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Sunday, December 8, 2013
Week 15: SWAC Football Championship & Playoff ScoreCard
Saturday, December 7, 2013
The Toyota SWAC Football Championship
Southern U. 34, Jackson State 27, 2 O.T., Houston, Texas
Highlights » (9-4, 7-2 SWAC), (8-4, 8-1 SWAC)
2nd Round FCS Playoffs (BOLD: Winners)
Fordham 28 (12-2, 0-0 Patriot) at Towson 48 (11-2, 6-2 CAA) Highlights » Watch Replay
Coastal Carolina 42 (12-2, 4-1 Big South) at Montana 35 (10-3, 6-2 Big Sky) Highlights » Watch Replay
New Hampshire 41 (9-4, 6-2 CAA) at Maine (10-3, 7-1 CAA) 27 Watch Replay
Tennessee State 10 (10-4, 6-2 OVC) at Eastern Illinois 51 (12-1, 8-0 OVC) Highlights »Watch Replay
Furman 7 (8-6, 6-2 Southern) at North Dakota State 38 (12-0, 8-0 MVC) Highlights » Watch Replay
South Dakota State 17 (9-5, 5-3 MVC) at Eastern Washington 41 (11-2, 8-0 Big Sky) Highlights » Watch Replay
Jacksonville State 31 (11-3, 5-3 OVC) at McNeese State 10 (10-3, 6-1 Southland) Watch Replay
Sam Houston State 29 (9-5, 4-3 Southland) at Southeastern Louisiana 30 (11-2, 7-0 Southland) Highlights » Watch Replay
NCAA Division II Football Championship Quarterfinals
West Chester 28 (13-1 PSAC) at Shepherd 7 (11-1 MEC)
North Alabama 39 (10-3 GSC) at Lenior-Rhyne 42 (12-1 SAC)
West Texas A&M 28 (11-3 LSC) at Grand Valley State 35 (12-2 GLIAC)
St. Cloud State 21 (12-2 NSIC) at Northwest Missouri State 59 (13-0 MIAA) Photos
Southern University wins SWAC title with senior Dray Joseph, Lee Doss leading the way
HOUSTON, Texas -- With a wink and a nod between two good friends, Southern University regained its spot atop SWAC football. And in doing so, quarterback Dray Joseph and wide receiver Lee Doss, both seniors, scripted the perfect ending to their careers as Jaguars.
Joseph passed 16 yards to Doss for a touchdown in the second overtime that turned out to be the game-winner in Southern’s 34-27 SWAC Championship victory against Jackson State at Reliant Stadium here Saturday afternoon before 38,985 fans.
They had to sweat the final result for a few minutes. But the Jaguars defense cemented the victory when Jackson State failed to score on fourth-and-goal at the Southern 5 on its second overtime possession.
The Jaguars (9-4), which hadn’t recorded a winning season since 2009 before this year and hadn’t won a SWAC title in 10 years, celebrated on the floor of Reliant Stadium with ...
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Saturday, December 7, 2013
Tennessee State Tigers' Season Ends at Eastern Illinois
CHARLESTON, Illinois -- Frigid temperatures and a relentless Panther attack ended the Tennessee State football team’s season on Saturday with a 51-10 loss at Eastern Illinois in the second round of the NCAA Division I Football Playoffs.
The Tigers could not overcome a 37-point halftime deficit and surrendered 553 yards, 313 of which came on the ground.
Eastern Illinois’s 51 points were the most by a TSU opponent since Murray State scored the same total on Nov. 9, 2002.
The Tigers mustered 287 yards of total offense and redshirt junior quarterback Michael German finished 25-of-38 for 242 yards with zero scores and zero interceptions.
EIU was led by senior quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo who completed 17-of-26 passes for 240 yards, three touchdowns and one pick. Running back Shepard Little led the Panther rushing attack with 12 carries for 184 yards and two scores.
The Panthers received the ball to start the game and marched 81 yards down the field in 10 plays for a touchdown. Garoppolo was 5-of-5 for 68 yards, but it was running back Taylor Duncan who made into the end zone from three-yards out.
TSU was driving on its first possession, but German fumbled a snap at the EIU 44-yard line and the Panthers recovered. Eastern Illinois immediately went deep on the next play and Erik Lora caught a 49-yard pass. Four plays later, EIU kicked a 25-yard field goal and led, 10-0, with eight minutes left in the first period.
The Tennessee State offense sputtered on its next series, but EIU’s did not. Garoppolo found Lora on a crossing pattern and Lora did the rest for a 20-yard touchdown. The extra point attempt hit the upright, but EIU still led, 16-0, at the 4:41 mark in opening stanza.
EIU added a touchdown with 10 minutes to go before halftime, returned a blocked punt for another score with two minutes to play and ended the half with a 4-yard passing touchdown, making the score 37-0 at halftime.
TSU was out gained, 340 yards to 90 during the first 30 minutes and only averaged 1.1 yards per rush.
The Tigers fumbled four times in the first half, losing two, missed a field goal and had a punt blocked for the first time all season.
The Panthers scored a quick touchdown to start the third quarter before TSU finally got on the scoreboard with a seven-yard rushing touchdown by Tim Broughton on its second possession of the half.
Broughton’s run capped an 11-play, 63-yard drive in which German was 5-of-5 for 57 yards. The Big Blue touchdown made the score 44-7 with 7:28 to go in the third stanza.
Eastern Illinois was about to score another touchdown right before the end of the quarter, but the Tennessee State defense stopped the Panthers twice at the one-yard line to force a turnover on downs.
The stop proved to benefit the TSU offense, as German engineered a 74-yard drive that culminated in a 42-yard field goal by Jamin Godfrey. Ryan Mitchell had two 20-yard receptions to key the scoring series.
Mitchell finished the day with six grabs for 76 yards.
The Panthers struck right back with an 80-yard touchdown run by Little on their very next play to make the score, 51-10, with 9:46 to play.
Little’s touchdown proved to be the final points of the game, and Tennessee State fell to 10-4 on the season.
Andrew Taylor led the TSU defense with a career-high 11 tackles and recorded the team’s only sack of the game. De’Ante Saunders also had an interception in the second quarter, but TSU gave the ball back via a fumble two plays later.
Eastern Illinois will travel to Towson for an Elite Eight contest on Dec. 14 while TSU will resume team activities this spring.
Photo Gallery (by Sandy King) -- Courtesy EIU Athletics
COURTESY TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Southern, Jackson State set for title-game rematch
BATON ROUGE, Louisiana -- Ten weeks ago, the Southern football team unhappily walked to midfield at A.W. Mumford Stadium.
The Jaguars were congratulating Jackson State on a hard-fought 19-14 win that was typical of games between the rivals. But both sides were already thinking they might not have seen the last of the other in 2013.
“A lot of their coaches were shaking our hands, and a lot of their players were shaking our hands and saying it would be great if we could do this again,” Southern coach Dawson Odums said.
In the home locker room, Odums tried to boost his players’ spirits by telling them that if they stayed focus and kept improving, they could get a second chance.
“We’re blessed to be in position to do it again,” he said.
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The Jaguars were congratulating Jackson State on a hard-fought 19-14 win that was typical of games between the rivals. But both sides were already thinking they might not have seen the last of the other in 2013.
