(From Gov. Jay Nixon)
Gov. Jay Nixon has made a friendly wager with Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin on the outcome of Friday night's Cotton Bowl game between their respective alma maters, the Missouri Tigers (#8 BCS ranking) and the Oklahoma State University Cowboys (#13).
Both Governors are wagering food products from their states, with the food to be donated to a food bank or pantry in the state of the winning team. Gov. Nixon is staking a spiral sliced city ham (with homemade honey ham glaze) and a smoked turkey, delicacies from Burgers' Smokehouse, located in California, Mo. Gov. Fallin is wagering a food basket with about 50 pounds of products donated by the Made in Oklahoma Coalition.*
When the Tigers win, the food from Oklahoma will be donated to the Food Bank of Central and Northeast Missouri. In the highly unlikely event that the Cowboys prevail, the ham and turkey will be donated to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma.
"Our Tigers have had an outstanding 11-2 campaign in only their second year in the premier football conference in the country," said Gov. Nixon, a 1978 graduate of the University of Missouri and a 1981 graduate of the University's School of Law. "I look forward to watching the Tigers claim the Cotton Bowl title on Friday, and sending the Cowboys home empty-handed across the Red River."
Fallin, a 1977 OSU graduate, said she is confident the 10-2 Cowboys will be able to corral the Tigers.
"It is definitely an exciting time for both universities to be playing in a historic bowl game like the Cotton Bowl," Gov. Fallin said. "I appreciate Governor Nixon for showing good sportsmanship by participating in this friendly wager as we continue to raise awareness about hunger in both states. I look forward to the delivery of these goods when the Cowboys win!"
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
MSSU men's basketball to resume play Saturday
The Missouri Southern men's basketball team will look to extend its seven-game winning streak as the Lions open up 2014 by playing host to Fort Hays State at 3 pm this Saturday inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Game Information
Teams: Missouri Southern (9-1/3-0 MIAA) | Fort Hays State (8-3, 0-3 MIAA)
Date: Saturday, Dec. 21, 2013
Tip-Off: 3:00 pm
Location: Joplin, Mo.
Site: Leggett & Platt Athletic Center (3,240)
Series Record: MSSU leads 46-30
Coaches: Robert Corn (397-300 overall/at MSSU). Mark Johnson (254-109, overall and at FHSU)
Media Coverage
MSSU Radio: 97.9 FM Big Dog - Mike McClure - Play by Play
Internet Audio: www.mssulions.com
Webcast: www.mssulions.com
Live Stats: livestats.prestosports.com/mssu
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/missourisouthernlions
Lions on Twitter: @mososports; @mssumensbball
The Series: Fort Hays holds a 26-17 advantage over the Lions. Prior to the 2007-08 season, all of the games came when both teams were in the CSIC. The Lions have won five out of eight games in the series.The Tigers have had two separate streaks of five wins in a row. Southern dropped seven straight games from 1982 to 1985 and have lost 13 out of the last 15 games with the Tigers with the last meeting taking place in 1989. The largest margin of victory for the Lions came on two consecutive games on Feb. 18, 1977 and Feb. 3, 1978 when Southern defeated the Tigers by identical 15 point margins. The largest margin of victory for the Tigers came in the 1987-88 season when Hays defeated Southern twice by the margins of 26 and 44 points. At home, Southern is 13-6 against the Tigers. The Lions are 4-16 in Hays and are 0-4 in nuetral site games.
MIAA Team Ranks: The Lions lead the MIAA in scoring margin, three point defense, field goal defense, blocks, turnover margin, offensive rebounds and offensive rebound percentage. Southern ranks second in scoring, and steals, while ranking third in rebounds, assists and field goal percentage. The Lions also rank fourth in free-throws, and rebounding margin.
MIAA Individual Ranks: Marquis Addison ranks tenth in scoring in the MIAA, while ranking fifth in free-throw shooting and seventh in steals. Slim Magee ranks second in field goal percentage and third in blocks, whileJordan Talbert ranks fourth in blocks and sixth in rebounds. Lane Barlow ranks ninth in assists, eighth in asst/turnover ratio and tenth in steals, while Austin Wright ranks fifth in three point percentage.
National Ranks: The Lions, as a team, rank 11th in scoring margin, 12th in total blocks and 13th in blocks per game. Southern ranks 21st in field goal defense, 23rd in both win loss percentage and scoring, while ranking 26th in field goal percenage, 33rd in assists per game and 34th in turnover margin. Individually, both Slim Magee and Jordan Talbert rank in the top 60 in total blockzs and blocks per game.
Season Highs: Austin Wright's seven made three pointers against Washburn is the most in a single-game this year. Slim Magee's seven blocks against Nebraska-Kearney was the most in a single-game, as well.
Passing 1,000: Marquis Addison became the newest member of the 1,000 point club at MSSU with 20 points against Central Missouri last season. He currently has 1,281 points, moving in front of Russell Bland for 10th place all-time in scoring at Southern. He needs 99 points to pass Terry Shumphert for 9th all-time and is the fourth Lion in the past three seasons to pass 1,000, joining Jason Adams, Skyler Bowlin and Keane Thomann.
Corn Moves Up The Wins Ladder: Coach Robert Corn won his 380th career game against Central Bible and that moved him into fourth place on the MIAA career wins list, passing Truman's Boyd King (1946-71). He now has 397 wins and is second among active coaches (Bob Chipman).
Three Point Streak: The Lions failed to make a three-pointer at Arkansas Tech in their match-up in 2012-13. It was the first time in 403 games that Southern had failed to hit a three pointer, dating back to Jan. 20, 1999 against Missouri S&T. The Lions have had a three in 32-straight games since Arkansas Tech in 2012-13.
Points a Plenty: With the 101 points scored against Ottawa, it is the first time in the program's history the Lions have scored at least 100 points or more in three-straight games. The Lions have scored 100 or more in 65 games in the program's history, including six times in the 85-86 season.
Leggett & Platt Attendance: The Lions averaged 1,745 fans per game last season at the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. That number ranked 15th nationally and is the third season in a row for Southern to rank in the top 20 nationally as the Lions were ranked 17th a season ago, averaging 1,923 fans per game. The Lions were ranked 18th nationally two seasons ago, averaging 1,801 fans per game.
He's on Fire: Austin Wright was perfect from the field against Washburn going 8-8. He was 7-7 from long-range, tying the school record for three-point percentage, but his seven made shots is the most-ever in a perfect performance.
preseason MIAA PicksThe Missouri Southern men's basketball team was picked to finish sixth in the coaches poll and ninth in the media poll in the 2013-14 Preseason MIAA Polls.
Up Next:The Lions will travel to Central Oklahoma on January 8th, and will stay on the road with a January 11th matchup at Northeastern State.
Monday, December 30, 2013
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Friday, December 27, 2013
KSDK commentary: Cardinals need Allen Craig at first base
The projected starting lineup for 2014 for the St. Louis Cardinals has Allen Craig in right field and Matt Adams at first base, but a KSDK commentary by Joe Schwarz says the Redbirds would be better off playing Craig at first base for health reasons:
In conclusion, do I want Adams' bat in the lineup every day for a full season? You bet I do. However, I do not want it at the expense of Craig's health. With Beltran gone, the Cardinals will ask even more from Craig next season. They need 550+ plate appearances from him. Can he get that while playing right-field all season? Yes, he could, but I like his chances of reaching that number much more if he played most of his games at first.
Obviously, if set-backs occur with (Oscar) Taveras or he doesn't perform the way the organization would like early in the season, this post won't mean much. Yet, I still figured it was exploring because if he does perform the way many scouts believe he can, he will be an ideal fit in right-field for the long-term.
