Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Monday, December 28, 2015
Drury golfer transfers to Missouri Southern
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
Missouri Southern Men's Golf coach Mike Wheeler has announced the signing of Baron Weaver for the spring portion of the 2015-16 season.
Weaver joins the Lions after one season at Great Lakes Valley Conference member Drury. While playing for the Panthers, Weaver participated in two tournaments The Arch Cup hosted by Maryville University in Eureka, Missouri and the University of Illinois-Springfield Island Getaway in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico. At The Arch Cup Weaver finished tied for 12th as he carded a two round 153 (77-76) out of a 66 player field and at the UIS Island Getaway he finished with a two round 160 (83-77).
"Baron comes to us bringing experience, knowledge, and a love for the game of golf," said Coach Wheeler. "As a competitor who's skills continue to improve, he can definitely make us better as a team. We welcome him to the Pride."
Prior to joining the Panthers Weaver was the 2015 Missouri State High Schools Activity Association (MSHSAA) Class 4 individual state champion as he shot a two round 141 (72-69) at the Sedalia Country Club helping the Glendale Falcons to a third place finish. It was only the third time a Falcon had won the MSHSAA individual title and the first time in 27 years. The 2014 season saw Glendale when their first ever school sectional title as Weaver tied for 37th at the MSHSAA Class 4 State Championships with a total of 167 (77-90) and the Falcons tied for eighth place at The Dalhousie Golf Club in Cape Girardeau. In both seasons, Weaver helped the Falcons win the All-City team title.
Outside of the school season, Baron was a three time Horton Smith Cup Team pick and Missouri Cup Team pick. He was also a 2014 AJGA presidential leadership award nominee and earned Golfer of the Year for the Heart of the Ozarks Junior Golf Association. Weaver was a two time (2011 & 2012) Optimist Junior World Qualifier. Weaver qualified in both 2014 and 2015 for the Missouri Am Tournament. In 2015 he finished tied for 13th at the 2015 Tom Hoover Ozark Invitational with a two round total of 144 (71-73) at Westwood Hills Country Club in Poplar Bluff.
Weaver is the son of Andrew and Kimber Weaver and plans to major in marketing at Southern. He has three younger siblings Courtney, Berkley, and Baylor.
Missouri Southern Men's Golf coach Mike Wheeler has announced the signing of Baron Weaver for the spring portion of the 2015-16 season.
Weaver joins the Lions after one season at Great Lakes Valley Conference member Drury. While playing for the Panthers, Weaver participated in two tournaments The Arch Cup hosted by Maryville University in Eureka, Missouri and the University of Illinois-Springfield Island Getaway in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico. At The Arch Cup Weaver finished tied for 12th as he carded a two round 153 (77-76) out of a 66 player field and at the UIS Island Getaway he finished with a two round 160 (83-77).
"Baron comes to us bringing experience, knowledge, and a love for the game of golf," said Coach Wheeler. "As a competitor who's skills continue to improve, he can definitely make us better as a team. We welcome him to the Pride."
Prior to joining the Panthers Weaver was the 2015 Missouri State High Schools Activity Association (MSHSAA) Class 4 individual state champion as he shot a two round 141 (72-69) at the Sedalia Country Club helping the Glendale Falcons to a third place finish. It was only the third time a Falcon had won the MSHSAA individual title and the first time in 27 years. The 2014 season saw Glendale when their first ever school sectional title as Weaver tied for 37th at the MSHSAA Class 4 State Championships with a total of 167 (77-90) and the Falcons tied for eighth place at The Dalhousie Golf Club in Cape Girardeau. In both seasons, Weaver helped the Falcons win the All-City team title.
Outside of the school season, Baron was a three time Horton Smith Cup Team pick and Missouri Cup Team pick. He was also a 2014 AJGA presidential leadership award nominee and earned Golfer of the Year for the Heart of the Ozarks Junior Golf Association. Weaver was a two time (2011 & 2012) Optimist Junior World Qualifier. Weaver qualified in both 2014 and 2015 for the Missouri Am Tournament. In 2015 he finished tied for 13th at the 2015 Tom Hoover Ozark Invitational with a two round total of 144 (71-73) at Westwood Hills Country Club in Poplar Bluff.
Weaver is the son of Andrew and Kimber Weaver and plans to major in marketing at Southern. He has three younger siblings Courtney, Berkley, and Baylor.
Thursday, December 24, 2015
MSSU baseball ranked 24th in preseason poll
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
The Missouri Southern baseball team has been ranked No. 24 in the Collegiate Baseball Newspaper's Preseason Division II Coaches Poll, the organization announced today.
The Lions were 40-14 last season and won both the regular season and MIAA post season titles. Southern advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the second time in the past three years.
Southern finished the 2015 season ranked No. 24 nationally and the Lions return three out of their four top starting pitchers that led the MIAA in ERA, shutouts, strikeouts per nine innings, strikeout to walk ratio, WHIP and walks allowed (fewest) per nine innings. Cody Hutchinson, last year's MIAA Pitcher of the Year, returns to headline a starting rotation that also returns All-MIAA and All-Region pitcher Payton Walkerand All-American utility player Chris Hoffman. The trio combined for a 24-5 overall record last year, while striking out 194 and walking just 42.