“A lot of their coaches were shaking our hands, and a lot of their players were shaking our hands and saying it would be great if we could do this again,” Southern coach Dawson Odums said.
In the home locker room, Odums tried to boost his players’ spirits by telling them that if they stayed focus and kept improving, they could get a second chance.
“We’re blessed to be in position to do it again,” he said.
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Virginia Union dismisses AD/football coach Michael Bailey
Michael Bailey |
The school didn’t issue a formal announcement, but Bailey confirmed his departure in a brief afternoon conversation with the Times-Dispatch. He called the move “a decision the president (Dr. Claude G. Perkins) made.”
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“That’s how people do business,” Bailey said. “You have to roll with it.”
Questions asked of Virginia Union’s sports information department were deflected to university relations. Calls to university relations reached only an answering machine.
Bailey, 22-28 in five seasons on Lombardy Street, said he is proud of his work teaching his players life lessons and helping them graduate. He said 18 football players graduated last year.
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NSU needs no motivation against Bethune-Cookman
NORFOLK, Virginia -- For all the great expectations and lofty postseason goals driving Norfolk State, it's unlikely that its players will be any more motivated all season than they will be today.
A clear shot at revenge will do that.
The Spartans will have payback at the front of their minds when Bethune-Cookman visits Echols Hall at 6 p.m. It was the Wildcats, after all, who stunningly ended NSU's potential run to the NCAA tournament last season with a 70-68 overtime upset in the MEAC tournament quarterfinals.
The Spartans were relegated to an NIT loss at Virginia after going 16-0 in the MEAC during the regular season. And they were left stewing for another shot at Bethune-Cookman.
"I'm looking forward to it a lot," said senior guard Malcolm Hawkins, a Norview High product who leads NSU with 18.9 points per game. "As soon as we lost last year and the schedule came out, I circled that game."
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A clear shot at revenge will do that.
The Spartans will have payback at the front of their minds when Bethune-Cookman visits Echols Hall at 6 p.m. It was the Wildcats, after all, who stunningly ended NSU's potential run to the NCAA tournament last season with a 70-68 overtime upset in the MEAC tournament quarterfinals.
The Spartans were relegated to an NIT loss at Virginia after going 16-0 in the MEAC during the regular season. And they were left stewing for another shot at Bethune-Cookman.
"I'm looking forward to it a lot," said senior guard Malcolm Hawkins, a Norview High product who leads NSU with 18.9 points per game. "As soon as we lost last year and the schedule came out, I circled that game."
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TSU Lady Tigers Ground Ospreys in, 67-51, Road Win
JACKSONVILLE, Florida -- The Tennessee State University women’s basketball team bounced back to defeat the University of North Florida, 67-51, Friday night in UNF Arena.
Tennessee State (2-7) was led by Chelsea Hudson’s 24 points while Rachel Allen had 16 points and five assists. I’mani Davis recorded a team-best 10 rebounds to go with nine points, just shy of a double-double.
Amber Robinson led North Florida (2-7) with 11 points as Destinee Smith added 10.
In the first half, TSU jumped out to a 10-3 lead following back-to-back three-pointers from Chelsea Hudson and I’mani Davis. Over the next two minutes, UNF responded with a rally to pull within one.
With 13:50 on the clock, a bucket by Rachel Allen sparked a 10-0 run that put TSU on top, 20-9, halfway through the first frame. The Lady Tigers went without a score for over two minutes and allowed the Ospreys cut the deficit down to single digits.
Another spurt, capped by a steal and a break-away lay-up from Davis made the score, 28-18, in favor of TSU before Allen nailed her second triple of the contest to extend the advantage to, 33-20.
The Lady Tigers led 35-24 at halftime.
Allen had 10 first-half points while TSU only committed six turnovers in the stanza.
In the second half, UNF cut the deficit down to single digits before TSU extended its lead up to 45-30 following six straight points from Chelsea Hudson. Over the next several possessions, however, the Ospreys outscored TSU, 14-3, to shrink the Lady Tiger lead down to just four points, 48-44.
Hudson connected in the paint to end TSU’s scoring drought and made the score, 50-44.
Two free-throws by Davis and another bucket from Hudson put the Lady Tigers back on top, 54-44, with 7:18 remaining.
The Ospreys once again chopped the lead down to single digits but consecutive three-pointers from Rachel Allen gave TSU a, 62-49, lead and put the game out of reach with 2:17 remaining.
TSU shot 39.1 percent (25-of-64) from the field, including 34.8 percent (8-of-23) from three-point range. The Lady Tigers only committed 12 turnovers and held the advantage in rebounds, 44-37, assists, 13-7, and steals, 10-6.
Tennessee State will have a break before returning to action on Sunday, Dec. 15 at home against Martin Methodist College. Game time is slated for a 2:30 p.m. start in the Gentry Center.
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Week 15: SWAC Football Championship and Second Round FCS Playoff Games
Saturday, December 7, 2013
The Toyota SWAC Football Championship
Jackson State (8-3) vs. Southern (8-4), Houston, Texas, Reliant Stadium, 2 p.m., TV: ESPNU
2nd Round FCS Playoffs
Fordham (12-1) at Towson (10-2) at Towson, Md., 1 p.m., TV: (ESPN3/GamePlan)
Coastal Carolina (11-2) at Montana (10-2) at Missoula, Mont., 2 p.m. (ESPN3/GamePlan)
New Hampshire (8-4) at Maine (10-2) at Orono, Maine, 2 p.m. (ESPN3/GamePlan)
Tennessee State (10-3) at Eastern Illinois (11-1) at Charleston, Ill., 2 p.m. (ESPN3/GamePlan)
Furman (8-5) at North Dakota State (11-0) at Fargo, N.D., 3:30 p.m. (ESPN3/GamePlan)
South Dakota State (9-4) at Eastern Washington (10-2) at Cheney, Wash., 4 p.m. (ESPN3/GamePlan)
Jacksonville State (10-3) at McNeese State (10-2) at Lake Charles, La., 7 p.m. (ESPN3/GamePlan)
Sam Houston State (9-4) at Southeastern Louisiana (10-2) at Hammond, La., 8 p.m. (ESPN3/GamePlan)
ALL GAME TIMES ARE STATED IN EASTERN TIME ZONE
The Toyota SWAC Football Championship
Jackson State (8-3) vs. Southern (8-4), Houston, Texas, Reliant Stadium, 2 p.m., TV: ESPNU
2nd Round FCS Playoffs
Fordham (12-1) at Towson (10-2) at Towson, Md., 1 p.m., TV: (ESPN3/GamePlan)
Coastal Carolina (11-2) at Montana (10-2) at Missoula, Mont., 2 p.m. (ESPN3/GamePlan)
New Hampshire (8-4) at Maine (10-2) at Orono, Maine, 2 p.m. (ESPN3/GamePlan)
Tennessee State (10-3) at Eastern Illinois (11-1) at Charleston, Ill., 2 p.m. (ESPN3/GamePlan)
Furman (8-5) at North Dakota State (11-0) at Fargo, N.D., 3:30 p.m. (ESPN3/GamePlan)
South Dakota State (9-4) at Eastern Washington (10-2) at Cheney, Wash., 4 p.m. (ESPN3/GamePlan)
Jacksonville State (10-3) at McNeese State (10-2) at Lake Charles, La., 7 p.m. (ESPN3/GamePlan)
Sam Houston State (9-4) at Southeastern Louisiana (10-2) at Hammond, La., 8 p.m. (ESPN3/GamePlan)
ALL GAME TIMES ARE STATED IN EASTERN TIME ZONE
SWAC Releases 2013 All Conference Football Teams
Dray Joseph (Southern), Arnold Walker (Alcorn State), Jer-ryan Harris (Arkansas-Pine Bluff), Kourtney Berry (Alabama State) and Javancy Jones (Jackson State) lead the SWAC's 2013 postseason accolades
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Southern University, Alcorn State University, Jackson State University and University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff received the four major 2013 Southwestern Athletic Conference postseason football awards in voting conducted by league head coaches and sports information directors. The conference made the announcement on Friday prior to the 2013 Toyota SWAC Football Championship on Saturday, Dec. 7, at Reliant Stadium in Houston.
