justin Neely added seven. Sandrell Spann, Joshua Williams and Colby Harris rounded out the scoring with six points a piece.

Jasper Johnson also recorded 12 rebounds to finish with his third double-double of the year. The Hollandale native also dished out a team-high seven assists.

Arkansas Baptist was led by Terrell Jacob’s 23 points. Kevin Morris and Casey Garrison scored 13 points each.

The game was called with 1:17 remaining in the second half due to flagrant fouls.

The Statesmen will return to action on Thursday, Dec. 15 versus Bellarmine University at 7 p.m. The game will be played at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Tickets are on sale now. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call (662) 846-4300.

 

December 5, 2005

RICHARDSON AND JOHNSON POWER STATESMEN TO
89-78 WIN OVER BULLDOGS

CLEVELAND – Jeremy Richardson’s 25 points and Jasper Johnson’s 21 points and 11 rebounds powered the Delta State University Statesmen (5-1) to an 89-78 victory over the Bulldogs of Tougaloo College (2-6). With the win, the Statesmen remained unbeaten at Walter Sillers Coliseum (3-0) and completed the season sweep of Tougaloo 2-0.

The Statesmen never trailed in the contest after leading 53-40 at the break. Delta State shot a blistering 81-percent in the first half connecting on 17-of-21 shots. Tougaloo also shot an impressive 52-percent for the half. The Bulldogs finished the first half 15-of-29 from the field including 6-of-16 from beyond the three point arc.

The Bulldogs went on furious 19-13 run to start the second half to cut the lead to 66-59 at the 11:54 mark. Delta State ’s Jeremy Richardson sank a three pointer to end the Tougaloo run.

The tandem of Richardson and Johnson finished with a combined 46 points and 15 rebounds. Richardson also dished out six assists and Johnson handed out five. Turmaine Rice added 14 points and Sandrell Spann 10 points in the win. Victor Brown dropped in eight points with Colby Harris chipping in five. Travis DeGroot finished with four points and three assists, while Karl Nickerson rounded out the scoring with two points.

The Statesmen finished 30-of-46 from the field (65-percent), while the Bulldogs were 29-of-56 (52-percent). Delta State out-rebounded Tougaloo 29-21 and forced 17 Bulldog turnovers. The Bulldogs lived and died by the three pointer. Tougaloo connected on 14-of-31 from beyond the arc, while Delta State was 4-of-11. DSU was also 25-of-35 (71-percent) from the free throw line.

The Statesmen will continue their four game home stand on Saturday, Dec. 10 versus Arkansas Baptist College . Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

 

November 29, 2005

STATESMEN FALL TO LIONS 95-89 AT FLOWERS HALL

FLORENCE , Ala. – Trailing by as many as 22 points, the Delta State University Statesmen fought back to make a game of it before falling 95-89 to the University of North Alabama Lions at Flowers Hall. The Statesmen fell to 4-1, while North Alabama improved to 5-2.

The Lions took a 50-35 lead into the locker room at the half after shooting 17-of-30 (56-percent) from the floor. DSU was ice cold in the first half connecting on 15-of-39 from the floor in the opening frame.

The second half was a completely different story for the Statesmen. Delta State clawed back into the game with tenacious defense and a quick-strike offense. The Statesmen shot 67-percent in the second half, but UNA also played well hitting on 52 percent.

Delta State ’s Jasper Johnson and Sandrell Spann posted double-doubles. Johnson led all scorers with 29 points and 12 boards, while Spann added a career-high 21 points and 11 boards. Marlon McCoy added 10 points off the bench.

North Alabama was led by Milton Nance’s 20 points. A.J. Gordon added 18 points and three other Lions were in double figures.

The Statesmen will return to action on Monday, Dec. 5 versus Tougaloo College . Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

 

November 22, 2005

STATESMEN CLAIM 83-77 OVERTIME WIN OVER KNIGHTS

LOUISVILLE, KY – The Delta State University Statesmen (4-0, 0-0 GSC) outscored the Bellarmine University Knights (1-2, 0-0 GLIAC) 24-14 down the stretch to claim an 83-77 win in overtime at Knights Hall in Louisville , Ky.

Trailing 63-59 with 3:28 remaining in the second half, the Delta State University Statesmen went on an 8-4 run to send the game into overtime. In the extra frame, the Statesmen outscored the Knights 16-10 to claim the victory.

Delta State ’s Jasper Johnson led all scorers with 24 points. The senior from Hollandale connected on 9-of-17 shots and grabbed five rebounds in the win. Jeremy Richardson chipped in 16 points and cleared three rebounds, while Victor Brown added 14 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Sandrell Spann set a personal best with 13 rounds in the game. Spann, a 6-6 senior forward from Jackson , scored nine points as well. Travis DeGroot also set a new personal best with 13 assists in the victory.

Bellarmine’s Kyle Thrasher led the Knights with 21 points. Matt Otte posted a double-double for BU with 18 points and 11 rebounds.

The Statesmen connected on 28-of-60 shots for 47-percent, while holding the Knights to 43-percent on 30-of-70 shooting. Delta State also out-rebounded Bellarmine 47-39.

Delta State will return to action on Nov. 29 at the University of North Alabama in Florence. Game time is set for 8:00 p.m. at Flowers Hall.

 

November 19, 2005

STATESMEN THRASH DRAGONS 97-65 TO CLOSE OUT STATE FARM CLASSIC

CLEVELAND – Jasper Johnson’s 25 points and eight rebounds powered the Delta State University Statesmen (3-0) to a 97-65 victory over the Lane College Dragons in the second round of the State Farm Insurance Classic at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The announced crowd was 1,075 on Saturday.

“The defense was very good all night and I thought Jasper Johnson really got us going tonight,” said DSU head coach Steve Rives. “The second half was much better than the first and our guys seemed very focused down the stretch.”

The Statesmen led 46-28 at the half powered by Johnson’s 15 first-half points. Delta State shot a stellar 14-of-25 in the first half (56-percent), while holding the Dragons to 31-percent (9-of-29).

The second half belonged to the green and white. Jasper Johnson added 10 second points to finish with 25 points. Jeremy Richardson got going in the second half to finish with 14 points. Victor Brown added 13 points and Turmaine Rice 11 points. Travis DeGroot chipped in seven points and game-high nine assists. Sandrell Spann contributed eight points and six rebounds.

Lane College ’s Adrian Comer led all-scorers with 28 points and eight rebounds.

Delta State finished the game 30-of-64 (46.9-percent) from the floor. Lane College finished 23-of-63 (36.5-percent) from the floor as well. The Statesmen dominated on the glass out-rebounding the Dragons 50-35. Delta State also forced 18 Dragon turnovers.

The Statesmen will travel to Bellarmine University of November 22. Game time is set for 7:00 p.m. in Louisville, Ky.

 

November 18, 2005

STATESMEN DRILL BEARS, 102-68, IN OPENING GAME OF STATE FARM CLASSIC

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Statesmen (2-0) drilled the Miles College Bears (0-1), 102-68, in the opening round of the State Farm Insurance Classic at Walter Sillers Coliseum before a crowd of 1,125 on Friday. It was the home opener for Coach Steve Rives and his crew.