In conclusion, do I want Adams' bat in the lineup every day for a full season? You bet I do. However, I do not want it at the expense of Craig's health. With Beltran gone, the Cardinals will ask even more from Craig next season. They need 550+ plate appearances from him. Can he get that while playing right-field all season? Yes, he could, but I like his chances of reaching that number much more if he played most of his games at first.
Obviously, if set-backs occur with (Oscar) Taveras or he doesn't perform the way the organization would like early in the season, this post won't mean much. Yet, I still figured it was exploring because if he does perform the way many scouts believe he can, he will be an ideal fit in right-field for the long-term.
Any thoughts?
Thursday, December 26, 2013
MLB.com: Cardinals defense will be a joy to watch
If you think the St. Louis Cardinals' young pitchers are good, wait until you see them with a vastly improved defense behind them.
That's the message in an article posted today on MLB.com.
The writer says the Cardinals' off-season moves have improved them defensively at three positions- third base where Matt Carpenter is better than the departed David Freese, second base- where either Kolten Wong or free agent signee Mark Ellis are better than Carpenter, and center field, where Peter Journos, picked up in the trade that sent Freese and Fernando Salas to the Angels, may be one of the two or three best center fielders in the majors.
That's the message in an article posted today on MLB.com.
The writer says the Cardinals' off-season moves have improved them defensively at three positions- third base where Matt Carpenter is better than the departed David Freese, second base- where either Kolten Wong or free agent signee Mark Ellis are better than Carpenter, and center field, where Peter Journos, picked up in the trade that sent Freese and Fernando Salas to the Angels, may be one of the two or three best center fielders in the majors.
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Dodgers sign two former Cardinal relievers
The Los Angeles Dodgers moved to strengthen their bullpen Monday by signing two relievers who have spent time with the Cardinals- Chris Perez and Jamey Wright.
Those two are in addition for former Giants closer Brian Wilson who signed as a free agent after finishing the season with the Dodgers.
Perez had been the Indians closer for the last few years, but was released after the 2013 season. Writght was with the Dodgers in 2012, but spent the 2013 season with Tampa Bay. Wright, 39, spent the last two months of the 2002 season with the Cardinals.
Perez, 28, was in the Cardinals bullpen from 2008 to 2010 before being traded to Cleveland for Mark DeRosa.
Those two are in addition for former Giants closer Brian Wilson who signed as a free agent after finishing the season with the Dodgers.
Perez had been the Indians closer for the last few years, but was released after the 2013 season. Writght was with the Dodgers in 2012, but spent the 2013 season with Tampa Bay. Wright, 39, spent the last two months of the 2002 season with the Cardinals.
Perez, 28, was in the Cardinals bullpen from 2008 to 2010 before being traded to Cleveland for Mark DeRosa.
Monday, December 23, 2013
Boston College assistant named new MSSU volleyball coach
Missouri Southern director of athletics Jared Bruggeman has announced that John Napier will be the new head volleyball coach at Missouri Southern. Napier will officially begin his duties at Southern in January.
Napier comes to Southern after a season as an assistant coach at Division I Boston College, almost a decade at Northern Arizona and six years at his alma mater, The University of Akron.
"I'd like to thank athletic director Jared Bruggeman, assistant athletic director Rachel Burleson, the volleyball players, the entire search committee and all those who have given me this terrific opportunity," Napier said. "I feel all the pieces are in place to win here. The team has been good in the past and I will work hard to get back on track. I believe we can build a program here that will be fun to watch as well as represent the school and community in a positive light. I'm looking forward to being part of the Lion's staff and I'm excited to get started."
Napier's previous Division-I coaching experience includes six years as the top assistant at the University of Akron in Ohio and almost a decade as the volunteer and full-time assistant at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona.
Throughout his time at Akron, he also served for three years as the co-director and coach of the Akron Canton Elite (A.C.E.) Junior Olympic volleyball club where he was the head coach of the 17s team. Other head coaching experience includes three years as the women's All Air Force indoor and beach coach and one year as the men's indoor and beach coach.
Final statistics show MSSU football team second in rushing yardage
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
The NCAA released its final Division II statistics today and the Missouri Southern football team led the country in time of possession this season, while ranking second in rushing yardage.
The Lions held the ball for an average of 35:14 in each game this season and that ranked tops in all of Division II. Southern rushed the ball for an average of 368.4 yards per game, just two yards per game behind national leader and national runner-up Lenoir-Rhyne.
The Lions had just three passes intercepted all season long and that ranked second, one behind national leader Carson Newman. Southern also ranked fifth nationally in both tackles for a loss allowed and passing yards per completion.
The Lions ranked sixth in third down completion percentage, eighth in sacks allowed and ninth in fourth down conversion percentage. They also ranked tenth in first down defense.
In all, the Lions ranked in the top ten nationally in nine different categories, while ranking 14th in turnovers lost.
Dodgers closing in on former Cardinal reliever Chris Perez
MLB.com reports the Dodgers are close to signing veteran reliever Chris Perez, who has been closing games for Cleveland the last few years before he was given his release following the 2013 season.
St. Louis Cardinals fans will remember that when the Cardinals wanted a veteran presence for the team a few years back, the Indians offered Mark DeLaRosa and the Cardinals had to choose between two youjng relievers and ended up keeping Jason Motte and sending Perez to Cleveland.
St. Louis Cardinals fans will remember that when the Cardinals wanted a veteran presence for the team a few years back, the Indians offered Mark DeLaRosa and the Cardinals had to choose between two youjng relievers and ended up keeping Jason Motte and sending Perez to Cleveland.
Sunday, December 22, 2013
Saturday, December 21, 2013
MSSU women fall to Emporia State 77-56
Despite a tie score at halftime, the Missouri Southern women's basketball fell 77-56 this afternoon to the third-ranked Emporia State Lady Hornets at William L. White Auditorium.
Southern (8-2, 2-1 MIAA) was led in scoring by leading scorer Dominique Mosley, who finished with 14 points on 5-of-12 shooting from the field. Shawnee Phillips and Alexis Fitzpatrick added 11 points each. Fitzpatrick added a team-high five assists while Nicole Hartzog grabbed a team-high five rebounds. The Lions shot 18-of-48 (.375) from the field while hitting 17-of-27 (.630) from the free-throw line.
The Lady Hornets (11-0, 3-0) were led in scoring by Laura Patrick who scored 21 points while Kionna Kellog added 12 points. Amber Vandiver added a game-high 11 rebounds. Emporia State went 23-54 (.426) from the field while hitting 6-of-11 (.545) from three-point range. The Lady Hornets went to the free throw line 36 times hitting 25 for a 69.4% clip.
The Lions took an early 8-3 lead after three minutes thanks to a layup from Mosley, but the first half of the game saw a very even pace as the score was tied three times in the first 16 minutes. With the score tied at 17, the Lady Hornets took their largest lead of the game at 21-17, before the Lions scored seven of the last 10 points of the half, getting five more from Mosley, to knot the game at 24 at the break.
With the teams splitting the first eight points in the first minute of the second half and the game knotted at 28, it was off to the races from their for the Lady Hornets as they went on 12-4 run in the next three minutes to open up a 40-32 lead. Southern slowed down the Hornets momentarily before Sharese Jones hit a free-throw and a jumper from Tee Singleton cut the lead to five.
Emporia proceeded to go on another 18-8 over the next six and half minutes to take a 58-43 lead. The Lions responded with a 6-3 of their own to cut the lead to 61-49 after a pair of free throws from Fitzpatrick with 7:30 to play, but that was as close as Southern would get as the Lady Hornets ended the game on 16-7 run to win by final margin of 77-56.
The Lions are now off for two weeks for the holidays before resuming MIAA action on Saturday, January 4 when they host Fort Hays State (8-1, 2-1) at 1:00 p.m. at the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
MSSU men whip Emporia State 89-60
Emporia, Kan. -- The Missouri Southern men's basketball team went 30-32 from the free-throw line andCameron Cornelius paced the Lions with 22 points as Southern led from start to finish in an 89-60 win at Emporia State today.