Hoffman and Hutchinson were both All-American's, as well as designated hitter/first basemen Jesse Rall. Rall hit .376 with 16 home runs and 61 RBIs, tying the MSSU single-season record for homers, while Hoffman hit .426 with 83 hits, 56 runs scored and eight home runs to go along with 39 RBIs. He led the team with 18 stolen bases in just 22 attempts.
Southern is the top ranked MIAA program with Emporia State coming in ranked at No. 38. Other Central Region ranked opponents include Minnesota State (5), St. Cloud (6), Southern Arkansas (14), Henderson State (16), Southern (24), and Emporia State (38).
The team, altogether, returns six All-MIAA performers, as well as five position starters and three starting pitchers. Southern begins the 2016 season at home by playing host to Bemidji State on Feb. 13-15.
The Missouri Southern baseball team has been ranked No. 24 in the Collegiate Baseball Newspaper's Preseason Division II Coaches Poll, the organization announced today.
The Lions were 40-14 last season and won both the regular season and MIAA post season titles. Southern advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the second time in the past three years.
Southern finished the 2015 season ranked No. 24 nationally and the Lions return three out of their four top starting pitchers that led the MIAA in ERA, shutouts, strikeouts per nine innings, strikeout to walk ratio, WHIP and walks allowed (fewest) per nine innings. Cody Hutchinson, last year's MIAA Pitcher of the Year, returns to headline a starting rotation that also returns All-MIAA and All-Region pitcher Payton Walkerand All-American utility player Chris Hoffman. The trio combined for a 24-5 overall record last year, while striking out 194 and walking just 42.
Hoffman and Hutchinson were both All-American's, as well as designated hitter/first basemen Jesse Rall. Rall hit .376 with 16 home runs and 61 RBIs, tying the MSSU single-season record for homers, while Hoffman hit .426 with 83 hits, 56 runs scored and eight home runs to go along with 39 RBIs. He led the team with 18 stolen bases in just 22 attempts.
Southern is the top ranked MIAA program with Emporia State coming in ranked at No. 38. Other Central Region ranked opponents include Minnesota State (5), St. Cloud (6), Southern Arkansas (14), Henderson State (16), Southern (24), and Emporia State (38).
The team, altogether, returns six All-MIAA performers, as well as five position starters and three starting pitchers. Southern begins the 2016 season at home by playing host to Bemidji State on Feb. 13-15.
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
Cardinals sign free agent pitcher Mike Leake
The St. Louis Cardinals announced today that they have signed free-agent pitcher Mike Leake to a five-year deal for the 2016-20 seasons with a mutual option for 2021.
"We are pleased to announce the addition of Mike Leake to our starting rotation," stated Cardinals Senior Vice President/General Manager John Mozeliak. "Mike is considered to be one of the game's most consistent performers and he is certainly no stranger to the National League and the N.L. Central. His proven experience and all-around ability should be a real plus for us."
Leake owns a career mark of 64-52 with a 3.88 ERA in six seasons with the Cincinnati Reds (2010-15) and San Francisco Giants (2015), ranking 5th in the National League in both innings pitched (1,083.2) and games started (172) during that time span. Leake went 11-10 with a 3.70 ERA in 30 starts (192.0 IP) between the Reds and Giants in 2015.
Throughout his career, Leake has a 3.48 career ERA on the road, including a 3.19 mark in six career games (42.1 IP) at Busch Stadium III. His 3.48 road ERA since 2010 is ranked 5th among all N.L. pitchers (min. 500 IP). The 5-10, 190-pound native of Southern California was the Reds 1st round draft selection (8th player overall) in 2009 out of Arizona State University and after pitching in the prospect-rich Arizona Fall League that year, he vaulted directly to the majors, where he debuted in April of 2010.
Leake, who has won 10 or more games four times in six seasons, including a career-high 14 in 2013, has made 30-plus starts in each of the past four (2012-15) seasons. He ranked 2nd among N.L. pitchers in fewest pitches/inning (14.3) last season and was 8th in double plays/9 IP (1.03) and 11th in ground ball pct. (52.1). At the plate, Leake ranks 1st in hits (77), 1st in doubles (16), 3rd in slugging pct. (.321), 4th in HR's (6) and 4th in RBI (23) among all pitchers since 2010.
Sunday, December 20, 2015
MSSU men move into first place in MIAA with 92-72 win
The Missouri Southern men's basketball team had season-highs in assists (19), blocks (9) and three pointers (13) and the Lions moved into sole possession of first place in the MIAA with a 92-72 win over visiting Washburn on Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Southern (8-4, 5-1 MIAA) was led by 21 points and 11 rebounds from Taevaunn Prince as the senior from Toronto went 7-13 from the field and 6-6 from the free throw line.Charlie Brown scored 16 points and added nine rebounds, while Taylor Luster had 11. Blaine Miller and Bruce Marshallboth scored 11 points off the bench, while Marshall added a career-high four blocks.
Washburn (7-3, 3-2 MIAA) had four score in double-figures, led by 20 points from Cameron Wiggins.
After the Ichabods scored the game's opening bucket, Austin Wright answered back with a three on the Lions' next possession. Southern led 5-4 with 17:35 left in the half when Brown went on a run of his own, scoring 12-straight MSSU points and the Lions led 15-6 with 15:33 to go, forcing a Washburn timeout.
The Lions' lead was 26-16 after a three pointer from Prince with 10:32 left in the half, and a three the next trip down from Luster gave Southern a 29-16 lead.