Southern senior quarterback Dray Joseph and Alcorn State senior running back Arnold Walker were named Co-Offensive Player of the Year. Arkansas-Pine Bluff senior linebacker Jer-ryan Harris was tabbed Defensive Player of the Year while Alabama State's redshirt freshman linebacker Kourtney Berry landed the Newcomer of the Year award. Rounding out the postseason accolades, Jackson State defensive lineman Javancy Jones was tagged Freshman of the Year.
Alcorn State and Alabama State led the way with 10 selections apiece with both landing five players on the first team. Jackson State was second with eight picks with four receiving first-team honors. The count includes Alabama A&M and Prairie View A&M with six apiece, Southern and Texas Southern each with three, and Mississippi Valley State posting both selections on the first team. Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Grambling State close out the list with a player on this year's postseason squad.
Joseph led Southern to an 8-4 overall record (7-2 SWAC) and its first Western Division title since 2004. He helped SU post its first winning season since 2009 becoming the school's all-time leader in passing yards on Nov. 16 vs. Clark Atlanta. Joseph finished out the season with a league best, 3,236 passing yards, becoming the second quarterback in school history to throw for more than 3,000 yards in a single season. He leads the SWAC in passing yards per game (269.7) and passing touchdowns (27). Joseph passed for over 200 or more yards in 10-of-12 games during the regular season.
Walker capped his collegiate career leading Alcorn State and the SWAC in rushing yards (1,191) and rushing touchdowns (16). He averaged 5.3 yards per carry and led the SWAC averaging 99.2 rushing yards per game. He finished second in the SWAC in scoring (96) and ranks fourth in the conference in all-purpose yards (1,368). Walker claimed Alcorn State’s 30-year old all-time career rushing record with 2,806 yards. He also claimed the record for most points scored in a season. For the year, he rushed for at least 100 yards in 7-of-12 games recording 100 or more yards in six straight contests. He helped power Alcorn State to a 9-3 record (7-2 SWAC), the Braves' first winning season since 2006 and nine-win campaign since 1984.
Harris anchored UAPB's defense finishing atop the SWAC in tackles with 107 (56 solo). He currently sits sixth in the FCS. To close out the season, he gathered three tackles for loss (7 yards), one quarterback hurry, and a fumble recovery returned for a 37-yard touchdown.
In his first season on the field for JSU, Jones recorded 48 tackles (21 solo) to go along with a team high, 12 tackles for loss. He captured five sacks, two pass deflections, a forced fumble, blocked kick and a defensive touchdown (punt block recovery). Early in the year, he was nominated for the Jerry Rice Award. (FCS Freshman of the Year).
In his first collegiate season after responding from an injury that applied a redshirt year, Berry posted a team-leading 107 total tackles (57 solo, 48 assists) in the 11 games. In addition, he complemented his stops with seven sacks and 11.5 tackles for a loss. He also finished the year with an interception, two fumble recoveries, three pass break ups and two quarterback hurries. Berry was named the SWAC Defensive Player of the Week once, the league's Newcomer of the Week twice, while spotlighting a defense that finished second in the SWAC in points allowed (25.8). He was also selected as a nominee for the Jerry Rice Award (FCS Freshman of the Year.
Joseph, Walker, Harris, Berry and Jones join the 2013 All-SWAC Football First Team that includes: running back Isaiah Crowell (Alabama State), offensive linemen - Issac Sampson (Alcorn State), Dillon Bonnet (Prairie View A&M), Edmond Davis (Alabama State), Jordan Arthur (Jackson State), Johnathan Smith (Jackson State), wide receivers - Deandre Cooper (Prairie View A&M), Lee Doss (Southern) tight end Johnathan Dorsey (Alabama A&M), place kicker Haiden McCraney (Alcorn State), punter Bobby Wenzig (Alabama State) return specialist Tavoris Doss (Alcorn State), defensive lineman Derrick Billups (Alabama State), Amir Bloom (Texas Southern), Robert Simpson (Mississippi Valley State), linebacker Robert Nelson (Alabama A&M) and defensive backs Qua Cox (Jackson State), Avery Boykin (Mississippi Valley State), Brandon Thomas (Texas Southern) and C.J. Morgan (Alco
COURTESY SWAC.ORG
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Southern University, Alcorn State University, Jackson State University and University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff received the four major 2013 Southwestern Athletic Conference postseason football awards in voting conducted by league head coaches and sports information directors. The conference made the announcement on Friday prior to the 2013 Toyota SWAC Football Championship on Saturday, Dec. 7, at Reliant Stadium in Houston.
Southern senior quarterback Dray Joseph and Alcorn State senior running back Arnold Walker were named Co-Offensive Player of the Year. Arkansas-Pine Bluff senior linebacker Jer-ryan Harris was tabbed Defensive Player of the Year while Alabama State's redshirt freshman linebacker Kourtney Berry landed the Newcomer of the Year award. Rounding out the postseason accolades, Jackson State defensive lineman Javancy Jones was tagged Freshman of the Year.
Alcorn State and Alabama State led the way with 10 selections apiece with both landing five players on the first team. Jackson State was second with eight picks with four receiving first-team honors. The count includes Alabama A&M and Prairie View A&M with six apiece, Southern and Texas Southern each with three, and Mississippi Valley State posting both selections on the first team. Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Grambling State close out the list with a player on this year's postseason squad.
Joseph led Southern to an 8-4 overall record (7-2 SWAC) and its first Western Division title since 2004. He helped SU post its first winning season since 2009 becoming the school's all-time leader in passing yards on Nov. 16 vs. Clark Atlanta. Joseph finished out the season with a league best, 3,236 passing yards, becoming the second quarterback in school history to throw for more than 3,000 yards in a single season. He leads the SWAC in passing yards per game (269.7) and passing touchdowns (27). Joseph passed for over 200 or more yards in 10-of-12 games during the regular season.
Walker capped his collegiate career leading Alcorn State and the SWAC in rushing yards (1,191) and rushing touchdowns (16). He averaged 5.3 yards per carry and led the SWAC averaging 99.2 rushing yards per game. He finished second in the SWAC in scoring (96) and ranks fourth in the conference in all-purpose yards (1,368). Walker claimed Alcorn State’s 30-year old all-time career rushing record with 2,806 yards. He also claimed the record for most points scored in a season. For the year, he rushed for at least 100 yards in 7-of-12 games recording 100 or more yards in six straight contests. He helped power Alcorn State to a 9-3 record (7-2 SWAC), the Braves' first winning season since 2006 and nine-win campaign since 1984.