Southern (9-1, 3-0 MIAA) wins its seventh in a row and sixth game in the last eight meetings with the Hornets. It is the second win in a row in Emporia as the Lions have won four of the last seven in White Auditorium.
The Lions were led in scoring by Cornelius' career-high 22 points on 7-11 from the field and 8-9 from the charity stripe. Jordan Talbert scored 16 points on 5-9 from the field, 2-3 from long range and 4-4 from the free-throw line. He also added seven rebounds. Stephen Atkinson scored ten points off the bench, as the Southern reserves outscored the Hornets' 33-5 today.
ESU (8-5, 1-2 MIAA) had two score in double-figures led by 27 points from Terrence Moore. Paul Bunch had a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds.
The Lions opened up a 7-4 lead early on after a three pointer from Addison with 15:53 left to go in the first half. The lead was ten (19-9) after a jumper from Cornelius with just under 11 minutes left and another three from Addison, this time with 4:42 left, gave Southern a 32-21 lead. A pair of free-throws from Atkinson gave the Lions a 15-point lead (40-25) with just under two minutes to go and a fast-break dunk from Cornelius as the half ended, gave the Lions a 46-27 lead going into the locker room.
Cornelius had 14 points at the half to lead all scorers.
A free-throw from Talbert two minutes into the second half gave the Lions a 22-point lead at 52-30, but Emporia would not go away that easy. An 8-0 run by the Hornets capped by a layup from Bunch cut the Lions' lead to 14 (52-38) and forced a Missouri Southern timeout.
The Lions responded and led by 22 again (62-40) after a free-throw from Addison with 12:30 left to go. The lead for the Lions reached 23 (72-49) after a pair of freebies from Talbert with 8:20 left and the Lions' lead reached 26 (78-52) after a pair of free-throws from Randy Clark with 5:48 left. A late three from Blaine Millerprovided the final score.
In the last two meetings with Emporia, the Lions have gone 60-64 (.937) from the free-throw line against the Hornets. Southern led by 19 at the break and out-scored ESU by ten in the second half. The Lions shot 47 percent from the field and 46 percent from long-range, while making 94 percent of their free-throws.
The Lions will be off for Christmas break but Southern will return to action on January 4th, as the Lions play host to Fort Hays State at 3 pm inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Friday, December 20, 2013
Preview- MSSU men to play at Emporia State Saturday
The Missouri Southern men's basketball team will look to move to 9-1 overall and 3-0 in the MIAA as the Lions travel to Emporia State tomorrow for a 3:30 pm tipoff at White Auditorium.
Game Information
Teams: Missouri Southern (8-1, 2-0 MIAA), Emporia State (8-4, 1-1 MIAA)
Date: Saturday, Dec. 21, 2013
Tip-Off: 3:30 pm
Location: Emporia, Kan.
Site: White Auditorium (5,000)
Series Record: MSSU leads 46-30
Coaches: Robert Corn (396-300 overall/at MSSU). Shawn Vandiver (31-35, overall and at ESU)
Date: Saturday, Dec. 21, 2013
Tip-Off: 3:30 pm
Location: Emporia, Kan.
Site: White Auditorium (5,000)
Series Record: MSSU leads 46-30
Coaches: Robert Corn (396-300 overall/at MSSU). Shawn Vandiver (31-35, overall and at ESU)
Media Coverage
MSSU Radio: 97.9 FM Big Dog - Mike McClure - Play by Play
Internet Audio: www.mssulions.com
Webcast: www.mssulions.com
Live Stats: livestats.prestosports.com/mssu
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/missourisouthernlions
Lions on Twitter: @mososports; @mssumensbball
MSSU Radio: 97.9 FM Big Dog - Mike McClure - Play by Play
Internet Audio: www.mssulions.com
Webcast: www.mssulions.com
Live Stats: livestats.prestosports.com/mssu
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/missourisouthernlions
Lions on Twitter: @mososports; @mssumensbball
The Series: Missouri Southern holds a 46-30 advantage in the series with Emporia State. Southern has won 12 of the last 20 and four of the last five. The Lions have a 28-10 record against Emporia in Joplin, and are 17-20 in games played at Emporia. The Southern-Emporia series has produced eight overtime games, including two double overtime thrillers. The Lions have won six of the overtime games. Missouri Southern's biggest margin of victory was 43 points, 125-82, on Jan. 19, 2002. Emporia State's biggest victory spread was in 2007, (Jan. 17, 2007) defeating the Lions 105-67 (32 points).
MIAA Team Ranks: The Lions lead the MIAA in scoring margin, turnover margin, blocks and offensive rebounds, while ranking second in scoring offense, field goal percentage, field goal defense and steals. Southern ranks third in assists, rebounding, and rebound margin, while ranking fourth in three-point defense and fifth in scoring defense, rebounds allowed, free-throw shooting and assist/turnover ratio.
MIAA Individual Ranks: Marquis Addison ranks seventh in scoring in the MIAA, while ranking third in steals, ninth in free-throw shooting and 11th in three-point shooting. Slim Magee leads the MIAA in field goal percentage and ranks third in blocks. Jordan Talbert ranks fifth in rebounding and fourth in blocks, while ranking second in offensive rebounds. The Lions have four players in the top 25 in the MIAA in scoring.
National Ranks: The Lions, as a team, rank 8th in total blocks in Division II. They also rank 11th in Blocks per game and scoring margin, while ranking 16th in scoring offense, 19th in field goal percentage, 25th in assists per game and 27th in total assists. Individually, Slim Magee ranks second in Division II in field goal percentage, while ranking 22nd in blocks, and 39th in blocks per game.
Season Highs: Austin Wright's seven made three pointers against Washburn is the most in a single-game this year. Slim Magee's seven blocks against Nebraska-Kearney was the most in a single-game, as well.
Passing 1,000: Marquis Addison became the newest member of the 1,000 point club at MSSU with 20 points against Central Missouri last season. He currently has 1,273 points, moving in front of Russell Bland for 10th place all-time in scoring at Southern. He needs 107 points to pass Terry Shumphert for 9th all-time and is the fourth Lion in the past three seasons to pass 1,000, joining Jason Adams, Skyler Bowlin and Keane Thomann.
Corn Moves Up The Wins Ladder: Coach Robert Corn won his 380th career game against Central Bible and that moved him into fourth place on the MIAA career wins list, passing Truman's Boyd King (1946-71). He now has 396 wins and is second among active coaches (Bob Chipman).
Three Point Streak: The Lions failed to make a three-pointer at Arkansas Tech in their match-up in 2012-13. It was the first time in 403 games that Southern had failed to hit a three pointer, dating back to Jan. 20, 1999 against Missouri S&T. The Lions have had a three in 30-straight games since Arkansas Tech in 2012-13.
Points a Plenty: With the 101 points scored against Ottawa, it is the first time in the program's history the Lions have scored at least 100 points or more in three-straight games. The Lions have scored 100 or more in 65 games in the program's history, including six times in the 85-86 season.
Leggett & Platt Attendance: The Lions averaged 1,745 fans per game last season at the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. That number ranked 15th nationally and is the third season in a row for Southern to rank in the top 20 nationally as the Lions were ranked 17th a season ago, averaging 1,923 fans per game. The Lions were ranked 18th nationally two seasons ago, averaging 1,801 fans per game.
He's on Fire: Austin Wright was perfect from the field against Washburn going 8-8. He was 7-7 from long-range, tying the school record for three-point percentage, but his seven made shots is the most-ever in a perfect performance.
preseason MIAA PicksThe Missouri Southern men's basketball team was picked to finish sixth in the coaches poll and ninth in the media poll in the 2013-14 Preseason MIAA Polls.