Back-to-back threes from Luster and Miller gave the Lions a 38-21 lead with just under six minutes to go in the half. A dunk from Marshall and a three from him on the next trip down gave the Lions a 43-29 lead with 1:30 to go in the half.
Washburn got the MSSU lead down to 12 (43-31) with 1:20 to go, but a bucket from Prince with 33 seconds to go and a running jumper on the baseline with time expiring from Vince Fritz gave the Lions a 47-31 halftime lead.
Southern led by 16 (54-38) with 16:11 left in the second half, but the Lions went on a 19-0 run and led 73-38 with 10:52 left. Washburn cut the Southern lead to 16 (80-64) with 4:22 left, but a three from Blaine Miller gave the Lions the final tally.
The Lions shot 45 percent from the field and 38 percent from long range making a season-high 13 deep balls. The Lions also had nine blocks and 19 assists, having a 49-33 advantage on the boards, scoring 19 second-chance points. The Southern bench out scored Washburn, 38-10.
Southern will be off for the Christmas holiday and the Lions will be back in action on January 2, traveling to Nebraska-Kearney. Tip off is slated for 7:30 pm.
Saturday, December 19, 2015
MSSU women fall to Washburn 64-42
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
The Missouri Southern women's basketball team had an extremely cold shooting second half and the Lions fell 64-42 today to visiting Washburn on Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Southern (9-3, 3-3 MIAA) was led offensively by Sharese Jonesas she scored 15 points and added six rebounds. Deb Holcombscored 12 points. Bri Shavers, Kayla Kivinski and Desirea Buerge scored four points each.
Washburn (5-4, 3-2 MIAA) had three score in double-figures, led by 13 points from Julie Ravn. Jayna Smith had a team-high 13 rebounds.
The Lions scored the game's first five points as Morice hit a layup and Jones nailed a three pointer. Washburn went ahead 8-7, however, after a three from Erin Dohnalek with 5:24 left to go in the quarter.
Southern tied the score at ten after a pair of free throws from Jones, but the Ichabods hit a three as time expired in the quarter to lead 13-10 after one.
Back-to-back threes from Holcomb to start the second quarter put Southern up 16-13 and a layup from Shavers with just over 7:00 to go put the Lions up 20-15. A three from Jones with 3:50 to go in the half put the Lions up 23-19 and a put back from Jones the next trip down gave Southern a six-point lead (25-19).
A pair of free throws for the Ichabods tied the score at 25, but two freebies for Holcomb gave the Lions a 27-25 lead at the break.
Washburn opened up the third quarter on a 17-6 run and led 42-33 with a minute to go in the quarter. The Ichabods would lead 44-35 after three.
The Ichabods' lead reached 15 (50-35) after a pair of free throws with 7:49 in the fourth quarter. The Lions' cold shooting continued, but a three from Desirea Buerge with 3:56 to go in the fourth made the score 57-42, Washburn. It was the first field goal for the Lions in 9:36.
The Lions shot 24 percent from the field and 81 percent from the free throw line. Southern forced 17 turnovers and scored 16 points off of the miscues.
Southern will be off for the Christmas holiday and the Lions will be back in action on January 2, traveling to Nebraska-Kearney. Tip off is slated for 5:30 pm.
The Missouri Southern women's basketball team had an extremely cold shooting second half and the Lions fell 64-42 today to visiting Washburn on Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Southern (9-3, 3-3 MIAA) was led offensively by Sharese Jonesas she scored 15 points and added six rebounds. Deb Holcombscored 12 points. Bri Shavers, Kayla Kivinski and Desirea Buerge scored four points each.
Washburn (5-4, 3-2 MIAA) had three score in double-figures, led by 13 points from Julie Ravn. Jayna Smith had a team-high 13 rebounds.
The Lions scored the game's first five points as Morice hit a layup and Jones nailed a three pointer. Washburn went ahead 8-7, however, after a three from Erin Dohnalek with 5:24 left to go in the quarter.
Southern tied the score at ten after a pair of free throws from Jones, but the Ichabods hit a three as time expired in the quarter to lead 13-10 after one.
Back-to-back threes from Holcomb to start the second quarter put Southern up 16-13 and a layup from Shavers with just over 7:00 to go put the Lions up 20-15. A three from Jones with 3:50 to go in the half put the Lions up 23-19 and a put back from Jones the next trip down gave Southern a six-point lead (25-19).
A pair of free throws for the Ichabods tied the score at 25, but two freebies for Holcomb gave the Lions a 27-25 lead at the break.
Washburn opened up the third quarter on a 17-6 run and led 42-33 with a minute to go in the quarter. The Ichabods would lead 44-35 after three.
The Ichabods' lead reached 15 (50-35) after a pair of free throws with 7:49 in the fourth quarter. The Lions' cold shooting continued, but a three from Desirea Buerge with 3:56 to go in the fourth made the score 57-42, Washburn. It was the first field goal for the Lions in 9:36.
The Lions shot 24 percent from the field and 81 percent from the free throw line. Southern forced 17 turnovers and scored 16 points off of the miscues.
Southern will be off for the Christmas holiday and the Lions will be back in action on January 2, traveling to Nebraska-Kearney. Tip off is slated for 5:30 pm.