Delta State ’s Jeremy Richardson, a senior from Zachary , La. , led all scorers with 27 points, while finished with six rebounds and one assist.

“This was a good win for us,” said DSU head coach Steve Rives. “Our offense performed really well and the defense in the second half was great.” Rives added, “I thought the crowd was great tonight and they really stayed in the game till the end. Tomorrow Lane College will be a big challenge and I hope everyone come back out.”

The first half was tight as the Statesmen took a 44-39 lead on the Bears. DSU’s Richardson scored 16 in the first frame, while Miles’ William Barnes had 14 points. The Statesmen shot 49-percent in the first half (18-of-37), while holding Miles to 46-percent (15-of-33).

The second half belonged to the Statesmen, as DSU outscored the Bears 58-33. Delta State ’s Jasper Johnson finished with 20 points and four rebounds, while Turmaine Rice finished with 18 points. Victor Brown and Colby Harris finished with 10 points each. Travis DeGroot finished with a career-high 12 assists.

“Travis was a major reason our offense performed so well tonight,” said Rives. “His 11 assists were key and the fact that he only had one turnover was huge.” Rives added, “We also had a chance to play a lot of guys tonight and I hope that will payoff in the end.”

The Bears’ William Barnes finished with 23 points. Anthony Ward and Gamel Kemp posted 14 points each.

The Statesmen finished 41-of-73 (56.2-percent) from the floor, while holding the Bears to 26-of-69 (37.7-percent) shooting. Delta State shot 11-of-21 (52.4-percent) from three point range and 9-of-18 (50-percent) from the free throw line. The Statesmen also out-rebounded the Bears 47-36, while forcing 18 Bear turnovers.

Delta State will play Lane College Saturday night, Nov. 19 at 8:00 p.m. in the second round of the State Farm Insurance Classic at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Tickets are $5 and everyone is invited to attend.

 

November 13, 2005

STATESMEN MAKE STRONG SHOWING IN SUNSHINE STATE ; FLORIDA STATE PREVAILS 105-91

TALLAHASSEE , Fla. – Coach Steve Rives and the Delta State University Statesmen opened the exhibition basketball season with a bang versus Florida State University on Sunday. The Statesmen put a big scare into the Seminoles before falling 105-91 at the Donald Tucker Center . Sunday’s game was the only exhibition event for either club.

Guard Jeremy Richardson led Delta State with a game-high 25 points and eight rebounds in 37 minutes of play. He made a game-high four 3-point field goals and was five of six from the free throw line. Richardson also pulled down eight rebounds. Forward Jasper Johnson scored 24 points and pulled down a game-high 10 rebounds to go along with three steals in 31 minutes.

Senior guard Todd Galloway scored 21 points, junior forward Alexander Johnson scored 20 and junior forward Al Thornton and sophomore guard Isaiah Swann added 19 each to lead the Florida State .

Florida State looked to have broken open the game early as they scored 11 consecutive points to move a 9-9 tie to a 20-9 lead with 13:04 remaining in the first half. Seminole freshman Uche Echefu all of his six points on a free throw, a dunk and a 3-point shot during the two-minute stretch.

The Statesmen, who shot 51.6 percent for the game, refused to go quietly into the exhibition afternoon went on an 18-6 run to take a 27-26 lead with 9:01 remaining in the first half. Delta State did not fall behind until a Diego Romeo lay-up tied the game at 38 and a made free throw by Galloway put Florida State up for good a 39-38 with 3:57 left in the first half. From that point in the first half, the Seminoles outscored the Statesmen by a 15-8 margin and led 54-46 at halftime.

The Seminoles led by double-digits throughout the second half until Delta State closed the gap to nine (93-84) with 4:43 left in the game. Florida State outscored Delta State , 12-7, to close out the game.

The Statesmen will begin the regular season on Tuesday, November 15 at Tougaloo College in Jackson . Game time is set for 8 p.m. at the Tougaloo College Athletic Center.

November 10, 2005

STATESMEN SET TO BATTLE SEMINOLES IN SUNDAY EXHIBITION

CLEVELAND – College basketball season is here and this Sunday at the Donald Tucker Coliseum in Tallahassee, Fla. the Statesmen of Delta State University will take on the Seminoles of Florida State University in a preseason exhibition. Game time is set for 4 p.m. EST.

“This will be a large challenge for us,” stated DSU head coach Steve Rives. “Our guys have really worked hard and they are excited about playing against someone other than themselves.”

The opportunity to face one of the ACC’s top teams would concern most coaches and Coach Steve Rives knows they will be a huge challenge. “FSU will have a tremendous talent level and we will be faced with a large crowd,” concluded Rives. “However, I don’t expect the crowd or the environment to be too big of a factor. Many of the guys on this team have played division one basketball and most of our returning players faced Georgia State last season. If we execute some great things will come out of this!” Rives added, “We’re just happy for the opportunity and I know our guys are very excited about the chance.”

The Statesmen finished the 2004-05 season 19-11 overall and co-Champions of the Gulf South Conference West Division. Delta State returns four starters off last year’s squad and expectations are riding high at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

Jeremy Richardson, a 6-6 guard from Zachary, La., is the top returning scorer. Richardson was selected to the All-Gulf South Conference First Team last season after scoring 15.0 points and grabbing 4.2 rebounds per game.

Richardson will not be alone on Sunday. Seniors Marlon McCoy, Colby Harris and Sandrell Spann are all returning starters. McCoy averaged 10.2 points per game last season from his shooting guard spot, while Harris (7.9 ppg/5.9 rpg) and Spann (8.3 ppg/5.9 rpg) form one of the top front courts in the GSC.

Three NCAA DI transfers dot the 2005-06 roster and will add some immediate punch to an already explosive offense. Jasper Johnson, a 6-8 power forward from Hollandale, transferred from Southern Mississippi during the summer. The powerful post averaged 15.4 points and 7.4 rebounds per game last season for the Golden Eagles. Travis DeGroot, a 6-4 point guard from Montclair, N.J., sat out last season after transferring from Georgia State University and Victor Brown, a 6-8 center from Orlando, Fla., comes from the University of New Orleans. Add three junior college transfers and two of the top freshmen in the state to the mix and Coach Steve Rives has an awful lot to smile about in 2005-06.

Sunday’s opponent is expected to be one of the most improved teams in the Atlantic Coast Conference this season. Coach Leonard Hamilton has the FSU Seminoles ready to play. Sophomore guard Von Wafer will lead FSU into the exhibition. Wafer averaged over 12 points per game last season as a freshman in the nation’s toughest basketball conference. FSU returns four starters off last season’s club and eight lettermen. Sunday’s game is also Fan Appreciation Day at Tucker Coliseum.

The Statesmen will return to Cleveland on Monday and begin preparations for their next opponent. Delta State will travel to Jackson on Tuesday, Nov. 15 to take on Tougaloo College in non-conference action. Game time is set for 8:00 p.m. at TC in Jackson.