Up Next:The Lions will have Christmas break off, but will be back in action on Jan. 4 at home playing host to Fort Hays State at 3 pm.
National Ranks: The Lions, as a team, rank 8th in total blocks in Division II. They also rank 11th in Blocks per game and scoring margin, while ranking 16th in scoring offense, 19th in field goal percentage, 25th in assists per game and 27th in total assists. Individually, Slim Magee ranks second in Division II in field goal percentage, while ranking 22nd in blocks, and 39th in blocks per game.
Season Highs: Austin Wright's seven made three pointers against Washburn is the most in a single-game this year. Slim Magee's seven blocks against Nebraska-Kearney was the most in a single-game, as well.
Passing 1,000: Marquis Addison became the newest member of the 1,000 point club at MSSU with 20 points against Central Missouri last season. He currently has 1,273 points, moving in front of Russell Bland for 10th place all-time in scoring at Southern. He needs 107 points to pass Terry Shumphert for 9th all-time and is the fourth Lion in the past three seasons to pass 1,000, joining Jason Adams, Skyler Bowlin and Keane Thomann.
Corn Moves Up The Wins Ladder: Coach Robert Corn won his 380th career game against Central Bible and that moved him into fourth place on the MIAA career wins list, passing Truman's Boyd King (1946-71). He now has 396 wins and is second among active coaches (Bob Chipman).
Three Point Streak: The Lions failed to make a three-pointer at Arkansas Tech in their match-up in 2012-13. It was the first time in 403 games that Southern had failed to hit a three pointer, dating back to Jan. 20, 1999 against Missouri S&T. The Lions have had a three in 30-straight games since Arkansas Tech in 2012-13.
Points a Plenty: With the 101 points scored against Ottawa, it is the first time in the program's history the Lions have scored at least 100 points or more in three-straight games. The Lions have scored 100 or more in 65 games in the program's history, including six times in the 85-86 season.
Leggett & Platt Attendance: The Lions averaged 1,745 fans per game last season at the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. That number ranked 15th nationally and is the third season in a row for Southern to rank in the top 20 nationally as the Lions were ranked 17th a season ago, averaging 1,923 fans per game. The Lions were ranked 18th nationally two seasons ago, averaging 1,801 fans per game.
He's on Fire: Austin Wright was perfect from the field against Washburn going 8-8. He was 7-7 from long-range, tying the school record for three-point percentage, but his seven made shots is the most-ever in a perfect performance.
preseason MIAA PicksThe Missouri Southern men's basketball team was picked to finish sixth in the coaches poll and ninth in the media poll in the 2013-14 Preseason MIAA Polls.
Up Next:The Lions will have Christmas break off, but will be back in action on Jan. 4 at home playing host to Fort Hays State at 3 pm.
Thursday, December 19, 2013
MSSU women look to extend winning streak
Joplin, Mo. - Looking to extend their longest winning streak in six seasons, the Missouri Southern women's basketball team returns to MIAA action on Saturday traveling to third-ranked Emporia State to take on the Lady Hornets at 1:30 p.m. at William L. White Auditorium.
Game Information
Date: Saturday, Dec. 21, 2013
Tip-Off: 1:30 p.m., CT
Location: Emporia, Kan.
Site: William L. White Auditorium (5,000)
Series Record: ESU leads 49-23 (Home: 16-17, Away: 7-29, Neutral: 0-3)
Coaches: Ronda Hubbard (8-1 at MSSU, overall). Jory Collins (76-27 at Emporia State, overall).
Tip-Off: 1:30 p.m., CT
Location: Emporia, Kan.
Site: William L. White Auditorium (5,000)
Series Record: ESU leads 49-23 (Home: 16-17, Away: 7-29, Neutral: 0-3)
Coaches: Ronda Hubbard (8-1 at MSSU, overall). Jory Collins (76-27 at Emporia State, overall).
Media Coverage
MSSU Radio: KZYM-AM 1230 The Talker, Mike McClure, Play-by-Play
Live Stats: http://www.sidearmstats.com/emporia/wbball/
Live Video: http://www.americaonesports.com/partner_members.asp?id=293
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/missourisouthernlions
Lions on Twitter: @mososports
Live Stats: http://www.sidearmstats.com/emporia/wbball/
Live Video: http://www.americaonesports.com/partner_members.asp?id=293
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/missourisouthernlions
Lions on Twitter: @mososports
Last time out for the Lions (8-1, 2-0 MIAA): Winning their eighth consecutive game, the Missouri Southern Lions women's basketball used a balanced scoring effort to roll past non-conference opponent William Woods 80-57 tonight at Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
The Lions (8-1) were led in scoring by Nicole Hartzog with 18 points, one shy of her career-high 19 set this year against Evangel. The junior guard from Beaverton, Oregon finished 6-of-10 from the field and 3-of-4 from three-point range and added seven rebounds. Three other Lions finished in double figures as Sharese Jonesand Dominique Mosley poured in 16 points each and Shawnee Phillips added 14 points, including going 4-7 from behind the arc. Jones added a game-high nine rebounds. The eight game winning streak is Southern's longest such streak since they started the 2007-08 season with nine consecutive wins.
With Southern up four at halftime, the first three minutes of the second half saw the Owls continue to keep pace with the Lions, before Southern started to find its stroke from the outside going on a 16-6 run over the next 4:36 to open up a 58-43 lead after a layup from Mosley with 12:04 to play. That run featured six points from Mosley and four from Jones. After a three-pointer from William Woods' Katie Schreder cut the lead to twelve at 58-46, the Lions went on a 14-2 run to take their largest lead of the game at 72-48 as they cruised to the 80-57 victory.
Last time out for the Lady Hornets (10-0, 2-0 MIAA): Reigning MIAA Player of the Week Laura Patrick had 21 points and Desiree Wylie added a double double off the bench as #3 Emporia State defeated Southwest Baptist 85-53 on Wednesday night (Dec. 18) in White Auditorium. With the win the Lady Hornets moved to 10-0 for the first time since 2005-06.
The Lady Hornets never trailed and took command with a 16-0 run to take a 24-6 lead with 10:35 left in the first half. The Bearcats cut the lead to ten with 2:49 left in the period but a three pointer from Patrick and two layups from Haley Parker gave the Lady Hornets a 46-31 lead going to the locker rooms. A 13-1 run in the second half pushed the Emporia State lead to 79-47 with 3:59 left. Patrick had four assists to go with her 21 points while Wylie finished with 11 points, 11 rebounds and a career high tying three assists. Kionna Kellogg added 11 points while Haley Parker dished six assists with no turnovers.
The Coaches: Ronda Hubbard (8-1) is in her 13th year on the staff at Missouri Southern and was promoted to the position of Interim Head Coach on July 2, 2013 after the retirement of Maryann Mitts. During her 12 years with the Lions, she has helped the team to a 189-145 record, including winning marks and a trip to the MIAA post season tournament in all but one of those 12 seasons. In 2000-01, Hubbard helped the University of Texas-Pan American post its most wins in a season since becoming an NCAA Division I institution in 1985, and the second most victories in school history. Prior to her stint at Texas-Pan American, she served on current Lions head coach Maryann Mitts' staff as an assistant at Rockhurst University from 1996-2000. There, she helped the Lady Hawks post a 68-45 record and advance to the 1997-98 Sweet 16.
Jory Collins (76-27) is in his fourth season as the coach of the Lady Hornets. The Hornets finished 2012-13 with a 23-9 overall record, 13-5 in the MIAA, winning the conference tournament and advanced to the Central Regional Tournament Championship game before falling to Augustana.In 2011-12, Collins lead the Hornets to a 23-9 record while qualifying for the NCAA Tournament before falling to Pittsburg State in the regional championship game. In 2010-11 he led ESU to a 20-9 record and became the second MIAA coach to win 20 games and make the MIAA Tournament Championship Game in his first season.