Harris anchored UAPB's defense finishing atop the SWAC in tackles with 107 (56 solo). He currently sits sixth in the FCS. To close out the season, he gathered three tackles for loss (7 yards), one quarterback hurry, and a fumble recovery returned for a 37-yard touchdown.
In his first season on the field for JSU, Jones recorded 48 tackles (21 solo) to go along with a team high, 12 tackles for loss. He captured five sacks, two pass deflections, a forced fumble, blocked kick and a defensive touchdown (punt block recovery). Early in the year, he was nominated for the Jerry Rice Award. (FCS Freshman of the Year).
In his first collegiate season after responding from an injury that applied a redshirt year, Berry posted a team-leading 107 total tackles (57 solo, 48 assists) in the 11 games. In addition, he complemented his stops with seven sacks and 11.5 tackles for a loss. He also finished the year with an interception, two fumble recoveries, three pass break ups and two quarterback hurries. Berry was named the SWAC Defensive Player of the Week once, the league's Newcomer of the Week twice, while spotlighting a defense that finished second in the SWAC in points allowed (25.8). He was also selected as a nominee for the Jerry Rice Award (FCS Freshman of the Year.
Joseph, Walker, Harris, Berry and Jones join the 2013 All-SWAC Football First Team that includes: running back Isaiah Crowell (Alabama State), offensive linemen - Issac Sampson (Alcorn State), Dillon Bonnet (Prairie View A&M), Edmond Davis (Alabama State), Jordan Arthur (Jackson State), Johnathan Smith (Jackson State), wide receivers - Deandre Cooper (Prairie View A&M), Lee Doss (Southern) tight end Johnathan Dorsey (Alabama A&M), place kicker Haiden McCraney (Alcorn State), punter Bobby Wenzig (Alabama State) return specialist Tavoris Doss (Alcorn State), defensive lineman Derrick Billups (Alabama State), Amir Bloom (Texas Southern), Robert Simpson (Mississippi Valley State), linebacker Robert Nelson (Alabama A&M) and defensive backs Qua Cox (Jackson State), Avery Boykin (Mississippi Valley State), Brandon Thomas (Texas Southern) and C.J. Morgan (Alco
COURTESY SWAC.ORG
Friday, December 6, 2013
XU's Echebelem is a Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete
Chinedu Echebelem |
Echebelem is one of 391 to receive the honor this season and the only one from the GCAC. Echebelem is the second XU volleyball player to receive the honor — Danielle Jones in 2010 was the first.
Student-athletes are nominated by their institution, must maintain a minimum grade-point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and must have achieved junior academic status to qualify for Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete.
Echebelem is a junior from Dallas and a graduate of Duncanville High School. The chemistry/pre-medical major was third on the Gold Nuggets this year with 271 kills and 299 digs and second in aces with 37. She has 702 kills, 718 digs, 86 blocks and 75 aces in three seasons and was MVP of the 2012 GCAC Tournament, first-team All-GCAC in 2011 and second-team All-GCAC in 2012. Xavier is 43-0 against GCAC opponents — 32-0 in the regular season, 11-0 in the tournament — during Echebelem's tenure.
Xavier was 26-8 in 2013, winning GCAC regular-season and tournament championships for the third consecutive year and qualifying for a third straight NAIA National Championship. The Gold Nuggets set school records for season victories and consecutive victories (20).
By Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
XULAATHLETICS
Alcorn State under review for financial discrepancies
LORMAN, Mississippi — Alcorn State University’s chief financial officer has resigned amid an investigation of alleged financial problems at the school.
Mississippi Higher Education Commissioner Hank Bounds tells The Natchez Democrat that (Dr.) Betty Roberts resigned Thursday.
Bounds says in a statement that his office has received reports of financial discrepancies and the College Boards staff is reviewing those reports.
Bounds declined to elaborate.
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Mississippi Higher Education Commissioner Hank Bounds tells The Natchez Democrat that (Dr.) Betty Roberts resigned Thursday.
Bounds says in a statement that his office has received reports of financial discrepancies and the College Boards staff is reviewing those reports.
Bounds declined to elaborate.
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Southern University QB Dray Joseph, WR Lee Doss named to All-SWAC squad
Houston, Texas -- Southern University senior quarterback Dray Joseph’s outstanding 2013 season was rewarded Friday when he was named the SWAC’s Co-Offensive Player of the Year along with Alcorn State running back Arnold Walker. Joseph is one of only two Southern players on the 2013 All-SWAC first team, including senior wide receiver Lee Doss.
The squad is selected by the league’s coaches.
The Jaguars had one player on the second team, offensive lineman Anthony Mosley.
Joseph, from West St. John, completed 244 of 391 passes this season for 3,236 yards and 27 touchdowns. He led the SWAC in passing yards. He completed 62 percent of his passes and threw 11 interceptions.
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The squad is selected by the league’s coaches.
The Jaguars had one player on the second team, offensive lineman Anthony Mosley.
Joseph, from West St. John, completed 244 of 391 passes this season for 3,236 yards and 27 touchdowns. He led the SWAC in passing yards. He completed 62 percent of his passes and threw 11 interceptions.
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JSU Lady Tigers Cruise to a 72-50 Victory Over New Orleans
JACKSON, Mississippi -- The Jackson State University Women's basketball team cruised to a 72-50 victory over the University of New Orleans Thursday evening at the Lee E. Williams Athletic & Assembly Center.
With the win, the Lady Tigers improved to a 2-6 overall record.
JSU led from the opening tip and never looked back. The Lady Tigers shot 46 percent from the field; while shooting 60 percent from the line and 50 percent from behind the arch. Jackson State led by as much as 28 points at the 12 minute mark in the second half.
JSU had three Lady Tigers in double-digits on the evening. Junior guard Dominique Brothern led th way with 14 points; while junior forwards Kameron Jones and Ayanna Hardy-Fuller tallied 13 for the contest. Hardy-Fuller added nine boards to lead all-rebounders.
UNO was led by Jewel Angelo, who recorded 12 points in the contest.
The Lady Tigers return to action Sunday, December 15 when they travel to Bowling Green, Ky. to face Western Kentucky University at 2 p.m.
Follow the Lady Tigers on facebook @/JStateTigers, on twitter @/JStateTigers and on our official website at www.jsutigers.com.
vs. New Orleans
COURTESY JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS
With the win, the Lady Tigers improved to a 2-6 overall record.
JSU led from the opening tip and never looked back. The Lady Tigers shot 46 percent from the field; while shooting 60 percent from the line and 50 percent from behind the arch. Jackson State led by as much as 28 points at the 12 minute mark in the second half.
JSU had three Lady Tigers in double-digits on the evening. Junior guard Dominique Brothern led th way with 14 points; while junior forwards Kameron Jones and Ayanna Hardy-Fuller tallied 13 for the contest. Hardy-Fuller added nine boards to lead all-rebounders.
UNO was led by Jewel Angelo, who recorded 12 points in the contest.
The Lady Tigers return to action Sunday, December 15 when they travel to Bowling Green, Ky. to face Western Kentucky University at 2 p.m.