 

October 15, 2005

HIGH EXPECTATIONS MEET STATESMEN AND LADY STATESMEN ON THE COURT SATURDAY

CLEVELAND – College basketball season is just around the corner and high expectations will meet the Delta State University Statesmen and Lady Statesmen when they take the court for the opening practice of the year on Saturday. Both teams will hit the floor twice at Walter Sillers Coliseum with the Lady Statesmen starting at 9:15 a.m.

Coach Steve Rives and the Statesmen are expecting big things in 2005-06. The Statesmen are coming off a 19-10 season and a trip to the Gulf South Conference Championship game. The Statesmen return three starters and three lettermen off last season’s squad.

Jeremy Richardson, a 6-6 guard from Zachary , La. , leads the returnees. Richardson was a First team All-GSC selection in 2004-05 after leading the Statesmen in scoring at 15 points per game. Joining Richardson as returning starters are Marlon McCoy, a 6-2 guard from Baton Rouge , La. , and Sandrell Spann, a 6-7 power forward, from Jackson .

Recruiting was a major focus for Rives and his staff after last season’s stellar finish. This season’s roster will feature three NCAA Division I transfers and a host a talented juniors and freshmen. Jasper Johnson, a 6-8 forward from Hollandale, comes to DSU after three seasons at the University of Southern Mississippi . Victor Brown, a 6-8 junior center, will anchor the middle after transferring from the University of New Orleans , while Travis Degroot, a 6-4 point guard, will handle the backcourt after making the shift from Georgia State University .

The Statesmen will also feature one of the toughest schedules in NCAA DII. Rives and DSU will face Florida State and Lamar University , while playing 27 regular season games. 16 games will dot the Walter Sillers Coliseum schedule including the State Farm Insurance Classic November 18 and 19. The season begins November 13 with an exhibition match up at Florida State University in Tallahassee , Fla. Game time is set for 4:00 p.m.

Coach Sandra Rushing and her staff also expect bigger and better things in the coming season. The Lady Statesmen return four starters off last season’s 15-12 squad. Jennifer Rushing returns after a stellar freshman season that saw the Hollandale native capture Gulf South Conference West Division Freshman of the Year honors. Rushing averaged 11.4 points and a GSC-best 5.4 assists per game. Also returning is fifth-year senior Amber Gean. The West Memphis , Ark. native is coming off a torn knee ligament that kept her out of competition last season. Gean averaged 9.4 points during the 2003-04 season, while leading DSU to the NCAA South Regional at Rollins College . Senior center Lawanda Stewart (9.8 ppg), junior point guard Natalie Ellington (6.6 ppg), and junior guard Wyconda Thomas (9.8 ppg) are all returning starters.

Coach Sandra Rushing will also have a talented and experienced bench. Juniors Rebecca Brown (F) and Ashley Martin (G) and sophomores Sheena Swanigan (G), Courtney Wilson (F), and Whitney Shepard (G) return to provide leadership and depth off the bench.

The Lady Statesmen will also have four highly anticipated new comers on the squad this season. Freshman Britta Stephens, a 5-8 guard, joins DSU from North Pike High School , while junior guard Shalonda Williams, a Holmes Community College transfer, will add depth in the backcourt. A pair of 6-3 centers will make a major impact for Rushing’s Lady Statesmen. Casey Broussard, a transfer from LSU-Eunice, and Renita Jones, a freshman from Starkville , will compete to anchor the middle for Rushing.

The 2005-06 schedule is daunting one for Rushing and the Lady Statesmen. Delta State will play 27 total games with 14 coming at Walter Sillers Coliseum. DSU will open the season on November 15 at Tougaloo College . Game time is set for 5:30 p.m.

 

May 5, 2005

STATESMEN INK TURMAINE RICE - LOUISIANA JUNIOR COLLEGE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

CLEVELAND – Delta State University Men’s Basketball Coach Steve Rives announced the signing of Turmaine Rice Thursday at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Rice becomes the fourth player to ink with the Statesmen this season.

Rice, a 6-3 guard from Shreveport , La. , comes to Delta State after two seasons at Louisiana State University-Shreveport. He was selected the Louisiana State Junior College Player of the Year in 2003-04 and 2004-05 after averaging 20.4 points, five assists and three rebounds for his career. In 2004-05, Rice led LSUS to the Louisiana State Junior College Championship.

Rice was a four-year letter-winner for Coach Johnny Jackson at Doyline High School . The 6-3 shooting guard averaged 22 points and six rebounds his senior year while guiding DHS to a 39-2 record. During his high school career he was a two-time All-State, All-District, District MVP, and the 2002-03 Webster Parish Most Outstanding Player.

 

April 28, 2005

STATESMEN BASKETBALL INKS CLARK

CLEVELAND – Delta State University Head Men’s Basketball Coach Steve Rives announced the signing of David Clark Thursday at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Clark, a 6-6 195 forward, played for Coach Bobby Lee at Lawrence County High School.

The Monticello native is a four-time All-District VI-4A selection and the 2004-05 District Most Valuable Player. He was nominated for the 2005 McDonald’s All-America Team. The 6-6 small forward averaged 28 points, 9.3 rebounds and three blocks a game for LCHS. Clark broke the school record for points in a game with 43 versus Jim Hill High School. He also holds the record for career charges taken with 37.

Clark will graduate with honors in May. He has a 3.51 cumulative grad point average and is ranked in the top fifteen percent of his class.

April 15, 2005

DELTA STATE BASKETBALL ANNOUNCES WILLIAMS SIGNING

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Men’s Basketball team and Coach Steve Rives announced the signing of Josh Williams Friday at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Williams becomes the third player to sign with the Statesmen this spring.

Josh Williams, 6-4 forward, played the last two seasons at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College in Perkiston. Williams helped guide the Bulldogs to a 15-11 record and back-to-back trips to the Mississippi State JUCO Tournament. While at MGCC, Williams played for Head Coach Wendell Weathers and former DSU standout and assistant coach Brad Bunch.

The Gulfport native completed a stellar prep career at St. John’s High School before signing with MGCC.

 

April 13, 2005

LUKE TOWNSEND INKS WITH STATESMEN

CLEVELAND – Coach Steve Rives and the Delta State University Statesmen basketball team announced the signing of Central Hinds Academy point guard Luke Townsend. Townsend is the second player to sign with the Statesmen this season.

"Luke is solid guard and he will help our program tremendously,” stated DSU Head Coach Steve Rives.” “He works hard on the court and has the skills to run our system.”

Townsend, a 6-1 point guard, was a three-time MPSA All-Conference selection and was named All-Conference Most Valuable Player his senior season. Last year for Central Hinds Academy, Townsend averaged 17.4 points, 7.4 assists, and 7.6 rebounds per game. He was also a participant in the MPSA All-Star game this season.

 

April 13, 2005

STATESMEN BASKETBALL ANNOUNCES JASPER JOHNSON SIGNING AT WALTER SILLERS COLISEUM

CLEVELAND – Delta State University Head Men’s Basketball Coach Steve Rives announced the signing of Jasper Johnson Thursday at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Johnson, a former All-State selection at Hollandale-Simmons High School, will be transferring from the University of Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles.