The series between the schools: Emporia State leads the overall series with Southern 49-23. The Lions trail 16-17 at home, but are only 7-29 on the road, while also dropping three neutral site games. On Saturday, the Lions will look to snap a 18-game losing streak at Emporia as Southern has not defeated the Lady Hornets in Emporia since February 24, 1996 when they won 78-66. Emporia State has won 11 of the past 13 match-ups with the Lions dating back to the 2007-08 season. Southern's two wins in the past six seasons have both come at home in 2008 and 2011.
Scouting #3 Emporia State: Bringing a perfect 10-0 record, 2-0 in the MIAA into Saturday's game, the third-ranked Lady Hornets bring a high-powered offense to the court as they average 77.8 points per game, shoot 44.5% from the field and grab 45.7 rebounds per game, all top five marks in the MIAA. Senior guard Laura Patrick leads the Lady Hornets in scoring averaging 15.4 points per game, while senior forward Kionna Kellogg, a transfer from Division I Minnesota, averages 11.2 ppg. and 5.2 rpg.
Lions sit atop the MIAA standings: The Lions opened up MIAA play at home last weekend winning a pair of MIAA games over Nebraska-Kearney and Washburn as they sit atop the MIAA standings as one of only three 2-0 teams with Emporia State and Lindenwood being the other two.
MIAA Team Rankings: The Lions rank 1st in the MIAA in free-throw percentage (.787), 2nd in FG percentage (.470), assists per game (17.6) and 4th in scoring offense (77.3 ppg.).
MIAA Individual Rankings: Samantha Soyez continues to lead the MIAA in assists averaging 6.0 apg as she has dished 48 helpers on the season. Shonte Clay leads the MIAA in FG percentage as she is shooting 60.3% from the field hitting 44-73 on the year. Nicole Hartzog ranks second in the MIAA in free-throw percentage at .967% hitting 29-of-30 on the year. Alexis Fitzpartick ranks second in the MIAA in assist/turnover ratio at 5.0 as she has 40 assists and only eight turnovers on the year. Sharese Jones ranks third in the league in rebounding grabbing 9.3 rpg. Mosley is sixth grabbing 8.0 rpg. Mosley ranks third in the MIAA in scoring averaging 18.4 ppg. Jones is 7th at 15.6 ppg. Clay is 16th with 12.7 ppg.
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Talbert layup gives Lions 74-73 win over Arkansas Tech
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
Jordan Talbert's layup with 38 seconds left proved to be the game-winner as the Missouri Southern men's basketball team held on for a 74-73 win over visiting Arkansas Tech tonight at the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Southern (8-1) wins for the sixth time in the last seven meetings against Arkansas Tech (5-4). The Lions had three score in double-figures led by 21 points from Marquis Addison as the senior went 7-7 from the free-throw line. Slim Magee had a double-double with 16 points and ten rebounds, adding three blocks. Talbert finished with 17 points on 7-8 shooting with five boards.
Tech had three score in double-figures, as well, led by 18 points from Bryson Fletcher on 7-9 shooting from the field.
Southern picked up its first lead of the game at 14-13 after a layup from Addison with 11:45 in the first half. A three from Austin Wright gave the Lions a 19-17 lead and a three-point play from Talbert with 6:08 left in the half gave the Lions a lead they would hold on to going into the locker room.
The Lions pushed their lead to ten (45-35) with 18:55 left in the second half, but a 7-1 run by Tech capped off by a pair of free throws from Bobby Hatchett gave the Wonder Boys a 50-49 lead with 13:56 to go in the game. Both teams traded points for a while before Tech held on to a slim lead for five-minute stretch late. A pair of free-throws from Addison with 44 seconds left cut the ATU lead to just one at 73-72 and Talbert's layup sealed the game.
The Lions shot 44 percent from the field in the game and 31 percent from long-range. Southern had a 43-36 advantage on the boards and a 12-7 advantage in second-chance points.
Up next for the Lions will be a trip to Emporia State this Saturday as Southern will take on the Hornets at 3:30 pm from White Auditorium.
Jordan Talbert's layup with 38 seconds left proved to be the game-winner as the Missouri Southern men's basketball team held on for a 74-73 win over visiting Arkansas Tech tonight at the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Southern (8-1) wins for the sixth time in the last seven meetings against Arkansas Tech (5-4). The Lions had three score in double-figures led by 21 points from Marquis Addison as the senior went 7-7 from the free-throw line. Slim Magee had a double-double with 16 points and ten rebounds, adding three blocks. Talbert finished with 17 points on 7-8 shooting with five boards.
Tech had three score in double-figures, as well, led by 18 points from Bryson Fletcher on 7-9 shooting from the field.
Southern picked up its first lead of the game at 14-13 after a layup from Addison with 11:45 in the first half. A three from Austin Wright gave the Lions a 19-17 lead and a three-point play from Talbert with 6:08 left in the half gave the Lions a lead they would hold on to going into the locker room.
The Lions pushed their lead to ten (45-35) with 18:55 left in the second half, but a 7-1 run by Tech capped off by a pair of free throws from Bobby Hatchett gave the Wonder Boys a 50-49 lead with 13:56 to go in the game. Both teams traded points for a while before Tech held on to a slim lead for five-minute stretch late. A pair of free-throws from Addison with 44 seconds left cut the ATU lead to just one at 73-72 and Talbert's layup sealed the game.
The Lions shot 44 percent from the field in the game and 31 percent from long-range. Southern had a 43-36 advantage on the boards and a 12-7 advantage in second-chance points.
Up next for the Lions will be a trip to Emporia State this Saturday as Southern will take on the Hornets at 3:30 pm from White Auditorium.
Royals finalize deal with Infante
It was a bright day for Missouri sports when two second basemen the New York Yankees were interested in signed with the Cardinals and Royals.
On the same day, the Cardinals added former Dodger second baseman Mark Ellis as a righthanded complement to rookie Kolten Wong, the Royals finalized their deal with former Detroit second baseman Omar Infante:
"We've admired Omar for a long time," Royals general manager Dayton Moore said on Tuesday. "He's always been a winning, championship-type player. We obviously wanted to improve and upgrade at second base, and we've had our eye on him from the very beginning. … It's exciting that he's going to be part of our organization for the next four years."
On the same day, the Cardinals added former Dodger second baseman Mark Ellis as a righthanded complement to rookie Kolten Wong, the Royals finalized their deal with former Detroit second baseman Omar Infante:
"We've admired Omar for a long time," Royals general manager Dayton Moore said on Tuesday. "He's always been a winning, championship-type player. We obviously wanted to improve and upgrade at second base, and we've had our eye on him from the very beginning. … It's exciting that he's going to be part of our organization for the next four years."
The Royals apparently outbid the Yankees for Infante's services. The Yankees reportedly offered a three-year deal at $24 million. That would serve as some payback for the Royals, who a week ago lost a battle for outfielder Carlos Beltran with the Yankees.
The addition of Infante fills one of the Royals' offseason goals of solidifying second base and puts the incumbent, Emilio Bonifacio, in line to become the team's super-utility player in the infield and, if needed, the outfield.
Phillies consider signing Mitchell Boggs
Mitchell Boggs, the set-up man who helped propel the St. Louis Cardinals to the 2011 World Championship may soon have a new home.
Philly.com is reporting the Phillies are looking at Boggs, who started the 2013 season as the Cardinals' closer after Jason Motte's season-ending injury and finished the season with the Colorado Rockies.
Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal says six teams are interested in Boggs.
Philly.com is reporting the Phillies are looking at Boggs, who started the 2013 season as the Cardinals' closer after Jason Motte's season-ending injury and finished the season with the Colorado Rockies.
Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal says six teams are interested in Boggs.