Friday, December 18, 2015
MSSU men's track and field to hold Vault Camp
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
Missouri Southern men's track and field coach Bryan Schiding has announced the MOSO New Year's Vault Camp to be held inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
The camp will be a day camp and take place on January 2-3, 2016.
This camp is a two-day camp designed four coaches and athletes of any level who want to improve their technique and knowledge in the vault. The coaching staff will use a fundamental approach and proven drill series that will develop your vaulting.
The camp will take place indoors and will utilize a rope, rings and pulley system, as well as other apparatus. Athletes are encouraged to bring their own poles, but if they are not able, they can be provided. Campers must provide their own workout gear, and bring sneakers as well as running shoes. Everyone attending will also be required to provide proof of insurance before beginning the camp.
Cost is $200 for student-athletes and $100 for coaches. The cost will include lunch and drinks. Camp begins at 9 am each day and ends at 5 pm. All those in attendance will receive a flash drive that will include presentations on it with lots of great information.
Missouri Southern men's track and field coach Bryan Schiding has announced the MOSO New Year's Vault Camp to be held inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
The camp will be a day camp and take place on January 2-3, 2016.
This camp is a two-day camp designed four coaches and athletes of any level who want to improve their technique and knowledge in the vault. The coaching staff will use a fundamental approach and proven drill series that will develop your vaulting.
The camp will take place indoors and will utilize a rope, rings and pulley system, as well as other apparatus. Athletes are encouraged to bring their own poles, but if they are not able, they can be provided. Campers must provide their own workout gear, and bring sneakers as well as running shoes. Everyone attending will also be required to provide proof of insurance before beginning the camp.
Cost is $200 for student-athletes and $100 for coaches. The cost will include lunch and drinks. Camp begins at 9 am each day and ends at 5 pm. All those in attendance will receive a flash drive that will include presentations on it with lots of great information.
MSSU men to play host to Washburn
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
The Missouri Southern men's basketball team will play host to Washburn on Saturday afternoon in MIAA action. Tip off from Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center is slated for 7:30 pm.
Game Information
Teams: Missouri Southern (7-4, 4-1 MIAA) vs. Washburn (7-2, 3-1 MIAA)
Date: Thursday, December 19, 2015
Tip-Off: 3:00 pm
Location: Joplin, Mo.
Site: Robert Corn Court/Leggett & Platt Athletic Center (3,240)
Series Record: Washburn leads 47-28
Coaches:Jeff Boschee (27-15 overall/at MSSU). Bob Chipman (780-332/overall)
Media Coverage
MSSU Radio:FM 99.7 KBTN - Mike McClure - Play-by-play
Internet Audio:www.mssulions.com
Live Video:www.mssulions.com
Live Stats: www.mssulions.com
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/mososports
Lions on Twitter:@mososports; @mssumensbball
The Series
Washburn holds a 47-28 lead in the series, but Southern has won 12 out of the last 16 games. Washburn leads 17-16 in games played in Joplin and holds a 29-9 vs. MSSU in Topeka. The Lions lead 2-1, on neutral floors. The Lions have had few winning streaks in the series. The longest, five games, spanned the years of 2007-09. The Ichabods won 11-straight from February 1984 through February 1989. Missouri Southern's most convincing victory was 37 points, 110-73, in 2013-14. Washburn's largest victory margin was 38 points, 94-56, and came in the 88-89 season.
Taevaunn Amongst The Nation's Best
Taevaunn Prince leads the country in free throws made, while ranking second in free throws attempted and third in defensive rebounds per game. He ranks fourth in total rebounds and sixth in both total points and rebounds per game. He ranks 10th in points per game, 17th in total field goals, 23rd in double-doubles and 26th in total minutes.
NCAA Individual Stat Leaders
Taevaunn Prince isn't the only Lion that is amongst the National Leaders. Austin Wrightranks 50th in three pointers attempted, while ranking 41st in minutes per game and 31st in total three pointers made. He ranks 26th in total minutes.
NCAA Team Stat Leaders
The Lions rank 19th in free throws made, while ranking 21st in free throws attempted and 35th in three point field goal percentage.
MIAA Individual Leaders:
Prince leads the MIAA in defensive rebounds per game, double doubles, free throws made and attempted, points per game, rebounds per game, total field goals made, total points and total rebounds. He ranks third in field goal percentage, and second in total minutes. Austin Wrightleads the MIAA in total three pointers made, as well as total minutes. He ranks third in three point shooting, as well as ranking second in three point field goal attempts.
MIAA Team Stat Leaders
The Lions lead the MIAA in total three pointers made, as well as total rebounds. The team ranks second in free throws attempted and made, as well as three point defense. They rank third in total steals, scoring, and three point percentage, while ranking fourth in three pointers attempted and fifth in free throw percentage.
Record Breakers
Senior shooting guard Austin Wright set two records for the Lions last year, including the single-season three point record (79) and the single game three-point record (9). He also owns the single-season three point percentage mark (.493) and is also the current career-leader in that category (.455).
Record Breakers II
Wright is climbing the charts in career three pointers made at MSSU. He moved into the top five last year and currently sits in third at 207 career treys, after passing Keith Allen. He needs 7 to pass Jason Adams for 2nd place and 18 to break Skyler Bowlin's record of 224.
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 94-straight games since Arkansas Tech in 2012-13.
Taevaunn's On Fire
Taevaunn Prince is averaging 24.9 and 10.9 rebounds this season. He has led the Lions in rebounding every game but one, and in points in nine of 11.