"We are extremely excited about the addition of Jasper to our program,” stated Rives. “He gives us a legitimate scorer in the low post.”

Johnson, 6-8 260, played in the front court for the Golden Eagles the last three seasons. Before announcing he was leaving the team, Johnson was averaging double-figures in points and amongst the team leaders in rebounding. For his USM career, Johnson averaged 12.5 points, 5.4 rebounds and averaged 23.1 minutes per game.

 

March 8, 2005

RICHARDSON NAMED FIRST TEAM ALL-GSC

CLEVELAND – Delta State University men’s basketball standout Jeremy Richardson was named to the All-Gulf South Conference First Team Tuesday by a vote of the league coaches. Richardson, a Zachary, La., native led the Statesmen to a (19-11) record and a trip to the GSC Championship game.

"We are very pleased for Jeremy today,” stated DSU Head Coach Steve Rives . “He really matured as a player and a person this season and I believe it showed in the conference tournament.” Rives added, “His dedication to the team helped us tremendously down the stretch and I truly believe he is very deserving of this honor.”

Richardson led the Statesmen in scoring (15.0) and was second in steals with 36. The 6-6 small forward had a coming out party at the GSC Tournament in Tupelo last week. Richardson scored a total of 67 points in three games and was named to the All-Tournament for his efforts.

 

March 6, 2005

STATESMEN FALL TO MONTEVALLO 72-60 IN GSC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

 TUPELO – The University of Montevallo Falcons (24-6) would not be denied today, as UM downed the Delta State University Statesmen (19-11) 72-60 in the Men’s Championship game of the Gulf South Conference Tournament. It was the second straight title for the Falcons.

"I am proud of our guys. We played hard this weekend but didn’t have enough in the tank today,” stated DSU Head Coach Steve Rives. “We played as a team and really grew as a unit. I think the West Georgia game was our best effort, but I am pleased with our performance.”

Montevallo was able to extend a seven point half-time (38-32) lead into a twelve point margin to conclude the contest. The Falcons shot 44 percent on 24-of-54 shooting for the game, while holding the Statesmen to 41 percent on 22-of-53 shooting. DSU out-rebounded UM 36-32, but UM forced 14 Statesmen turnovers.

Jeremy Richardson paced the Statesmen with 18 points on 6-of-16 shooting. The junior from Zachary, La. also grabbed five boards and dished out two assists. Marlon McCoy was the only other Statesmen in double-figures with 14. Sandrell Spann added nine points and 10 rebounds.

James Hall led all scorers with 21 points for Montevallo. Marcus Kennedy chipped in 15 points and D.J. Towns added 11 in the win.

Jeremy Richardson was named to the All-GSC Tournament Team after averaging 22.7 points per game in three tournament outings. Montevallo’s Hall was named the Most Outstanding Player of the Tournament after leading the Falcons to back-to-back GSC Championships.

The Statesmen await the NCAA Division II Selection Show to see if DSU has garnered a tournament bid. The show will air tonight at 9:30 p.m. and is available on the World Wide Web at www.ncaachampionships.com.

 

March 5, 2005

STATESMEN DOWN NO. 11 BRAVES 70-65 TO ADVANCE TO THE GULF SOUTH CONFERENCE MEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

 TUPELO, Miss. – The Delta State University Statesmen (19-10) erased a 12 point deficit with 16:12 remaining to defeat the State University of West Georgia Braves (23-6) 70-65 today at the BancorpSouth Center. The win put the Statesmen into the GSC Championship game tomorrow versus the Montevallo/Central Arkansas winner. DSU last appeared in the GSC title game in 2000-01 and last claimed the title in 1997-98.

“I’m real proud of my guys. We did some really good things against West Georgia to deliver the win,” stated DSU Head Coach Steve Rives. “The last two nights were the first time this season we didn’t care who did it as long as it got done. It was a total team effort!”

Delta State trailed for much of the second half, leading only the final 2:29 of the contest. DSU cut the West Georgia lead to 65-64 on Trey Sanders lay-up with 3:34 remaining. Sanders would give the Statesmen the lead for good when the senior from Jackson connected on a three-pointer to make it 67-65 with 2:29 remaining. The Statesmen would add three more points to seal the win and put Delta State into the title game.

Jeremy Richardson paced the Statesmen with 17 points on 7-of-16 shooting from the field. Marlon McCoy added 12 points and Corey Johnson chipped in 10. Sandrell Spann dominated the boards with 12 rebounds and eight points. Karlton Fields added nine points and seven rebounds, while Trey Sanders dropped in eight points and dished out five assists.

Majestic Mapp led all scorers with 19 points for the Braves, while Darnell Millers dropped in 17 points and dished out six assists.

The Statesmen shot 45 percent on 27-of-60 shooting for the game, while holding UWG to 41 percent on 22-of-53 shooting. DSU shot an abysmal 38 percent in the first half, as UWG took a 38-32 lead into the locker room at half time. The Statesmen would outscore the Braves 38-27 in the final 20 minutes to record the win. DSU also out-rebounded West Georgia 39-32 for the game.

Delta State will play for their fifth championship tomorrow, as the Statesmen will face the University of Montevallo versus University of Central Arkansas winner at 2:45 p.m. at the BancorpSouth Center. The Statesmen claimed the 1982, 1993, 1997 and 1998 Gulf South Conference Championships.

 

March 4, 2005

RICHARDSON’S 33 POINTS POWER THE STATESMEN PAST BISON IN THE QUARTFINALS OF THE GULF SOUTH CONFERENCE TOURNAMENT

TUPELO, Miss. – Jeremy Richardson’s career-high 33 points powered the Delta State University Statesmen (18-10, 12-5 GSC) to an 84-77 victory over the Harding University Bison (18-11, 11-7 GSC) today in the quarterfinals of the Gulf South Conference Men’s Basketball Tournament.

The Statesmen shot 56 percent for the game (24-of-43), while holding the Bison to a season-low 34 percent (23-of-67). The game came down to free throw shooting, as 58 total fouls were called in the contest. DSU shot 33-of-50 from the foul line, while Harding connected on 21-of-30 foul shots. DSU also out-rebounded HU 37-36 on the glass.

Delta State placed five players in double-figures led by Richardson’s 33 points. Colby Harris and Marlon McCoy dropped in 12 points apiece. Harris grabbed seven rebounds, while McCoy grabbed eight and dished out five assists. Karlton Fields scored 11 points and grabbed three boards in only 14 minutes. Corey Johnson dropped in 10 points off the bench.

Matt Hall paced the Bison with 29 points on 8-of-19 shooting. Lonnie Smith added 20 points off the bench for Harding.

The Statesmen advance to face the University of Arkansas-Monticello versus University of West Georgia match-up at 5:30 p.m. tomorrow in the semi-finals at the BancorpSouth Center.