Monday, December 16, 2013
MSSU women win eighth straight
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
Winning their eighth consecutive game, the Missouri Southern Lions women's basketball used a balanced scoring effort to roll past non-conference opponent William Woods 80-57 tonight at Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
The Lions (8-1) were led in scoring by Nicole Hartzog with 18 points, one shy of her career-high 19 set this year against Evangel. The junior guard from Beaverton, Oregon finished 6-of-10 from the field and 3-of-4 from three-point range and added seven rebounds.
Three other Lions finished in double figures as Sharese Jones and Dominique Mosley poured in 16 points each and Shawnee Phillips added 14 points, including going 4-7 from behind the arc. Jones added a game-high nine rebounds. The eight game winning streak is Southern's longest such streak since they started the 2007-08 season with nine consecutive wins.
William Woods (5-3) was led in scoring by Katie Scherder who finished with 17 points on 6-of-7 shooting from the field. Stephanie Copelin chipped in six points and added a team-high seven rebounds while Kendra Wells scored eight points.
With the game tied at eight after the first five minutes of play, Jones hit a layup out of the first media timeout to give Southern the lead, one they would not surrender the rest of the game. The Lions extended their lead to as large as eight at 22-14 after a pair of free throws from Shonte Clay, but the Owls continued to answer the Lions in the first half as Southern only took a four-point lead into the locker room going up 33-29. Hartzog led the Lions with 11 points in the first half as the team shot 38.7% (12-31) from the field.
After the first three minutes of the second half saw the Owls continue to keep pace with the Lions, Southern started to find its stroke from the outside going on a 16-6 run over the next 4:36 to open up a 58-43 lead after a layup from Mosley with 12:04 to play. That run featured six points from Mosley and four from Jones. After a three-pointer from William Woods' Katie Schreder cut the lead to twelve at 58-46, the Lions went on a 14-2 run to take their largest lead of the game at 72-48 as they cruised to the 80-57 victory.
On the game, Southern shot 46.8% (29-62) from the field, while hitting a season-high eight three-pointers and going 14-18 (.778) from the free-throw line. The Lions outrebounded the Owls 39-31 while nabbing 13 steals and dishing out 18 assists.
Southern returns to MIAA action on Saturday when they hit the road for No. 3 Emporia State (9-0, 1-0 MIAA). Tipoff is set for 1:30 p.m. from White Auditorium.
Cardinals finalize signing of Mark Ellis
The St. Louis Cardinals officially shored up their bench today with the signing of former Los Angeles Dodgers second baseman Mark Ellis.
Ellis, 36, provides a right-handed bat off the bench and someone who can spell rookie Kolten Wong on occasion. Though he has not played the other positions as much, Ellis does have experience at shortstop and third base.
Ellis' addition should make for an interesting battle for the available spots on the Cardinals bench. They are expected to promote rookie outfielder Oscar Taveras to the major leagues this year and with Tony Cruz likely assured of remaining the backup catcher, that leaves Ellis, Taveras, Daniel Descalso, Jon Jay, and Shane Robinson, competing for four reserve slots, if the Cardinals, as expected, move Allen Craig back to the outfield and give Matt Adams a full shot at first base. And though he appears the odd man out, the Cardinals have not ruled out Pete Kozma as a contributor in 2014.
Ellis, 36, provides a right-handed bat off the bench and someone who can spell rookie Kolten Wong on occasion. Though he has not played the other positions as much, Ellis does have experience at shortstop and third base.
Ellis' addition should make for an interesting battle for the available spots on the Cardinals bench. They are expected to promote rookie outfielder Oscar Taveras to the major leagues this year and with Tony Cruz likely assured of remaining the backup catcher, that leaves Ellis, Taveras, Daniel Descalso, Jon Jay, and Shane Robinson, competing for four reserve slots, if the Cardinals, as expected, move Allen Craig back to the outfield and give Matt Adams a full shot at first base. And though he appears the odd man out, the Cardinals have not ruled out Pete Kozma as a contributor in 2014.
Axford signs with Cleveland
Former Milwaukee Brewers closer John Axford, who received a new lease on his pitching life with a couple of solid months in the St. Louis bullpen at the close of the 2013 season, signed a contract with the Cleveland Indians.
Axford is expected to be the closer, replacing another former Cardinal, Chris Perez, who was released at the end of the season. Perez was traded to Cleveland in the Mark DeRosa deal.
Axford is expected to be the closer, replacing another former Cardinal, Chris Perez, who was released at the end of the season. Perez was traded to Cleveland in the Mark DeRosa deal.
MSSU softball team to hold winter camp
The Missouri Southern State softball program will host a Winter Camp on January 18 featuring both hitting and pitching camps on the campus of Missouri Southern for ages 8-18.
The MSSU Winter Camp will be held on Saturday, January 18, in Young Gymnasium. Hitting instruction will be go on from 9 am - Noon for a $60 fee. Pitching Instruction will be done in the afternoon from 1 pm - 4 pm for a cost of $75. Those participating in both camps can do so for a $10 discount.
Head Softball Coach, Bill Gray, and assistant coach, Nicole Hudson will be the lead instructors of both the hitting and pitching camps. They will be assisted by members of the 2014 softball team. Participants in the hitting camp should bring a bat, batting gloves and helmet. Participants in the pitching camp must have a catcher with them and an appropriate sized softball to pitch.
All participants signing up by January 9th will receive a camp T-shirt. Registrations following this date are not guaranteed a shirt. Camp is open for campers 8-18. Campers will be grouped according to age and ability. Both camps are limited to 50 participants. Sign up can be done at www.mssusoftballcamps.com. For more information contact Bill Gray 417-625-9873.
Hitting Camp: Hitting camp will be broken down into basic and advanced instruction. All players will receive instruction on stance and swing mechanics. Players will also be given instruction on topics from choosing the proper bat to game time adjustments. Players will be hitting off of tees, soft toss, front toss and pitching machines.
Pitching Camp: Pitchers will work on the basic skills for each pitch focusing on spin, stride, and body position. Emphasis will be put on the fast ball, drop ball, rise ball and change up. Pitchers without a catcher will throw to each other when working on pitches.
MSSU men, 7-1, to entertain Arkansas Tech Tuesday
The Missouri Southern men's basketball team will finish up its non-conference slate of games tomorrow evening when the Lions play host to Arkansas Tech University in a 7 pm tip off at the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Game Information
Teams: Missouri Southern (7-1, 2-0 MIAA), Arkansas Tech (5-3, 1-1 GAC)
Date: Saturday, Dec. 17, 2013
Tip-Off: 7:00 pm
Location: Joplin, Mo.
Site: Leggett & Platt AThletic Center (3,240)
Series Record: MSSU leads 16-7
Coaches: Robert Corn (395-300 overall/at MSSU). Doug Karleskint (74-27, overall and at ATU)
Date: Saturday, Dec. 17, 2013
Tip-Off: 7:00 pm
Location: Joplin, Mo.
Site: Leggett & Platt AThletic Center (3,240)
Series Record: MSSU leads 16-7
Coaches: Robert Corn (395-300 overall/at MSSU). Doug Karleskint (74-27, overall and at ATU)
Media Coverage
MSSU Radio: 97.9 FM Big Dog - Mike McClure - Play by Play
Internet Audio: www.mssulions.com
Webcast: www.mssulions.com
Live Stats: livestats.prestosports.com/mssu
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/missourisouthernlions
Lions on Twitter: @mososports; @mssumensbball
MSSU Radio: 97.9 FM Big Dog - Mike McClure - Play by Play
Internet Audio: www.mssulions.com
Webcast: www.mssulions.com
Live Stats: livestats.prestosports.com/mssu
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/missourisouthernlions
Lions on Twitter: @mososports; @mssumensbball
The Series: Southern is 16-7 overall against Arkansas Tech. The two teams hooked up nearly every year in the early to mid 70's and then became a regular opponent in the Lions' Thanksgiving tournament from 1991-97. Southern last played ATU at the West Texas A&M Classic in 2004, losing 78-63. The Lions are 14-2 at home, 2-4 in Russellville and 0-1 in neutral locations.