Mr. 200
Austin Wright had seven three pointers against Central Oklahoma to give him 201 in his career. He currently has 207 and is 18 away from breaking the all-time record at MSSU.
Blocks By The 100
Greg Renfroe picked up his 100th career block this past week against Northeastern State. He currently has 104 and is 11 away from tying Keane Thomann for fourth all-time in MSSU history. Renfroe had 62 blocks as a junior, second all-time in a single-season at MSSU.
20-Point Man
Taevaunn Prince has scored 20 points or more in every game but one this season.
Rebound This
Taevaunn Prince has set his career-high in rebounds in two separate games this year, tying the mark of 17 in two of the four games.
Season-Ending Injury
Southern swing man LJ Ross will sit out the 2015-16 season after pre-season knee surgery revealed more damage than thought.
Huge Fan Support
Missouri Southern ranks 11th nationally in average attendance with 1,69 fans per game coming to the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. The Lions rank 7th in total attendance with 10,168 fans this season. Southern ranks fourth in the MIAA in average attendance.
Go Get Em' Charlie Brown
Sophomore Charlie Brown had a career-high 27 points in a win over St. Cloud State to start the season.
Lions In The D2 Basketball Writers Regional Poll
The Missouri Southern men's basketball program is ranked 7th in the US Basketball Writers Association week five Central Region Poll. Central Missouri is ranked third, while Northwest Missouri is fourth and Pittsburg State is ninth.
Up Next
Southern will take a break for the Holiday's and will be back on the road on January 2 and 4 playing at Nebraska-Kearney and Fort Hays State.
The Missouri Southern men's basketball team will play host to Washburn on Saturday afternoon in MIAA action. Tip off from Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center is slated for 7:30 pm.
Game Information
Teams: Missouri Southern (7-4, 4-1 MIAA) vs. Washburn (7-2, 3-1 MIAA)
Date: Thursday, December 19, 2015
Tip-Off: 3:00 pm
Location: Joplin, Mo.
Site: Robert Corn Court/Leggett & Platt Athletic Center (3,240)
Series Record: Washburn leads 47-28
Coaches:Jeff Boschee (27-15 overall/at MSSU). Bob Chipman (780-332/overall)
Media Coverage
MSSU Radio:FM 99.7 KBTN - Mike McClure - Play-by-play
Internet Audio:www.mssulions.com
Live Video:www.mssulions.com
Live Stats: www.mssulions.com
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/mososports
Lions on Twitter:@mososports; @mssumensbball
The Series
Washburn holds a 47-28 lead in the series, but Southern has won 12 out of the last 16 games. Washburn leads 17-16 in games played in Joplin and holds a 29-9 vs. MSSU in Topeka. The Lions lead 2-1, on neutral floors. The Lions have had few winning streaks in the series. The longest, five games, spanned the years of 2007-09. The Ichabods won 11-straight from February 1984 through February 1989. Missouri Southern's most convincing victory was 37 points, 110-73, in 2013-14. Washburn's largest victory margin was 38 points, 94-56, and came in the 88-89 season.
Taevaunn Amongst The Nation's Best
Taevaunn Prince leads the country in free throws made, while ranking second in free throws attempted and third in defensive rebounds per game. He ranks fourth in total rebounds and sixth in both total points and rebounds per game. He ranks 10th in points per game, 17th in total field goals, 23rd in double-doubles and 26th in total minutes.
NCAA Individual Stat Leaders
Taevaunn Prince isn't the only Lion that is amongst the National Leaders. Austin Wrightranks 50th in three pointers attempted, while ranking 41st in minutes per game and 31st in total three pointers made. He ranks 26th in total minutes.
NCAA Team Stat Leaders
The Lions rank 19th in free throws made, while ranking 21st in free throws attempted and 35th in three point field goal percentage.
MIAA Individual Leaders:
Prince leads the MIAA in defensive rebounds per game, double doubles, free throws made and attempted, points per game, rebounds per game, total field goals made, total points and total rebounds. He ranks third in field goal percentage, and second in total minutes. Austin Wrightleads the MIAA in total three pointers made, as well as total minutes. He ranks third in three point shooting, as well as ranking second in three point field goal attempts.
MIAA Team Stat Leaders
The Lions lead the MIAA in total three pointers made, as well as total rebounds. The team ranks second in free throws attempted and made, as well as three point defense. They rank third in total steals, scoring, and three point percentage, while ranking fourth in three pointers attempted and fifth in free throw percentage.
Record Breakers
Senior shooting guard Austin Wright set two records for the Lions last year, including the single-season three point record (79) and the single game three-point record (9). He also owns the single-season three point percentage mark (.493) and is also the current career-leader in that category (.455).
Record Breakers II
Wright is climbing the charts in career three pointers made at MSSU. He moved into the top five last year and currently sits in third at 207 career treys, after passing Keith Allen. He needs 7 to pass Jason Adams for 2nd place and 18 to break Skyler Bowlin's record of 224.
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 94-straight games since Arkansas Tech in 2012-13.
Taevaunn's On Fire
Taevaunn Prince is averaging 24.9 and 10.9 rebounds this season. He has led the Lions in rebounding every game but one, and in points in nine of 11.
Mr. 200
Austin Wright had seven three pointers against Central Oklahoma to give him 201 in his career. He currently has 207 and is 18 away from breaking the all-time record at MSSU.