Follow the Lady Tigers on facebook @/JStateTigers, on twitter @/JStateTigers and on our official website at www.jsutigers.com.
vs. New Orleans
COURTESY JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS
Grice and Sparkman lead FAMU Lady Rattlers In 83-62 Win
NORFOLK, Virginia – The Florida A&M Lady Rattlers (6-3, 1-0 MEAC) opened MEAC play with an 83-62 win over the Norfolk State Spartans (2-5, 0-1 MEAC) in Norfolk. The game was highlighted by runs, where the Lady Rattlers would eventually overwhelm the Spartans in the second half.
Jasmine Grice poured in a season and game-high 30 points on 8-of-8 shooting from the field, while shooting a perfect 12-for-12 from the free throw line. Kimberly Sparkman had her most productive outing of the season, scoring 20 points on 7-of-12 shooting from the field, including 4-of-8 from the three point line.
Taneka Rubin would also score in double figures, as she poured in 17 points, also going perfect from the free throw line making all six shots she attempted.
Jamie Foreman, again led the Lady Rattlers on the board with 10 rebounds. Grice grabbed nine, while Rubin nabbed seven.
NSU had a trio of Spartans to score exactly 16 points. Rae Corbo, Ebony Brown and Rachel Gordon each matched the other in a balanced scoring effort. Gordon would also grab 18 rebounds, for a double-double.
COURTESY NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
The effort from the Lady Rattlers, coming off a flat performance against Stetson, was a positive one for coach LeDawn Gibson. “I was happy with the way our team came back after a tough stretch.
Your goal every year is to make sure you are ready for conference play and starting off with a win is always a positive. We now have to prepare for Hampton on Saturday, and we will need this type of team effort to win on their home court,” Gibson said.
The Lady Rattlers never trailed the contest, and ended with their largest lead of 21 points, fueled by a 31-10 run coming down the stretch. FAMU got contributions deep into their bench as seven Lady Rattlers scored on the day and 10 grabbed at least one rebound. NSU tied the game as they came out on fire in the second half, but the Lady Rattlers used a scoring spurts to distance themselves from the Spartans.
FAMU shot 36.6 percent from the floor and 36.4 from behind the three-point line. They also made the most of their free throw opportunities shooting 88.5 percent from the charity stripe.
The Lady Rattlers will play the Hampton Lady Pirates on Saturday at 4 p.m. at the Hampton University Convocation Center.
COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION RELEASE
Jasmine Grice poured in a season and game-high 30 points on 8-of-8 shooting from the field, while shooting a perfect 12-for-12 from the free throw line. Kimberly Sparkman had her most productive outing of the season, scoring 20 points on 7-of-12 shooting from the field, including 4-of-8 from the three point line.
Taneka Rubin would also score in double figures, as she poured in 17 points, also going perfect from the free throw line making all six shots she attempted.
Jamie Foreman, again led the Lady Rattlers on the board with 10 rebounds. Grice grabbed nine, while Rubin nabbed seven.
NSU had a trio of Spartans to score exactly 16 points. Rae Corbo, Ebony Brown and Rachel Gordon each matched the other in a balanced scoring effort. Gordon would also grab 18 rebounds, for a double-double.
COURTESY NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
The effort from the Lady Rattlers, coming off a flat performance against Stetson, was a positive one for coach LeDawn Gibson. “I was happy with the way our team came back after a tough stretch.
Your goal every year is to make sure you are ready for conference play and starting off with a win is always a positive. We now have to prepare for Hampton on Saturday, and we will need this type of team effort to win on their home court,” Gibson said.
The Lady Rattlers never trailed the contest, and ended with their largest lead of 21 points, fueled by a 31-10 run coming down the stretch. FAMU got contributions deep into their bench as seven Lady Rattlers scored on the day and 10 grabbed at least one rebound. NSU tied the game as they came out on fire in the second half, but the Lady Rattlers used a scoring spurts to distance themselves from the Spartans.
FAMU shot 36.6 percent from the floor and 36.4 from behind the three-point line. They also made the most of their free throw opportunities shooting 88.5 percent from the charity stripe.
The Lady Rattlers will play the Hampton Lady Pirates on Saturday at 4 p.m. at the Hampton University Convocation Center.
COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION RELEASE
from the EDITOR: MEAC Refs Can’t Escape Scandal
NORFOLK, Virginia -- When last did you see a basketball game where two teams shot a combined 100 free throws? Most of us who buy season tickets to watch the games certainly don’t expect to see a game where the referees have a starring role. On Thursday night the Norfolk State Spartans men’s team hosted the FAMU Rattlers. The Spartans won the game 91-87 and the game was closer than that. There are a number of stats that standout from the game, but what makes this game unusual is the 60 free throws shot by Norfolk State along with the 38 shot by FAMU.
With all the fouls you would think that these are not well coached teams. Norfolk was the regular season MEAC conference champion last season and FAMU is much on the mend from recent history. For those watching you cannot say the quality of play was poor, but what you can say is that the whistles were numerous and in many instances uncalled for.
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With all the fouls you would think that these are not well coached teams. Norfolk was the regular season MEAC conference champion last season and FAMU is much on the mend from recent history. For those watching you cannot say the quality of play was poor, but what you can say is that the whistles were numerous and in many instances uncalled for.
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Hawkins leads NSU to win over FAMU
Teams combine for 100 free throw attempts
NORFOLK, Virginia -- Malcolm Hawkins scored 20 points and made 13 of 14 free throws, helping seal the game as Norfolk State edged Florida A&M 91-87 on Thursday night in the conference opener for both teams.
Norfolk State (6-3, 1-0 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference) led 80-72 with two minutes to play, but Florida A&M (2-6, 0-1) scored six straight points to cut it to 80-78 with 1:01 remaining.
Florida A&M later made two 3-pointers in the final 37 seconds, cutting the Spartans' lead to 2 each time. But during that span Norfolk State hit 7 of 8 free throws to close the game. The Spartans shot a school-record 62 free throws, 41 of which they made.
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Nuggets defeat William Carey, increase home streak to 9
NEW ORLEANS -- Vinnie Briggs and Whitney Gathright scored 10 points apiece Thursday to lead NAIA No. 15 Xavier University of Louisiana in a 60-47 women's basketball victory against William Carey.
The Gold Nuggets (6-5) won their second in a row and increased their home win streak to nine. They are 3-0 in the Convocation Center this season.
William Carey scored the first two points, but the Nuggets answered with an 8-0 run and never lost the lead thereafter. Xavier led 31-20 at halftime and held its largest advantage, 60-39, after Danielle Tucker's basket with 3:09 remaining.
Whitney Gaston-Loyd scored nine points in nine minutes for Xavier while missing one shot.
Jessica Hayes led William Carey (2-5) with nine points.
Xavier outshot William Carey 41.1 to 36.2 percent from the floor. The Gold Nuggets committed 20 turnovers and gained 29. William Carey had a 35-33 rebound advantage, but Xavier had the two leading individuals: Tucker with seven and Carmen Holcombe with six.
Paige Gauthier did not start but led the Nuggets with eight assists and four steals. She is the first XU player of the last 10 seasons to produce eight or more assists in consecutive games.
The teams will meet again Feb. 11 at William Carey.