 

March 1, 2005

STATESMEN BASKETBALL SEEKS FOURTH GSC CHAMPIONSHIP UNDER RIVES

TUPELO – The Delta State University Statesmen (17-10, 11-5 GSC) enter this week’s Gulf South Conference Basketball Tournament seeking their fourth championship under Head Coach Steve Rives. The Statesmen, who enter as the No. 1 seed from the Western Division, claimed GSC Championships in 1992-93, 1996-97 and 1997-98.

"Our goals have always been to win the West and set ourselves up for a chance to win the Gulf South Championship,” stated DSU Head Coach Steve Rives. “We have been lucky enough to put ourselves in that situation a number of times and it has paid off.” Rives added, “This team has had to face some ups and downs this season, but they have never quit. We had a number of goals entering the season and the next one on the list is Tupelo.”

Delta State claimed a share of the GSC Western Division crown with an 11-5 conference record this season. The Statesmen tied with the University of Central Arkansas for the division. DSU claimed the No. 1 seed from the West after a coin flip. The tie was broken by a coin flip.

The Statesmen are led by point guard Trey Sanders, small forward Jeremy Richardson, and shooting guard Marlon McCoy. Sanders leads the Statesmen in assists (5.2) and is second in scoring (10.9) per game. The Jim Hill graduate and Jackson native has directed a second half resurgence by DSU this season, as the Statesmen claimed wins in 10 of their final 14 games. Richardson leads DSU in scoring at 14.1 points per game and is amongst the GSC leaders in three point field goal percentage (43 percent). The Zachary, La. native has scored 20 or more points in six games this season. McCoy has been a spark for the Statesmen off the bench for much of the year. The Baton Rouge, La. native is one of the best penetrating guards in the GSC. McCoy is averaging 10.5 points and 3.6 assists per game this season.

DSU also features two of the best big men in the GSC. Sandrell Spann and Colby Harris combine to give the Statesmen a formidable presence in the paint. Spann, a Provine graduate and Jackson native, has continued to develop into one of the premiere power forwards in the GSC. Spann averages 8.5 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. Colby Harris, a New Orleans, La. native, contributes 8.2 points and 4.7 boards per contest. “Sandrell and Colby can be as great as they want to be,” stated Coach Rives. “Both players can score in the paint and they both can step out from 15 or 16 feet and knockdown a jumper.”

Rives and the Statesmen know this is one of the deepest GSC Tournaments in memory. “The competition is going to be tough. The GSC is one of the strongest DII conferences in America and I believe you will be able to see that this weekend,” stated Rives. “We have a bye and will face the Harding/Valdosta State winner on Friday. Either team is very tough. Both have size and quickness and they will give us some serious match-up problems,” added Rives.

Pre-tournament favorites are Montevallo, DSU, West Georgia and Central Arkansas. The Gulf South Conference Tournament begins March 2 nd and runs through March 6 th at the BancorpSouth Center in Tupelo. DSU will play its first game on Friday, March 4 th at 12:30 p.m. versus the Harding/Valdosta State winner. Log on to www.gulfsouthconference.org for more information.

 

February 28, 2005

STATESMEN CLAIM SHARE OF GSC WESTERN DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP WITH 67-62 WIN OVER THE ARKANSASTECHUNIVERSITY WONDER BOYS

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Statesmen (17-10, 11-5 GSC) used 17 points from Jeremy Richardson to down Arkansas Tech University (10-17, 3-13 GSC) 67-62 at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The win gives Coach Rives and the Statesmen a share of the GSC Western Division Championship. The Statesmen and Bears of UCA await a coin flip to see who will be the No.1 seed at the upcoming GSC Tournament.

The Statesmen shot a poor 38 percent from the field on 25-of-66 shooting, but managed to out-rebound the Wonder Boys 46-43 including 23 offensive rebounds. The Statesmen also forced 11 turnovers and blocked six shots.

Trey Sanders added 13 points and six boards with five assists. Colby Harris dropped in 11 points and grabbed six boards. Sandrell Spann added eight points with nine rebounds, while Karlton Fields chipped in eight as well. Marlon McCoy added seven points and Karl Nickerson rounded out the scoring with three points.

Jeremy Johnson paced the Wonder Boys with 22 points, while Rone Smith added 16 points and 13 rebounds. Andrew Stanek dropped in 18 points on 6-of-9 three point shooting.

The Statesmen will play at either 12:30 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. in the quarterfinal round of the Gulf South Conference Tournament next Friday in Tupelo. Log on to www.gostatesmen.com to find out a complete list of the GSC Tournament games.

February 24, 2005

OBU DOWNS DSU 77-65

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – The Ouachita Baptist University Tigers (17-9, 9-6 GSC) used an excellent night from three-point range (11-of-29) to edge the Delta State University Statesmen (16-10, 10-5 GSC) 77-65 in the Bill Vining Arena.

The Statesmen placed four players in double-figures, but failed to contain the three-point shooting of Kennis Green (5-of-15) and Travis Williams (4-of-7). Green finished with 24 points and Williams added 16 points. The Statesmen were paced by Trey Sanders 16 points, while Marlon McCoy added 15 points in the loss. Jeremy Richardson dropped in 14 points and Colby Harris chipped in 10 points to round out the double-figure scorers.

The Statesmen trailed at the half 39-33, but struggled to defend the Tigers in the second half. OBU out-scored the Statesmen 38-32 in the final frame. DSU shot 51 percent on 23-of-45 shooting from the field, while OBU connected on 46 percent (25-of-55) of their shots. DSU connected on 6-of-11 three point attempts, but allowed OBU to shoot 11-of-29 from deep. The Tigers also out-rebounded the Statesmen 33-26 and forced 14 DSU turnovers.

Delta State University returns to action on Saturday, as the Statesmen play host to the Arkansas Tech University Wonder Boys. Game time is set for 8 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

 

February 21, 2005

STATESMEN CLAIM 78-54 VICTORY OVER BUCCANEERS

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Statesmen (16-10, 10-4 GSC) shot 50 percent from the field for the game en route to a 78-54 victory over the Christian Brothers University Buccaneers (13-13, 5-10 GSC). The win guarantees the Statesmen a trip to the GSC Tournament in Tupelo at the BancorpSouth Center and vaults the Statesmen into first place in the West Division.

Jeremy Richardson paced the Statesmen with 22 points and a handful of highlight reel dunks. Colby Harris added 16 points and nine rebounds, while Marlon McCoy dropped in 14 points with four assists. Sandrell Spann and Randy Walton added eight points apiece. Karl Nickerson and Trey Sanders added four points each, while Steveland Hodges rounded out the scoring with two points.

The Statesmen connected on 30-of-60 (50 percent) shot attempts, while holding CBU to 20-of-57 (35 percent) from the floor for the game. DSU also out-rebounded CBU 39-29.

Lou Wright led the Buccaneers with 14 points and two boards.

The Statesmen travel to Arkadelphia, Ark. on Thursday to face the Ouachita Baptist University Tigers. Game time is set for 8 p.m. at the Bill Vining Arena.

 

February 17, 2005

UCA SLIDES PAST DSU 78-66 IN OVERTIME

CONWAY, Ark. - The University of Central Arkansas men's basketball team hit 5-of-7 shot attempts from the field and 4-of-5 free throw attempts as they outscored Delta State 15-3 in overtime in a 78-66 victory at the Farris Center.