MIAA Team Ranks: The Lions lead the MIAA in scoring margin, turnover margin, blocks and offensive rebounds, while ranking second in scoring offense, field goal percentage, field goal defense and steals. Southern ranks third in assists, rebounding, and rebound margin, while ranking fourth in three-point defense and fifth in scoring defense, rebounds allowed, free-throw shooting and assist/turnover ratio.
MIAA Individual Ranks: Marquis Addison ranks seventh in scoring in the MIAA, while ranking third in steals, ninth in free-throw shooting and 11th in three-point shooting. Slim Magee leads the MIAA in field goal percentage and ranks third in blocks. Jordan Talbert ranks fifth in rebounding and fourth in blocks, while ranking second in offensive rebounds. The Lions have four players in the top 25 in the MIAA in scoring.
National Ranks: The Lions, as a team, rank 8th in total blocks in Division II. They also rank 11th in Blocks per game and scoring margin, while ranking 16th in scoring offense, 19th in field goal percentage, 25th in assists per game and 27th in total assists. Individually, Slim Magee ranks second in Division II in field goal percentage, while ranking 22nd in blocks, and 39th in blocks per game.
Season Highs: Austin Wright's seven made three pointers against Washburn is the most in a single-game this year. Slim Magee's seven blocks against Nebraska-Kearney was the most in a single-game, as well.
Passing 1,000: Marquis Addison became the newest member of the 1,000 point club at MSSU with 20 points against Central Missouri last season. He currently has 1,252 points, moving in front of Hiram Ocasio for 11th place all-time in scoring at Southern. He needs 20 points to pass Russell Bland for 10th all-time and is the fourth Lion in the past three seasons to pass 1,000, joining Jason Adams, Skyler Bowlin and Keane Thomann.
Corn Moves Up The Wins Ladder: Coach Robert Corn won his 380th career game against Central Bible and that moved him into fourth place on the MIAA career wins list, passing Truman's Boyd King (1946-71). He now has 395 wins and is second among active coaches (Bob Chipman).
Three Point Streak: The Lions failed to make a three-pointer at Arkansas Tech in their match-up in 2012-13. It was the first time in 403 games that Southern had failed to hit a three pointer, dating back to Jan. 20, 1999 against Missouri S&T. The Lions have had a three in 30-straight games since Arkansas Tech in 2012-13.
Points a Plenty: With the 101 points scored against Ottawa, it is the first time in the program's history the Lions have scored at least 100 points or more in three-straight games. The Lions have scored 100 or more in 65 games in the program's history, including six times in the 85-86 season.
Leggett & Platt Attendance: The Lions averaged 1,745 fans per game last season at the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. That number ranked 15th nationally and is the third season in a row for Southern to rank in the top 20 nationally as the Lions were ranked 17th a season ago, averaging 1,923 fans per game. The Lions were ranked 18th nationally two seasons ago, averaging 1,801 fans per game.
He's on Fire: Austin Wright was perfect from the field against Washburn going 8-8. He was 7-7 from long-range, tying the school record for three-point percentage, but his seven made shots is the most-ever in a perfect performance.
preseason MIAA PicksThe Missouri Southern men's basketball team was picked to finish sixth in the coaches poll and ninth in the media poll in the 2013-14 Preseason MIAA Polls.
Up Next:The Lions will head to Emporia State this Saturday to take on the Hornets at White Auditorium at 3:30 pm.
National Ranks: The Lions, as a team, rank 8th in total blocks in Division II. They also rank 11th in Blocks per game and scoring margin, while ranking 16th in scoring offense, 19th in field goal percentage, 25th in assists per game and 27th in total assists. Individually, Slim Magee ranks second in Division II in field goal percentage, while ranking 22nd in blocks, and 39th in blocks per game.
Season Highs: Austin Wright's seven made three pointers against Washburn is the most in a single-game this year. Slim Magee's seven blocks against Nebraska-Kearney was the most in a single-game, as well.
Passing 1,000: Marquis Addison became the newest member of the 1,000 point club at MSSU with 20 points against Central Missouri last season. He currently has 1,252 points, moving in front of Hiram Ocasio for 11th place all-time in scoring at Southern. He needs 20 points to pass Russell Bland for 10th all-time and is the fourth Lion in the past three seasons to pass 1,000, joining Jason Adams, Skyler Bowlin and Keane Thomann.
Corn Moves Up The Wins Ladder: Coach Robert Corn won his 380th career game against Central Bible and that moved him into fourth place on the MIAA career wins list, passing Truman's Boyd King (1946-71). He now has 395 wins and is second among active coaches (Bob Chipman).
Three Point Streak: The Lions failed to make a three-pointer at Arkansas Tech in their match-up in 2012-13. It was the first time in 403 games that Southern had failed to hit a three pointer, dating back to Jan. 20, 1999 against Missouri S&T. The Lions have had a three in 30-straight games since Arkansas Tech in 2012-13.
Points a Plenty: With the 101 points scored against Ottawa, it is the first time in the program's history the Lions have scored at least 100 points or more in three-straight games. The Lions have scored 100 or more in 65 games in the program's history, including six times in the 85-86 season.
Leggett & Platt Attendance: The Lions averaged 1,745 fans per game last season at the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. That number ranked 15th nationally and is the third season in a row for Southern to rank in the top 20 nationally as the Lions were ranked 17th a season ago, averaging 1,923 fans per game. The Lions were ranked 18th nationally two seasons ago, averaging 1,801 fans per game.
He's on Fire: Austin Wright was perfect from the field against Washburn going 8-8. He was 7-7 from long-range, tying the school record for three-point percentage, but his seven made shots is the most-ever in a perfect performance.
preseason MIAA PicksThe Missouri Southern men's basketball team was picked to finish sixth in the coaches poll and ninth in the media poll in the 2013-14 Preseason MIAA Polls.
Up Next:The Lions will head to Emporia State this Saturday to take on the Hornets at White Auditorium at 3:30 pm.
Sunday, December 15, 2013
Cardinals set to sign Mark Ellis
The St. Louis Cardinals appear to be ready to add a veteran second baseman.
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch is reporting that Mark Ellis, who has been the Dodgers' second baseman for the past two years, is about to sign a one-year contract.
Ellis is expected to provide a righthanded complement to Kolten Wong at second base with Matt Carpenter moving to third to replace the traded David Freese.
Ellis, 36, has also played some at shortstop and third base, but his primary position is second.
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch is reporting that Mark Ellis, who has been the Dodgers' second baseman for the past two years, is about to sign a one-year contract.
Ellis is expected to provide a righthanded complement to Kolten Wong at second base with Matt Carpenter moving to third to replace the traded David Freese.
Ellis, 36, has also played some at shortstop and third base, but his primary position is second.
Friday, December 13, 2013
Royals sign Omar Infante to four-year contract
The New York Yankees may have beaten the Royals in the Carlos Beltran sweepstakes, but this time Kansas City won a free agent the Yankees were after.
The Royals signed Detroit free agent second baseman Omar Infante to a four-year contract today. Reportedly, the fourth year was the sticking point for New York.
Those who remember Infante from his National League days know that, even though he played only second base for the Tigers last year, he can play any position in the infield and outfield.
The Royals signed Detroit free agent second baseman Omar Infante to a four-year contract today. Reportedly, the fourth year was the sticking point for New York.
Those who remember Infante from his National League days know that, even though he played only second base for the Tigers last year, he can play any position in the infield and outfield.