Blocks By The 100
Greg Renfroe picked up his 100th career block this past week against Northeastern State. He currently has 104 and is 11 away from tying Keane Thomann for fourth all-time in MSSU history. Renfroe had 62 blocks as a junior, second all-time in a single-season at MSSU.
20-Point Man
Taevaunn Prince has scored 20 points or more in every game but one this season.
Rebound This
Taevaunn Prince has set his career-high in rebounds in two separate games this year, tying the mark of 17 in two of the four games.
Season-Ending Injury
Southern swing man LJ Ross will sit out the 2015-16 season after pre-season knee surgery revealed more damage than thought.
Huge Fan Support
Missouri Southern ranks 11th nationally in average attendance with 1,69 fans per game coming to the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. The Lions rank 7th in total attendance with 10,168 fans this season. Southern ranks fourth in the MIAA in average attendance.
Go Get Em' Charlie Brown
Sophomore Charlie Brown had a career-high 27 points in a win over St. Cloud State to start the season.
Lions In The D2 Basketball Writers Regional Poll
The Missouri Southern men's basketball program is ranked 7th in the US Basketball Writers Association week five Central Region Poll. Central Missouri is ranked third, while Northwest Missouri is fourth and Pittsburg State is ninth.
Up Next
Southern will take a break for the Holiday's and will be back on the road on January 2 and 4 playing at Nebraska-Kearney and Fort Hays State.
MSSU women to call on the force during Star Wars Night
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
In a galaxy far, far away the Missouri Southern Women will do battle with Washburn on Star Wars Night on Robert Corn Court inside The Leggett & Platt Athletic Center on Saturday at 1 p.m.
Last Time Out for the Rebel Forces
The Lions (9-2, 3-2 MIAA) are coming off a 71-58 win over the evil empire of third-ranked Emporia State. Southern shot a perfect 7-for-7 from three point range and shot 50 percent (19-for-38) from the field and out rebounded the Lady Hornets 34-28. It was the first time this season that ESU had allowed any opponent to shoot 50 percent from the field and out rebound them. The Lions were led offensively by Deb Holcomb as the junior scored 20 points on 6-8 shooting and a perfect 5-5 from behind the arc. Chelsey Henry scored 11 points, while Bri Shavers had ten points and seven rebounds.Sharese Jones chipped in with nine points and five boards, going 5-6 from the free throw line.
Last Time Out for Washburn
Despite a strong second half push to overcome a double-digit deficit in the third quarter, the Ichabod Women's Basketball team couldn't complete the comeback on the road and fell, 66-58, to Pittsburg State on Wednesday, Dec. 16. WU (6-4, 2-2 MIAA) outshot the Gorillas from the field, 37.3 to 36.1 percent and roared back from a 10-point deficit midway thru the third quarter to tie it, 42-all, early in the fourth before falling late. Dohnalek and Bowens each had 14 points to lead the team, as Felisha Gibbs grabbed a team-high 12 rebounds on the night. Haley Pfau finished with nine points and Jayna Smith had nine rebounds, just missing her third consecutive double-digit rebounding effort. As a team, Washburn continued its season-long streak of winning the rebounding battle, outdoing the Gorillas on the boards, 46-35, and outscored the Gorillas, 32-26, in the paint.
The Coaches
WU - Ron McHenry, 380-98 (16th Season)
MSSU - Ronda Hubbard, 48-17 (3rd Season)
The Series
The Ichabods hold a 45-27 overall advantage over the Lions. The Lions are 17-18 in Joplin against Washburn and are 5-9 inside The Leggett & Platt Athletic Center, while only being 10-27 in Topeka, Kan. Southern's last win over Washburn at home came in the 13-14 season as the Lions upset then 20th ranked Washburn 68-59. That win snapped a six game win streak for the Ichabods. The Lions snapped a four game losing streak at Lee Arena last season as they upset then seventh-ranked Washburn 66-62 as they moved to 8-0, 2-0 on the season. The longest winning streak for the Lions was six games from Jan. 27, 1978 thru Jan. 26, 1980. The Ichabods longest winning streak is at seven, from Jan. 30, 1987 thru Feb. 12, 1990. Under Coach Hubbard the Lions are 2-0 against Washburn.
Last Time Lions Faced Washburn
Topeka, Kan. - What was billed as a battle of two of the nation's top defenses lived up to expectations as the Missouri Southern Lions (8-0, 2-0 MIAA) came away with a 66-62 win over seventh ranked Washburn University (7-1, 1-1 MIAA) Saturday evening inside Lee Arena.
Leading the way with her second-straight career night wasJenson Maydew with 14 points, 12 in the first half. Maydew was also the leader in rebounds with eight while Nic Hartzogadded seven, and Sharese Jones pulled down six.
Both teams traded the lead back and forth as Camila Lacerdagave the Lions the 25-24 lead on a pair of free throws headed into halftime. For the half, Southern shot 35 percent (7-20) from the field and 57 percent (4-7) from downtown. Maydew was a perfect 3-3 from three point range to lead the Lions with 12 point and Hartzog led the way on the boards with six.
Southern came out of the locker room and pushed their lead up to seven at 31-24 on a three by Jordan Dinyer at the 19:14 mark. After a layup from Washburn, Jones answered with her own as the Lions once again led by seven with just over 18 minutes to play.