The Bears (19-6, 9-5 GSC) move within a half game behind the second place Statesmen (15-9, 9-4 GSC) in the Gulf South Conference West race, and a full game back of division leader Arkansas-Monticello.

UCA overcame a 56-51 deficit with 5:32 remaining in regulation to force the extra period. The Bears scored the first 11 points of overtime. UCA out-rebounded the Statesmen 47-37. The Bears also went 23-of-26 from the free throw line, for a season-best 88.5 percent.

Grimes led all scorers with 24 points on 10-of-17 shooting to go with six assists. Senior forward Lee Reliford finished with 21 points and a career-high 17 rebounds for his eighth double-double of the season. Junior Darryl Jones and senior Chris Gray chipped in 14 and 11 points, respectively. Senior center Nedzad Biberovic managed just six points, but pulled down a career-high 13 boards.

Trey Sanders paced Delta with 17 points and six assists. Jeremy Richardson scored 13 points and Colby Harris chipped in 10.

Delta State returns to action on Monday night, as the Statesmen play host to the Buccaneers of Christian Brothers University. Game time is set for 8 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

 

February 14, 2005

SPANN POWERS STATESMEN TO 77-56 VICTORY OVER MULERIDERS

CLEVELAND – Sandrell Spann’s third double-double of the season powered the Statesmen (15-8, 9-3 GSC) to a 77-56 win over the Muleriders of Southern Arkansas University (6-18, 2-11 GSC). Spann, a junior from Jackson, paced Delta State with 21 points and 11 rebounds, seven of which were offensive. The win moves DSU to within a half-game of first place in the GSC Western Division.

The Statesmen held a slim six point lead at the half (33-27), but ran the six points to as many as 24 points in the second half. Delta State held SAU to 33 percent for the game (21-of-63), while shooting 49 percent from the field (32-of-66). The Statesmen out-rebounded the Muleriders 52-36 and forced 11 SAU turnovers.

Four Statesmen finished with double figures led by Spann’s 21. Patrick Culver added 12 points and nine rebounds, while Colby Harris and Jeremy Richardson chipped in 10 points apiece. Trey Sanders finished with nine points and a team-high five assists.

Ronnie Smith led SAU with 14 points and three assists in the loss.

The Statesmen return to action Thursday night in Conway, Ark. at the University of Central Arkansas. Delta State and UCA are set for an 8 p.m. tip-off.

 

February 12, 2005

STATESMEN EDGE NO. 22 BOLL WEEVILS 78-75

 

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Statesmen (14-8, 8-3 GSC) edged the No. 22 University of Arkansas-Monticello Boll Weevils (18-5, 9-3) 78-75 tonight at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Jeremy Richardson paced the Statesmen with 22 points, while Trey Sanders dished out a career-high 12 assists in the win. The victory moves the Statesmen within a half-game of first place in the Western Division of the Gulf South Conference.

The Statesmen led 78-75 with 7.6 seconds remaining in the game with the Boll Weevils in possession of the basketball. UAM sophomore guard Nate Newell missed a three with 1.2 seconds remaining that would have tied the game. DSU forward Sandrell Spann cleared the rebound as the clock expired.

The Statesmen shot a stellar 59.5 percent from the field (25-0f-42), while UAM connected on 42.4 percent (28-of-66). DSU used solid free throw shooting down the stretch to extend a two point lead to three. The Statesmen connected on 23-of-27 (85 percent) for the game from the charity stripe. DSU out-rebounded UAM 31-30 and forced the Boll Weevils into 14 turnovers.

Billy McDaniel paced the Weevils with 29 points and nine rebounds. Nate Newell added 16 in the loss.

The Statesmen return to action on Monday night versus Southern Arkansas University. Game time is set for 8 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum

 

February 8, 2005

ARKANSAS BAPTIST EDGES DELTASTATE 92-89

CLEVELAND – The Arkansas Baptist College Buffaloes (7-22) edged the Delta State University Statesmen (13-8) 92-89 tonight at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Lonnie Davis’s three-pointer with eleven seconds remaining gave the Buffaloes the victory. DSU’s desperation three fell short as ABC recorded the win.

The Statesmen were led by Jeremy Richardson’s career-high 26 points. Richardson, a junior from Zachary, La., connected on 11-of-12 free throw attempts. Patrick Culver’ added 20 points, 16 rebounds and six blocked shots. The junior from Dothan, Ala. was 8-of-14 from the field and 4-of-5 from the free throw line. Sandrell Spann added 14 points and four boards. Trey Sanders added a game-high seven assists.

Lonnie Davis paced Arkansas Baptist with a career-high 28 points on 7-of-10 shooting from three-point range. Alvin Morris added 23 points in the win. Johntae Markham chipped in 13 points, while Octavious Bailey dropped in 10 points.

The Statesmen shot an impressive 49 percent from the field (26-of-53), but failed to contain ABC’s three point attack. The Buffaloes shot 45 percent for the game (30-of-66), but connected on 13-of-32 three-pointers (41 percent).

DSU dominated the boards, edging the Buffaloes 55-30. The tale-tale stat was turnovers, where Arkansas Baptist forced 25 DSU turnovers. DSU connected on 34-of-48 free throws in the loss, while Arkansas Baptist was 19-of-27.

The Statesmen return to action Saturday, February 12th versus the University of Arkansas-Monticello Boll Weevils. Game time is set for 8 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

 

February 3, 2005

STATESMEN FALL TO HARDING 85-81

SEARCY, Ark. - The Delta State Statesmen battled the hostile environment of Rhoades Field House, but came up on the short end of an 85-81 loss to the Harding Bison. The Statesmen fell to 13-7 overall and 7-3 in the GSC, while Harding improved to 13-7 and 6-3 in the GSC. The loss snapped a six game winning streak.

The first half proved to be very exciting as Matt Hall of Harding scored 23 first half points. The Statesmen led most of the half before succumbing to a scoring clinic put on by Matt Hall in the final minute of regulation. Hall connected on three three-point shots in the waning minute of the first-half to give Harding a nine point lead, 43-34. The Statesmen were led by Colby Harris and Jeremy Richardson with six points a piece. The Statesmen won the battle of the boards, 12-10, while losing the turnover battle 13-7.

The second half was just as action packed, if not more, than the first. The Statesmen came out and cut the lead to two. However, the Bison stepped up to the challenge as Matt Hall scored 14 in the second frame to insure the win. Matt Hall finished with a career-high 37 points.

Patrick Culver led the Statesmen with 19 points. Jeremy Richardson chipped in 17 points and Corey Johnson finished with 12. Trey Sanders finished with nine points and nine assists.

The Statesmen return home Tuesday, February 8 th to the face the Arkansas Baptist College Chargers. Game time is set for 6 and 8 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

 

January 31, 2005

CULVER’S 24 POWERS STATESMEN TO 66-63
WIN OVER REDDIES

CLEVELAND – Patrick Culver’s 24 points powered Delta State University (13-6, 7-2 GSC) to a 66-63 victory over the Reddies of Henderson State University (8-12, 3-6 GSC) tonight at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The Statesmen failed to ice the game from the free throw line, but defended the final shot well to insure the win.