Southern women to play host to William Woods Monday
After opening MIAA play at home last weekend with a pair of victories, the Missouri Southern women's basketball team closes out non-conference play on Monday hosting the William Woods Owls at 5:30 p.m. in the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Game Information
Date: Monday, Dec. 16, 2013
Tip-Off: 5:30 p.m., CT
Location: Joplin, Mo.
Site: Leggett & Platt Athletic Center (3,240)
Series Record: MSSU leads 6-4 (Home: 3-0, Away: 2-3, Neutral: 1-1)
Coaches: Ronda Hubbard (7-1 at MSSU, overall). Dan Chapla (134-38 at William Woods, 211-148 overall).
Tip-Off: 5:30 p.m., CT
Location: Joplin, Mo.
Site: Leggett & Platt Athletic Center (3,240)
Series Record: MSSU leads 6-4 (Home: 3-0, Away: 2-3, Neutral: 1-1)
Coaches: Ronda Hubbard (7-1 at MSSU, overall). Dan Chapla (134-38 at William Woods, 211-148 overall).
Media Coverage
MSSU Radio: KZYM-AM 1230 The Talker, Mike McClure, Play-by-Play
Live Stats: http://livestats.prestosports.com/mssu
Live Video: N/A
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/missourisouthernlions
Lions on Twitter: @mososports
Live Stats: http://livestats.prestosports.com/mssu
Live Video: N/A
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/missourisouthernlions
Lions on Twitter: @mososports
Last time out for the Lions (7-1): Helping Missouri Southern women's basketball secure their first win over a ranked opponent since February 26, 2011, senior center Shonte Clay led four Lions in double figures as Southern downed No. 20 Washburn 68-59 this afternoon at the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. Clay finished with 19 points on 8-of-10 shooting from the field. Also in double figures for the Lions (7-1, 2-0 MIAA) wereAlexis Fitzpatrick, who finished with a career-best 16 points. Sharese Jones added 13 points and a team-high eight rebounds. Dominique Mosley chipped in 11 points and six boards.
With the Lions up 33-28 at halftime, the Ichabods came out of the halftime break on fire as they reeled off the first seven points of the half to take their first lead since they started the game up 2-0. A three-pointer from Fitzpatrick ended Washburn's run as a free throw from Washburn tied the game at 36 before the teams traded three pointers to deadlock the game again at 39 with 16:04 to play. The Lions answered with a 21-8 run over the next nine and half minutes to take a 60-47 lead with 6:35 to play. That run featured 13 points from Clay, including eight straight points from the Chicago native.
Washburn refused to go away quietly as they responded with a 10-0 run over the ensuing 3:37 to pull within 60-57 with 2:58 to play. Southern answered back with a 6-0 run of their own to seal the game as Nicole Hartzog hit back-to-back layups and Fitzpatrick nailed a jumper to secure the win. A pair of late free throws from Jones iced the game as the Lions won their seventh consecutive game 68-59.
Last time out for the Owls (5-2): No. 13 Columbia College built a 20-point lead early in the second half that it would not relinquish, as they spoil No. 19-ranked William Woods University women's basketball team's American Midwest Conference opener, by defeating the Owls 76-61 at Anderson Arena on Thursday night (Dec.5).
Columbia College (3-3, 1-0 AMC) used an 11-2 run out of the break to push its 11-point half time lead to a game-high 22 points at 54-32. William Woods (5-2, 0-1 AMC) would fight back to pull within 10 at 63-53 with eight minutes to play, but they could never get the Columbia lead under to single-digits as they drop its conference opener by 15 points. William Woods shot a season-low 30 percent on 18-of-60 from the floor. The Owls were even worse from three-point land, where they shot a season-high 35 three pointers, yet connected on just 10 of them for 28.6 percent.
Juniors Blake French and Paige Stewart came off the bench to provide the Owls with 26 points, a team-high 16 points came from French, while Stewart chipped in with a season-high 10 points. Senior Katie Scherder earned her first double-double of the year by recording a 12-point, 10-rebound effort. Stephanie Copelin and Andraquay Quinnine also posted double-figures by scoring 10 and 11 respectively.
The Coaches: Ronda Hubbard (7-1) is in her 13th year on the staff at Missouri Southern and was promoted to the position of Interim Head Coach on July 2, 2013 after the retirement of Maryann Mitts. During her 12 years with the Lions, she has helped the team to a 189-145 record, including winning marks and a trip to the MIAA post season tournament in all but one of those 12 seasons. In 2000-01, Hubbard helped the University of Texas-Pan American post its most wins in a season since becoming an NCAA Division I institution in 1985, and the second most victories in school history. Prior to her stint at Texas-Pan American, she served on current Lions head coach Maryann Mitts' staff as an assistant at Rockhurst University from 1996-2000. There, she helped the Lady Hawks post a 68-45 record and advance to the 1997-98 Sweet 16.
Dan Chapla (134-38 at William Woods, 211-148 overall) is in his sixth year at William Woods University. He became the 10th William Woods University head women's basketball coach in school history during the summer of 2008. Chapla has guided the program to heights never before seen, as he has taken two teams to the NAIA Sweet Sixteen (2011, 2013) and has produced three NAIA All-Americans (Rachel Baker, Sharon Andrews, Priscila Santos). William Woods has won at least 20 games every season under the direction of Chapla, and has taken the Owls to the NAIA National Tournament for a school-record five consecutive years. Prior to arriving at WWU, Chapla was the head coach for six years at Culver-Stockton College in Canton, Mo. In addition, Chapla has been an assitant men's basketball coach at Ottawa University, Central Missouri and Culver-Stockton.
The series between the schools: The Lions hold a 6-4 edge over the Owls in their all-time meetings. The two schools have not met on the hardwood in nearly 25 seasons as their last match-up came on February 28, 1989 at the NAIA District 16 Tournament that ended the Lions season as William Woods won the game 79-70. Southern is 3-0 at home, 2-3 on the road and the two schools have split a pair of meetings at a neutral site. Southern's last win over William Woods came at the McKendree College Tourney in Lebanon, Ill. on Nov. 21, 1986 as they won 55-52.
Scouting William Woods: The Owls come into Monday's game ranked 25th in the latest NAIA Coaches Poll having not played since December 5 when they fell in their first conference game at home to Columbia College (Mo. ) 76-61. WWU is led in scoring and rebounding by senior guard Katie Scherder, who is averaging a team-high 12.6 ppg and 6.9 rpg. The Owls average 71.3 points per game while allowing 62.6. They are shooting 40% from the field, 30.9% from three-point range and 76.2% from the free-throw line on the year.
Lions sit atop MIAA standings: The Lions opened up MIAA play at home last weekend winning a pair of games over Nebraska-Kearney and #20 Washburn. They sit atop the MIAA standings as one of only two 2-0 teams with Lindenwood being the other.
MIAA Team Rankings: The Lions rank 1st in the MIAA in free-throw percentage (.778), 2nd in FG percentage (.480), assists per game (17.5) & 3-pt FG defense (.274) and 4th in scoring offense (77.0 ppg.).
MIAA Individual Rankings: Samantha Soyez continues to lead the MIAA in assists averaging 6.0 apg as she has dished 48 helpers on the season. Shonte Clay leads the MIAA in FG perc. as she is shooting 70.0% from the field hitting 42-60 on the year. Nicole Hartzog ranks second in the MIAA in free-throw percentage at .963% hitting 26-of-27 on the year. Alexis Fitzpartick ranks second in the MIAA in assist/turnover ration at 4.9 as she has 34 assists and only seven turnovers on the year. Sharese Jones ranks third in the league in rebounding grabbing 9.4 rpg. Mosley is fifth grabbing 8.5 rpg. Mosley ranks third in the MIAA in scoring averaging 18.8 ppg. Jones is 7th at 15.5 ppg. Clay is 14th with 13.4 ppg.
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