Washburn made a 7-0 run that included a jumper from Honor Duvall and threes from Casyn Buchman and Taylor Ignoto to give the Ichabods a 38-36 lead with 14:33 to play. The Lions answered right back with an 6-0 run of their own as the teams tied the game for the eighth, 46-46, and ninth, 48-48, time of the game before the Ichabods would take their largest lead of the night at 57-50 with 5:22 to play on a layup by Ignoto.
Southern whittled the lead down after a three from Dinyer, a pair of free throws from Hartzog, and a free throw from Lacerda. The Lions took the lead again at 58-57 as Jones sunk a layup from Hartzog with 3:21 to play. After a pair of free throws form Lex Fitzpatrick Southern had a 62-57 lead, but a jumper from Erika Lane and a three pointer from Buchman with just 53 seconds left tied the game for a tenth time at 62-62.
Coming out of a time out Lacerda had an open look from beyond the arc on the left wing that hit the front of the rim. Duvall controlled the rebound for Washburn before Hartzog came away with the steal. A missed layup from Hartzog was rebounded by Jones as she was fouled by Duvall to give the Lions free throws with 25 seconds left. After converting the double bonus Washburn missed a jumper to tie the game Maydew came up with the rebound and found a streaking Lacerda down the right side for a wide open layup and the 66-62 win.
Probable Starters
Washburn (6-4, 2-2 MIAA)
4 Erika Lane G 5-10 Jr. (Topeka, Kan.)
10 Haley Pfau G/F 5-11 Sr. (Oskaloosa, Kan.)
21 Julie Ravn G 5-9 Jr. (Horsens, Denmark)
23 Felisha Gibbs C 6-2 Jr. (Parkin, Ark.)
24 Jayna Smith F 5-10 Sr. (Holton, Kan.)
Missouri Southern (9-2, 3-2 MIAA)
11 Kenya Wilson-Brown G 5-5 Sr. (Arlington, Texas)
14 Tami Morice G 5-11 Sr. (Naperville, Ill.)
24 Deb Holcomb G 5-7 Jr. (Dallas, Texas)
30 Bri Shavers F 6-0 So. (Carrollton, Texas)
44 Sharese Jones G 5-8 Sr. (St. Charles, Mo.)
In a galaxy far, far away the Missouri Southern Women will do battle with Washburn on Star Wars Night on Robert Corn Court inside The Leggett & Platt Athletic Center on Saturday at 1 p.m.
Last Time Out for the Rebel Forces
The Lions (9-2, 3-2 MIAA) are coming off a 71-58 win over the evil empire of third-ranked Emporia State. Southern shot a perfect 7-for-7 from three point range and shot 50 percent (19-for-38) from the field and out rebounded the Lady Hornets 34-28. It was the first time this season that ESU had allowed any opponent to shoot 50 percent from the field and out rebound them. The Lions were led offensively by Deb Holcomb as the junior scored 20 points on 6-8 shooting and a perfect 5-5 from behind the arc. Chelsey Henry scored 11 points, while Bri Shavers had ten points and seven rebounds.Sharese Jones chipped in with nine points and five boards, going 5-6 from the free throw line.
Last Time Out for Washburn
Despite a strong second half push to overcome a double-digit deficit in the third quarter, the Ichabod Women's Basketball team couldn't complete the comeback on the road and fell, 66-58, to Pittsburg State on Wednesday, Dec. 16. WU (6-4, 2-2 MIAA) outshot the Gorillas from the field, 37.3 to 36.1 percent and roared back from a 10-point deficit midway thru the third quarter to tie it, 42-all, early in the fourth before falling late. Dohnalek and Bowens each had 14 points to lead the team, as Felisha Gibbs grabbed a team-high 12 rebounds on the night. Haley Pfau finished with nine points and Jayna Smith had nine rebounds, just missing her third consecutive double-digit rebounding effort. As a team, Washburn continued its season-long streak of winning the rebounding battle, outdoing the Gorillas on the boards, 46-35, and outscored the Gorillas, 32-26, in the paint.
The Coaches
WU - Ron McHenry, 380-98 (16th Season)
MSSU - Ronda Hubbard, 48-17 (3rd Season)
The Series
The Ichabods hold a 45-27 overall advantage over the Lions. The Lions are 17-18 in Joplin against Washburn and are 5-9 inside The Leggett & Platt Athletic Center, while only being 10-27 in Topeka, Kan. Southern's last win over Washburn at home came in the 13-14 season as the Lions upset then 20th ranked Washburn 68-59. That win snapped a six game win streak for the Ichabods. The Lions snapped a four game losing streak at Lee Arena last season as they upset then seventh-ranked Washburn 66-62 as they moved to 8-0, 2-0 on the season. The longest winning streak for the Lions was six games from Jan. 27, 1978 thru Jan. 26, 1980. The Ichabods longest winning streak is at seven, from Jan. 30, 1987 thru Feb. 12, 1990. Under Coach Hubbard the Lions are 2-0 against Washburn.
Last Time Lions Faced Washburn
Topeka, Kan. - What was billed as a battle of two of the nation's top defenses lived up to expectations as the Missouri Southern Lions (8-0, 2-0 MIAA) came away with a 66-62 win over seventh ranked Washburn University (7-1, 1-1 MIAA) Saturday evening inside Lee Arena.