The Statesmen defensively held the Reddies to 46 percent from the field (25-of-55), while connecting on 49 percent of their own shots (26-of-53). Culver added seven rebounds and one block in the win. Corey Johnson added 16 points on 5-of-7 shooting from the field. Trey Sanders and Sandrell Spann added six points each, while Jeremy Richardson and Colby Harris added four points apiece. Marlon McCoy, Karl Nickerson and Karlton Fields rounded out the scoring with two points each.

Dedrick Spooner paced Henderson State with 22 points and nine rebounds. Tyrell Hightower added 15 points, while Tarvoris Uzigwe added 11.

The Statesmen return to action on Thursday at Harding University . The Statesmen and Bison will square off at 8 p.m. at the Rhoades Field House in Searcy , Ark.

 

January 29, 2005

STATESMEN SURVIVE FURIOUS WONDER BOY COMEBACK 89-82

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – The Delta State University Statesmen (12-6, 6-2 GSC) survived a furious second half comeback to defeat the Arkansas Tech University Wonder Boys (9-10, 2-6 GSC) 89-82 at Tucker Coliseum.

The Statesmen led by as many as 18 points in the second half, but the Wonder Boys would find success on the back of Terrance Martin. Martin led all-scorers with 36 points, 20 of which came in the second half comeback. Martin connected on 5-of-12 three point attempts, but missed the biggest shot of the game with 26.7 seconds remaining that would have tied the contest.

The Statesmen placed five players in double-figures led by Marlon McCoy’s 17 points. Karl Nickerson added a career-high 15 points. Patrick Culver added 13 points and eight rebounds, while Jeremy Richardson and Corey Johnson added 11 and 10 points respectively.

The Statesmen shot an impressive 57 percent from the floor (27-of-47) for the game, while holding the Wonder Boys to 46 percent (28-of-61). Arkansas Tech out-rebounded DSU 32-31 and forced 13 Statesmen turnovers.

Arkansas Tech’s Rone Smith added 25 points in the loss.

The Statesmen return to action Monday night versus Henderson State University. Game time is set for 8 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The first 250 DSU fans through the door will receive a Sillers Thrillers t-shirt sponsored by CellularSouth.

 

January 27, 2005

STATESMEN WIN BUZZER BEATER OVER
THE TIGERS 67-65

CLEVELAND -The Delta State University Statesmen claimed a huge conference victory over Ouachita Baptist University tonight 67-65 at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The Statesmen and Tigers were tied at 65 with five seconds remaining when Sandrell Spann connected on a lay-up to give the Statesmen the lead for good 67-65. With the win, the Statesmen improve to 11-6 overall and 5-2 in the GSC, while the Tigers fall to 13-5 overall and 5-2 in the GSC.

The Statesmen shot 57% from the field (24-of-42) for the game, while holding OBU to 40% (21-of-52). The Statesmen placed three players in double figures led by Sandrell Spann’s 16 points and seven rebounds. Trey Sanders added 11 points and shot 7-of-8 from the free throw line down the stretch. Marlon McCoy dropped in 11 points and grabbed four steals.

The Tigers were led in scoring by Kennis Green with 14 points. David Mercer added 11 points and Travis Williams chipped in 10 points.

The Statesmen out-rebounded the Tigers 35-31 and forced 13 OBU turnovers, while committing 17 of their own. DSU also recorded an amazing eight blocked shots in the game.

The Statesmen return to action Saturday at Arkansas Tech University against the Wonder Boys. Game time is set for 8 p.m. at Tucker Coliseum.

 

January 24, 2005

McCOY’S FREE THROWS SEAL STATESMEN VICTORY AT CHRISTIAN BROTHERS 67-63

MEMPHIS , Tenn. – In a game that saw 21 lead changes, the Statesmen prevailed in the waning moments on the back of junior guard Marlon McCoy. McCoy sank four key free throws in the final minute of action to preserve a 67-63 Statesmen victory. Delta State improved to 10-6 overall and 4-2 in the GSC, while Christian Brothers fell to 11-6 and 3-3 in GSC play.

Jeremy Richardson paced the Statesmen with 13 points on 5-of-12 shooting, while Trey Sanders and Marlon McCoy added 12 points each. The Statesmen connected on 44.6 percent of their shots for the game, while turning the ball over only 11 times.

The Statesmen took a 64-63 lead with 50.2 seconds remaining on a driving lay-up by Marlon McCoy. The Statesmen forced 17 CBU turnovers with five coming in the final minute of play.

Jordan Jeffries paced CBU with 17 points and eight rebounds. Jake Bazely added 16 points with Lou Wright and Kevin Weybright adding 12 and 10 points respectively.

DSU was out-rebounded 30-29 by CBU, but grabbed nine offensive rebounds leading to 14 second-chance points.

Delta State returns to the court Thursday, January 27 th versus Ouachita Baptist University . Game time is set for 8 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

January 20, 2005

SANDERS FREE THROWS SEAL 64-60 WIN OVER UCA

CLEVELAND-The Delta State University Statesmen recorded a huge conference win with an upset of the No. 10 University of Central Arkansas Bears 64-60.

The Statesmen (9-6, 3-2 GSC) placed three players in double figures led by Trey Sanders, a 6-3 senior from Jackson, with 15. Jeremy Richardson, a 6-6 junior from Zachary, La., and Marlon McCoy, a 6-2 junior from Baton Rouge, La. chipped in with 11 and 10 points respectively. Sandrell Spann and Patrick Culver brought down seven rebounds a piece.

The Statesmen shot 52% from the field for the game and limited the Bears to 39%.  The Bears (13-4, 3-3 GSC) were led in scoring by Chris Gray and Lamar Grimes who had 19 and 16 points respectively.    

The Statesmen shot 50% from the field in the first half and led 32-28 heading into the locker room.  The Statesmen had a balance of scoring in the half led by McCoy with eight points and Richardson added seven points. Johnson chipped in with six points in the half.   

The Bears shot 39% from the field and were led by Gray with 11 points and Grimes with nine points in the first half.

The Statesmen return to play Monday, January 24th, as they travel to Memphis, Tenn. to take on Christian Brothers University. Game time is scheduled for 8 p.m. at Canale Arena.

January 17, 2005

SPANN’S DOUBLE-DOUBLE LIFTS STATESMEN TO 71-59 VICTORY OVER SAU

MAGNOLIA, Ark. – Sandrell Spann’s 10 points and 10 boards lifted the Delta State University Statesmen (8-6) to a 71-59 victory over the Muleriders of Southern Arkansas University (4-12).

The Statesmen defense held the Muleriders to 38 percent from the field (19-of-50), while DSU shot 48 percent (27-of-56) for the game. Delta State out-rebounded SAU 38-28 and forced 14 Mulerider turnovers leading to 16 DSU points. The Statesmen dominated play in the paint with 34 points to SAU’s 12 points.