It was Xavier's final game before fall semester final exams, which will begin Monday. The Nuggets' next game will be Dec. 16 against UPR-Bayamon in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The next home game will start at 7 p.m. on Dec. 30 against Mobile in the Xavier Classic.
Box score
By Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
XULAATHLETICS
XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
Akinkugbe Plays Big, NCA&T Aggies Down Wright State
GREENSBORO, North Carolina – The tendinitis in Bryan Akinkugbe’s knee has hampered him since
he arrived in Greensboro this past summer from Columbia State Community
College.
It prevented the 6-foot-9 North Carolina A&T center from playing in the Dominican Republic in
August. He missed a lot of practice time leading up to the season, and he did not play in the Aggies’ first two games of the season.
On Thursday night however, he showed signs of what type of player he can be for the A&T men’s basketball team once he is fully recovered. Akinkugbe finished with a season-high 12 points, added five rebounds and made some key defensive plays down the stretch to help the Aggies earn a 62-59 win over the Raiders at Corbett Sports Center. The Aggies improved to 3-5 with their second win in three games.
“Tonight was huge for me,” said Akinkugbe. “I’ve been trying so hard to rehab and get right. I feel like I got my confidence back after not playing a whole lot.”
Akinkugbe’s performance was big because the Aggies were playing without leading rebounder and double-figure scorer Bruce Beckford who was sidelined with a concussion. In his absence, the Aggies trailed Wright State 57-55 with 2:44 remaining. Freshman Jerome Simmons changed all of that when he blocked AJ Pacher’s shot in the lane, which turned into a transition opportunity for A&T.
Middleton finished the fastbreak opportunity with a layup and was fouled as he converted the 3-point play to give A&T a 58-57 advantage. Wright State’s Jeran Young put the Raiders back in front by laying in the ricochet from Akinkugbe’s block of a Matt Vest layup with 1:50 to play.
The Aggies then went inside to Akinkugbe who was fouled by Young with 1:36 remaining.
Akinkugbe stepped to the line and netted two free throws without the ball touching any iron. After a Raider turnover, A&T guard Lamont Middleton hit one of two free throws to give A&T a 61-59 lead.
JT Yoho was headed toward tying the game for Wright State with 28 seconds remaining. His pump fake got him into the lane, but Akinkugbe would jump in front of him and throw up his long arms, forcing Yoho to pick up his dribble and eventually turn the ball over.
“This was Bryan’s best game,” said A&T head coach Cy Alexander. “He’s been injured. You probably saw him limping out there. He’s battling through it. He really doesn’t practice all the time because we are trying to save him.”
Yoho’s turnover landed in in the hands of Simmons who went to the line and connected on one of two free throws, giving Wright State another chance to tie the game. But Pacher’s 3-point attempt hit the back of the iron and Kendall Griffin’s desperation three hit nothing as time expired.
To our young men’s credit, they came out defensively in the second half and got stops, “ said Alexander after his team trailed 28-23 at the half. “We shot the ball a lot better in the second half. What we didn’t do is make free throws throughout the course of the game. But I have to give Bryan Akinkugbe credit. He stepped up and made two clutch free throws. And then freshman Jerome Simmons made one out of two. That was just as big because it put us up three.”
Richaud Pack led the Aggies with 15 points on 5-for-8 shooting. Middleton added 14 points and Jeremy Underwood finished with 10 points and four assists. Wright State (5-5), who is still winless on the road, was led by Vest’s 15 points.
The Aggies held the lead most of the first half, but a Yoho 3-pointer and layup helped the Raiders tie the game at 22. After a Khary Doby free throw, the Raiders scored six straight points thanks to three Aggie turnovers.
COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
It prevented the 6-foot-9 North Carolina A&T center from playing in the Dominican Republic in
August. He missed a lot of practice time leading up to the season, and he did not play in the Aggies’ first two games of the season.
On Thursday night however, he showed signs of what type of player he can be for the A&T men’s basketball team once he is fully recovered. Akinkugbe finished with a season-high 12 points, added five rebounds and made some key defensive plays down the stretch to help the Aggies earn a 62-59 win over the Raiders at Corbett Sports Center. The Aggies improved to 3-5 with their second win in three games.
“Tonight was huge for me,” said Akinkugbe. “I’ve been trying so hard to rehab and get right. I feel like I got my confidence back after not playing a whole lot.”
Akinkugbe’s performance was big because the Aggies were playing without leading rebounder and double-figure scorer Bruce Beckford who was sidelined with a concussion. In his absence, the Aggies trailed Wright State 57-55 with 2:44 remaining. Freshman Jerome Simmons changed all of that when he blocked AJ Pacher’s shot in the lane, which turned into a transition opportunity for A&T.
Middleton finished the fastbreak opportunity with a layup and was fouled as he converted the 3-point play to give A&T a 58-57 advantage. Wright State’s Jeran Young put the Raiders back in front by laying in the ricochet from Akinkugbe’s block of a Matt Vest layup with 1:50 to play.
The Aggies then went inside to Akinkugbe who was fouled by Young with 1:36 remaining.
Akinkugbe stepped to the line and netted two free throws without the ball touching any iron. After a Raider turnover, A&T guard Lamont Middleton hit one of two free throws to give A&T a 61-59 lead.
JT Yoho was headed toward tying the game for Wright State with 28 seconds remaining. His pump fake got him into the lane, but Akinkugbe would jump in front of him and throw up his long arms, forcing Yoho to pick up his dribble and eventually turn the ball over.
“This was Bryan’s best game,” said A&T head coach Cy Alexander. “He’s been injured. You probably saw him limping out there. He’s battling through it. He really doesn’t practice all the time because we are trying to save him.”
Yoho’s turnover landed in in the hands of Simmons who went to the line and connected on one of two free throws, giving Wright State another chance to tie the game. But Pacher’s 3-point attempt hit the back of the iron and Kendall Griffin’s desperation three hit nothing as time expired.
To our young men’s credit, they came out defensively in the second half and got stops, “ said Alexander after his team trailed 28-23 at the half. “We shot the ball a lot better in the second half. What we didn’t do is make free throws throughout the course of the game. But I have to give Bryan Akinkugbe credit. He stepped up and made two clutch free throws. And then freshman Jerome Simmons made one out of two. That was just as big because it put us up three.”
Richaud Pack led the Aggies with 15 points on 5-for-8 shooting. Middleton added 14 points and Jeremy Underwood finished with 10 points and four assists. Wright State (5-5), who is still winless on the road, was led by Vest’s 15 points.
The Aggies held the lead most of the first half, but a Yoho 3-pointer and layup helped the Raiders tie the game at 22. After a Khary Doby free throw, the Raiders scored six straight points thanks to three Aggie turnovers.
A&T 62, Wright State 59 |
COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Gold Rush hold on for 48-45 victory against Mobile
NEW ORLEANS -- Xavier Rogers scored 14 points and blocked a shot in the closing seconds Thursday to help NAIA No. 19 Xavier University of Louisiana preserve a 48-45 men's basketball victory against Mobile.
The Gold Rush (7-3) completed a two-game season sweep of the Rams (2-7) and won for the sixth time in seven home games this season. Xavier has won 55 of its last 60 non-conference home games.
Rogers blocked Cody Scott's field-goal attempt with eight seconds remaining and Xavier leading 47-45. Xavier's Gary Smith made 1-of-2 free throws for the final point, then Mobile's Kwame Beard missed a 3-pointer at the buzzer.
Sydney Coleman had 13 points and seven rebounds for Xavier, and Anthony Goode and Morris Wright scored eight points apiece. Wright had five assists.
Julien Sargent scored 15 points and Scott 12 for Mobile.
Xavier outshot the Rams 45.5 to 34.8 percent from the floor and outrebounded them 32-21.
The Gold Rush scored the first five points, held Mobile scoreless the first five minutes and never lost the lead. Xavier led 22-17 at halftime and took its largest lead, 32-19, on Goode's basket with 16:54 remaining.
Mobile remained in contention because Xavier missed six consecutive missed free throws in the final 33 seconds
It was the first time since February 2010 that the Gold Rush scored fewer than 50 points in a countable game, and it was the first time since January 2009 that the Rush won with fewer than 50 points.
It was Xavier's final game before fall semester final exams, which will begin Monday. The next Gold Rush game will start at 4 p.m. on Dec. 14 against city rival Loyola -- the first of six straight on the road. The next home game will start at 5 p.m. on Jan. 11 against SUNO.
Box score
By Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
XULAATHLETICS
The Gold Rush (7-3) completed a two-game season sweep of the Rams (2-7) and won for the sixth time in seven home games this season. Xavier has won 55 of its last 60 non-conference home games.
Rogers blocked Cody Scott's field-goal attempt with eight seconds remaining and Xavier leading 47-45. Xavier's Gary Smith made 1-of-2 free throws for the final point, then Mobile's Kwame Beard missed a 3-pointer at the buzzer.
Sydney Coleman had 13 points and seven rebounds for Xavier, and Anthony Goode and Morris Wright scored eight points apiece. Wright had five assists.
Julien Sargent scored 15 points and Scott 12 for Mobile.
Xavier outshot the Rams 45.5 to 34.8 percent from the floor and outrebounded them 32-21.
The Gold Rush scored the first five points, held Mobile scoreless the first five minutes and never lost the lead. Xavier led 22-17 at halftime and took its largest lead, 32-19, on Goode's basket with 16:54 remaining.
Mobile remained in contention because Xavier missed six consecutive missed free throws in the final 33 seconds
It was the first time since February 2010 that the Gold Rush scored fewer than 50 points in a countable game, and it was the first time since January 2009 that the Rush won with fewer than 50 points.
It was Xavier's final game before fall semester final exams, which will begin Monday. The next Gold Rush game will start at 4 p.m. on Dec. 14 against city rival Loyola -- the first of six straight on the road. The next home game will start at 5 p.m. on Jan. 11 against SUNO.
Box score
By Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
XULAATHLETICS
A&M remains undefeated in December with win over Oakwood
NORMAL, Alabama -- In a battle of cross-town HBCUs, the team from Normal's Hill was triumphant, defeating the visiting Oakwood University, 70-58.
The Bulldogs of Alabama A&M were able to improve to 3-4 on the year after a 12-point victory over the neighboring school. A&M remains undefeated in the month of December, after winning its two last outings.
At the end of the first 20-minutes of play, the Maroon and White went into the locker room with a sizable 16 point lead at 38-22. The Bulldogs gained a lead early and would hold the advantage over the visitors the entire first period of play.
In the second half, the visiting squad was determined not to go down without a fight. Oakwood outshot the Bulldogs for behind the arc and at the charity strip, converting 46.7 and 84.6 percent from each position respectively. Their exceptional shooting from these areas made the second half a battle.
Despite the increase effort from Oakwood University, who won the second half battle outscoring the home team 36-32, the Maroon and White held on for the victory.
A&M never trailed at any point this game and dominated multiple aspects of the contest. The Bulldogs shot 45% from the field (27-60), and ruled the boards. Overall A&M out-rebound Oakwood 43-36, , a first all season, while being plus four on the offensive boards and plus three on the defensive boards. Center Justan Banks led the way with nine rebounds. He added an assist and two blocks in 17 minutes of play.
The Maroon and White had two players score double digits, center Jerome Hunter with 11 and Brandon Ellis with 10. Another first this season was the 12 of 15 Bulldog players scoring in the game.
The Bulldogs will return to the hardwood next week versus Ohio University in Athens, Ohio on December 14.
COURTESY ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
The Bulldogs of Alabama A&M were able to improve to 3-4 on the year after a 12-point victory over the neighboring school. A&M remains undefeated in the month of December, after winning its two last outings.
At the end of the first 20-minutes of play, the Maroon and White went into the locker room with a sizable 16 point lead at 38-22. The Bulldogs gained a lead early and would hold the advantage over the visitors the entire first period of play.
In the second half, the visiting squad was determined not to go down without a fight. Oakwood outshot the Bulldogs for behind the arc and at the charity strip, converting 46.7 and 84.6 percent from each position respectively. Their exceptional shooting from these areas made the second half a battle.
Despite the increase effort from Oakwood University, who won the second half battle outscoring the home team 36-32, the Maroon and White held on for the victory.
A&M never trailed at any point this game and dominated multiple aspects of the contest. The Bulldogs shot 45% from the field (27-60), and ruled the boards. Overall A&M out-rebound Oakwood 43-36, , a first all season, while being plus four on the offensive boards and plus three on the defensive boards. Center Justan Banks led the way with nine rebounds. He added an assist and two blocks in 17 minutes of play.
The Maroon and White had two players score double digits, center Jerome Hunter with 11 and Brandon Ellis with 10. Another first this season was the 12 of 15 Bulldog players scoring in the game.
The Bulldogs will return to the hardwood next week versus Ohio University in Athens, Ohio on December 14.
COURTESY ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
2013 SWAC Hall of Fame Formally Inducted
PHOTO COURTESY SWAC.ORG |
HOUSTON, Texas -- The 2013 SWAC Hall of Fame class was inducted on Thursday night at the annual reception at the Westin Galleria Hotel. The event kicked off championship weekend for 2013 Toyota SWAC Football Championship.
The 2013 Hall of Fame class included Reggie Barlow, an All-American wide receiver for Alabama State who is currently head football coach at his alma mater.
Carol Cummings, a record-setting sprinter at Prairie View A&M and a member of the first two SWAC women’s indoor and outdoor championship teams.
Jimmy Jones and Bob Hopkins, All-American basketball players at Grambling State, played professionally.
Richard Myles, a two-sport All-SWAC performer at Alcorn State who was also a member of the dean’s list.
Jim Osborne, an All-SWAC defensive tackle at Southern University who played 13 seasons with the Chicago Bears in the NFL.
Charles Ruth, a five-time All-SWAC distance runner at Alcorn State, who coached Mississippi Valley State’s men’s cross country and track and field teams to unprecedented success.
The class was also recognized by U.S. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, 18th District, alongside State Representative Dr. Alma A. Allen with a proclamation of honor.
Barlow Joins SWAC Greats In Hall Of Fame
HOUSTON, Texas -- Alabama State University head football coach Reggie Barlow entered the prestigious group of Southwestern Athletic Conference greats with his induction Thursday into the SWAC Hall Of Fame.
Barlow is a part of the seven-member class that included James 'Jimmy' Jones (Grambling State), Charles Ruth (Mississippi Valley State), James 'Jim' Osborne (Southern), Carol V. Cummings (Prairie View A&M), Bob Hopkins (Grambling State) and Richard P. Myles Sr. (Alcorn State).