DSU’s Jeremy Richardson led all scorers with 22 points. The junior from Zachary , La. grabbed six boards and dished out two assists. It was a season-high for Richardson . Marlon McCoy came off the bench to score nine points and hand out two assists. Colby Harris and Corey Johnson added seven points a piece, while Trey Sanders and Patrick Culver added six points each. Randy Walton rounded out the scoring with four points.

SAU was led by Cedric Davis with 16 points. Joining Davis in double figures were Corey Green with 15 points and Brandon White with 12 points.

The Statesmen return to action Thursday night at Walter Sillers Coliseum as they play host to the University of Central Arkansas . Game time is set for 8 p.m.

 

January 10, 2005

STATESMEN CAGE CARDINALS 110-55

CLEVELAND- The Delta State University Statesmen (7-5) placed six players in double figures en route to a 110-55 victory over Crichton College (1-13) tonight at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

Marlon McCoy led the way for the Statesmen with 20 points and nine assists. Joining McCoy in double figures was Jeremy Richardson (17), Trey Sanders (16), Sandrell Spann (14), Corey Johnson and Colby Harris added 11 points each.

The Statesmen dished out a school-record 33 assists in the game led by McCoy’s nine. Sanders dropped off six assists and Jeremy Richardson and Corey Johnson handed out five each.

The Cardinals placed three players in double figures. Richard Nicholson led Crichton with 17 points, while Kenny Thompson and Dion Barry added 12 and 11 points respectively.

“Our defense played exceptionally well and our offense responded to the call in the first half,” stated DSU Head Coach Steve Rives. “The second half allowed us to stretch our bench and get some serious minutes for our guys.”

The Statesmen shot 68 percent from the field and 54 percent from three point range in the first half to propel them to a 61-23 halftime lead. The Cardinals struggled from the field shooting just 23.3 percent. Nothing changed in the second half as CC shot 31.4 percent, while the Statesmen connected on 50 percent of their shots. The Statesmen also forced 19 Crichton turnovers. Delta State out-rebounded Crichton 53-35 for the game.

Delta State returns to Gulf South Conference action this Thursday at the University of Arkansas-Monticello . The Statesmen face the Boll Weevils at 8 p.m. at Steeleman Field House in Monticello , Ark.

 

January 6, 2005

STATESMEN SEND BISON ROAMING 87-73

CLEVELAND-The Delta State University Statesmen (6-5, 1-1 GSC) had five players in double figures led by Trey Sanders’ 17 in an 87-73 win against Harding University (7-6, 0-1 GSC). Joining Sanders in double figures was Jeremy Richardson and Colby Harris (15 each), Corey Johnson (13), and Marlon McCoy (12).

The Bison were led by Lonnie Smith with 21 points and one board. The Bison shot 42 percent for the game and caused 25 DSU turnovers. However, the Statesmen were able to connect on 57 percent of their shots and out-rebounded Harding by 17 (44-27).

Delta State led by as many as 16 and took a 43-35 half-time lead to the locker room.

The Statesmen return to action on Monday as DSU plays host to Crichton College. Game time is set for 7 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

 

JANUARY 5, 2005

STATESMEN LOSE SQUEAKER 63-61 AT HSU

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – Trey Sanders’ three-point shot at the buzzer would not fall, as the Reddies (5-6, 1-0 GSC) downed the Statesmen (5-5, 0-1 GSC) in the Gulf South Conference opener for both schools.

Delta State took a 30-26 lead into the locker room at half-time, but could not stop Tarvoris Uzigwe when it counted. The senior from Little Rock , Ark. connected on three three-pointers in the second half to surge HSU past DSU.

Corey Johnson paced Delta State with 21 points and four rebounds. Johnson was the only Statesmen to score in double figures. Patrick Culver and Trey Sanders dropped in eight points a piece, while Jeremy Richardson added seven points.

Tyrell Hightower scored a team-high 17 points for Henderson State in the win.

DSU shot 42 percent for the game and forced 16 turnovers in the loss. HSU connected on 39 percent of their shots, but shot 16-of-21 from the free throw line to earn the win.

The Statesmen return to the court this Thursday against Harding University . Game time is set for 8 p.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum.

JANUARY 3, 2005

DELTA STATE TO OPEN CONFERENCE PLAY ON THE ROAD AT HENDERSON STATE

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – The Delta State University men’s and women’s basketball teams open Gulf South Conference play tonight at Henderson State University. The Lady Statesmen (7-3) face the No. 23 Lady Reddies (8-5) at 6p.m. , while the Statesmen (5-4) are scheduled to play the Reddies (4-6) at 8 p.m. at the Duke Wells Athletic Center in Arkadelphia , Ark.

The Lady Statesmen enter play tonight on a two game winning streak. DSU downed Albany State 76-66 and Kentucky State 57-37 in the first annual Margaret Wade Classic December 29-30, 2004 . “This tournament was very big for us. Our ladies worked hard all week and I expect it to carryover into tonight’s game with Henderson State ,” stated Delta State head Sandra Rushing.

The Henderson State University Lady Reddies enter tonight’s game as one of the nation’s top programs. Coach Jeff Caldwell guided HSU to the 2004 NCAA Division II Final Four and has the Lady Reddies poised to return this season. HSU comes into the contest ranked No. 23 in the latest Women’s Basketball Coaches Association/USA Today DII Top 25 Poll. The Lady Reddies dropped their last game 66-65 to Texas A&M-Commerce on December 31, 2004 .

Tonight’s game marks the 26 th meeting between these Gulf South Conference foes. The Lady Statesmen lead the all-time series record 17-8. DSU and HSU split four contests in 2003-04.

The men’s game features two of the top programs in the Gulf South Conference. The Reddies and Statesmen have finished No. 1 and No. 2 respectively in the Western Division over the past few years. The game also marks the 33 rd meeting between the Reddies and Statesmen. Henderson State leads the all-time series 17-15. HSU claimed both contests in 2003-04.

The Statesmen are on quite a roll headed into tonight’s game, as DSU has claimed three straight games with wins over Ohio Southern 110-75, Oakwood College 99-90, and Bellarmine University 98-84. “Our guys have really played hard the last three weeks. I hope that continues tonight at HSU,” stated DSU head coach Steve Rives.

Henderson State is coming off a 23-7 season in 2003-04 and returns a solid corps of players off that squad. The Reddies (4-6) record is deceptive because they have played one of the nation’s toughest Division II schedules. Rives stated, “It’s always tough to play the No. 1 ranked opponent (in your league) on the road and on their floor for your opening game.” Rives added, “Our scouting reports show them as talented as ever! They have a 7-footer, four 6-8 forwards and a returning All-American guard. They are as good as ever. “

The Reddies are led by 6-5 forward Terrell Hightower. Hightower is averaging a team-high 13.6 points per game and leads the team in steals. HSU senior guard Tavoris Uzigwe is a returning All-American and is amongst the NCAA (All-Divisons) career three-pointers made leaders. HSU downed Tuskegee in their last game 87-55.

Game times are set for 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the Duke Wells Health, Physical Education & Recreation Center in Arkadelphia , Ark.

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