The event at the Westin Hotel is a part of festivities for the newest class of SWAC Hall inductees as part of the Toyota SWAC Football Championship Game weekend. Barlow and the inductees will address the media Friday as part of the championship game press conference, and be presented Saturday during the game at Reliant Stadium.
Barlow becomes the 15th inductee to go into the SWAC Hall of Fame as an Alabama State Hornet, joining legends C.J. Dunn, Severne Frazier, John H. Jones, George "Pops" Lockhart, James Garrick Hardy, Charles "Buddy" Spears, Frank Lewis, Jesse White, Norman Walton, William "Bill" Gary, Eddie Robinson Jr., Lewis Jackson, James Oliver, and Horace Crump.
"I'm proud to say I'm a 2013 SWAC Hall of Famer," Barlow said. "I was the first to give my speech so I was a tad nervous, but pulled it off. This is so not about me, but my brothers Clemmon, Jeff, Rodney, and Darrell. It's about the preparation I got from ASU and my college coach Houston Markham, and it's about (my parents) Barbara Barlow and Clemmon Barlow, their commitment to discipline, work, and not giving up is in my fiber."
Barlow just completed his seventh season as head coach at his alma mater, leading the Hornets to an 8-4 record and wins in both the Magic City Classic and Turkey Day Classic in the same season for the first time since 1998. It was the fourth straight winning season for the program, a feat last accomplished in 1978-81. Barlow led Alabama State to the SWAC Eastern Division title in 2010, and has had the Hornets on the brink of championship game berths in each of the last three seasons.
As an Alabama State wide receiver (1991-95), Barlow ended his career first in receptions (133) and receiving yards (2,536 yards) and third in touchdowns (17). Barlow currently ranks tied for third, second, and fifth respectively in each category, and still owns the school's single-season record with 1,267 yards, set in 1994.
Barlow was drafted in the fourth round of the 1996 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars, beginning an eight-year career (1996-2003) as a wide receiver and shined as a punt and kickoff returner. During his five seasons with the Jaguars, Barlow led the team in punt returns four straight years, and in kickoff returns twice. Barlow still owns franchise records for punt returns (146), punt returns yards (1,581) and touchdowns (two), and is fourth in kickoff returns (70), third in kickoff return yards (1,634), and tied for second in touchdowns (one). He was named a Pro Bowl alternate following the 1998 season.
Barlow spent one season with the Oakland Raiders, before playing his final two years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In 2002, Barlow was part of the history as the Bucs won Super Bowl 37. In his eight-year career, Barlow amassed more than 4,000 all-purpose yards and seven touchdowns.
COURTESY ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Barlow is a part of the seven-member class that included James 'Jimmy' Jones (Grambling State), Charles Ruth (Mississippi Valley State), James 'Jim' Osborne (Southern), Carol V. Cummings (Prairie View A&M), Bob Hopkins (Grambling State) and Richard P. Myles Sr. (Alcorn State).
The event at the Westin Hotel is a part of festivities for the newest class of SWAC Hall inductees as part of the Toyota SWAC Football Championship Game weekend. Barlow and the inductees will address the media Friday as part of the championship game press conference, and be presented Saturday during the game at Reliant Stadium.
Barlow becomes the 15th inductee to go into the SWAC Hall of Fame as an Alabama State Hornet, joining legends C.J. Dunn, Severne Frazier, John H. Jones, George "Pops" Lockhart, James Garrick Hardy, Charles "Buddy" Spears, Frank Lewis, Jesse White, Norman Walton, William "Bill" Gary, Eddie Robinson Jr., Lewis Jackson, James Oliver, and Horace Crump.
"I'm proud to say I'm a 2013 SWAC Hall of Famer," Barlow said. "I was the first to give my speech so I was a tad nervous, but pulled it off. This is so not about me, but my brothers Clemmon, Jeff, Rodney, and Darrell. It's about the preparation I got from ASU and my college coach Houston Markham, and it's about (my parents) Barbara Barlow and Clemmon Barlow, their commitment to discipline, work, and not giving up is in my fiber."
Barlow just completed his seventh season as head coach at his alma mater, leading the Hornets to an 8-4 record and wins in both the Magic City Classic and Turkey Day Classic in the same season for the first time since 1998. It was the fourth straight winning season for the program, a feat last accomplished in 1978-81. Barlow led Alabama State to the SWAC Eastern Division title in 2010, and has had the Hornets on the brink of championship game berths in each of the last three seasons.
As an Alabama State wide receiver (1991-95), Barlow ended his career first in receptions (133) and receiving yards (2,536 yards) and third in touchdowns (17). Barlow currently ranks tied for third, second, and fifth respectively in each category, and still owns the school's single-season record with 1,267 yards, set in 1994.
Barlow was drafted in the fourth round of the 1996 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars, beginning an eight-year career (1996-2003) as a wide receiver and shined as a punt and kickoff returner. During his five seasons with the Jaguars, Barlow led the team in punt returns four straight years, and in kickoff returns twice. Barlow still owns franchise records for punt returns (146), punt returns yards (1,581) and touchdowns (two), and is fourth in kickoff returns (70), third in kickoff return yards (1,634), and tied for second in touchdowns (one). He was named a Pro Bowl alternate following the 1998 season.
Barlow spent one season with the Oakland Raiders, before playing his final two years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In 2002, Barlow was part of the history as the Bucs won Super Bowl 37. In his eight-year career, Barlow amassed more than 4,000 all-purpose yards and seven touchdowns.
COURTESY ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Thursday, December 5, 2013
TSU defense hopes to live up to praise
E. Illinois coach says secondary is among best it faced
NASHVILLE, Tennessee -- Eastern Illinois coach Dino Babers called Tennessee State’s secondary the best his team has faced in the FCS.
But the bottom line is that Eastern Illinois didn’t have any more trouble moving the ball against TSU than it did against most of the secondaries it faced.
The Tigers (10-3) will get another chance Saturday at trying to stop the Panthers (11-1) in the second round of the Football Championship Subdivision playoffs in Charleston, Ill.
“We think it’s either the first- or second-best secondary we played, and it’s the best FCS secondary for sure,” Babers said. “The only teams we could compare it to was (FBS) San Diego State and Northern Illinois’ secondary.”
Eastern Illinois quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo was named one of three finalists for the Walter Payton Award, which goes to the best player in the FCS.
CONTINUE READING
Ram Ramblings: WSSU files formal complaint with NCAA, CIAA
WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina -- Chancellor Donald Reaves of Winston-Salem State, who is recovering from hip-replacement surgery, is a man of his word.
During the press conference on Nov. 18 three days after quarterback Rudy Johnson was attacked in a bathroom by several Virginia State players Reaves said the school would eventually file a complaint with the NCAA and with the CIAA.
That complaint has been filed and WSSU is looking for plenty.
WSSU complaint - Download .pdf
CONTINUE READING
During the press conference on Nov. 18 three days after quarterback Rudy Johnson was attacked in a bathroom by several Virginia State players Reaves said the school would eventually file a complaint with the NCAA and with the CIAA.
That complaint has been filed and WSSU is looking for plenty.
WSSU complaint - Download .pdf
CONTINUE READING
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