Leading the way with her second-straight career night wasJenson Maydew with 14 points, 12 in the first half. Maydew was also the leader in rebounds with eight while Nic Hartzogadded seven, and Sharese Jones pulled down six.
Both teams traded the lead back and forth as Camila Lacerdagave the Lions the 25-24 lead on a pair of free throws headed into halftime. For the half, Southern shot 35 percent (7-20) from the field and 57 percent (4-7) from downtown. Maydew was a perfect 3-3 from three point range to lead the Lions with 12 point and Hartzog led the way on the boards with six.
Southern came out of the locker room and pushed their lead up to seven at 31-24 on a three by Jordan Dinyer at the 19:14 mark. After a layup from Washburn, Jones answered with her own as the Lions once again led by seven with just over 18 minutes to play.
Washburn made a 7-0 run that included a jumper from Honor Duvall and threes from Casyn Buchman and Taylor Ignoto to give the Ichabods a 38-36 lead with 14:33 to play. The Lions answered right back with an 6-0 run of their own as the teams tied the game for the eighth, 46-46, and ninth, 48-48, time of the game before the Ichabods would take their largest lead of the night at 57-50 with 5:22 to play on a layup by Ignoto.
Southern whittled the lead down after a three from Dinyer, a pair of free throws from Hartzog, and a free throw from Lacerda. The Lions took the lead again at 58-57 as Jones sunk a layup from Hartzog with 3:21 to play. After a pair of free throws form Lex Fitzpatrick Southern had a 62-57 lead, but a jumper from Erika Lane and a three pointer from Buchman with just 53 seconds left tied the game for a tenth time at 62-62.
Coming out of a time out Lacerda had an open look from beyond the arc on the left wing that hit the front of the rim. Duvall controlled the rebound for Washburn before Hartzog came away with the steal. A missed layup from Hartzog was rebounded by Jones as she was fouled by Duvall to give the Lions free throws with 25 seconds left. After converting the double bonus Washburn missed a jumper to tie the game Maydew came up with the rebound and found a streaking Lacerda down the right side for a wide open layup and the 66-62 win.
Probable Starters
Washburn (6-4, 2-2 MIAA)
4 Erika Lane G 5-10 Jr. (Topeka, Kan.)
10 Haley Pfau G/F 5-11 Sr. (Oskaloosa, Kan.)
21 Julie Ravn G 5-9 Jr. (Horsens, Denmark)
23 Felisha Gibbs C 6-2 Jr. (Parkin, Ark.)
24 Jayna Smith F 5-10 Sr. (Holton, Kan.)
Missouri Southern (9-2, 3-2 MIAA)
11 Kenya Wilson-Brown G 5-5 Sr. (Arlington, Texas)
14 Tami Morice G 5-11 Sr. (Naperville, Ill.)
24 Deb Holcomb G 5-7 Jr. (Dallas, Texas)
30 Bri Shavers F 6-0 So. (Carrollton, Texas)
44 Sharese Jones G 5-8 Sr. (St. Charles, Mo.)
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Cardinals Caravan to visit Joplin
(From Southern News Service)
The St. Louis Cardinals will include Joplin once again as part of their 2016 tour.
Players and team representatives will offer a program at noon Saturday, Jan. 16, in Taylor Performing Arts Center.
Fans will have a chance to hear from the players, and autographs will be available for kids. KGCS-TV, the campus television station, will be on hand to provide coverage.
More information on players planning to attend will be available after the first of the year. The Cardinals Caravan visit is sponsored by the Missouri Farm Bureau and a partnership including the Cardinals and Zimmer Radio. Games can be heard locally on 1230, The Talker, in 2016.
The St. Louis Cardinals will include Joplin once again as part of their 2016 tour.
Players and team representatives will offer a program at noon Saturday, Jan. 16, in Taylor Performing Arts Center.
Fans will have a chance to hear from the players, and autographs will be available for kids. KGCS-TV, the campus television station, will be on hand to provide coverage.
More information on players planning to attend will be available after the first of the year. The Cardinals Caravan visit is sponsored by the Missouri Farm Bureau and a partnership including the Cardinals and Zimmer Radio. Games can be heard locally on 1230, The Talker, in 2016.
Prince double-double lifts MSSU to 78-73 win
The Missouri Southern men's basketball team held off a late rally from visiting Emporia State and the Lions defeated the Hornets 78-73 tonight on Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Southern (7-4, 4-1 MIAA) completes the double-header sweep with the Lions' women defeating the third ranked Lady Hornets earlier in the night. It was the first time the two teams have swept Emporia since the 2011 season (2/12/11).
Taevaunn Prince led the way for the Lions with 31 points and 10 rebounds, going 10-15 from the field and 11-16 from the free throw line. Charlie Brown scored 23 points and added six boards, going 6-11 from the field and 9-9 from the charity stripe. Austin Wright scored seven points and dished out five assists, tying a career-high in helpers.
Emporia (4-5, 2-2 MIAA) was led offensively by 21 points from Terrence Moore on 9-17 shooting.
A jumper from Prince gave the Lions a seven-point lead (13-6) with 14:28 left in the half, but a jumper from the Hornets' Moore cut the Southern lead to just two (15-13) two minutes later.
A jumper from Prince with 11:38 to go capped a 5-0 run for the Lions and gave the team a seven-point lead (20-13). Emporia got to within three with four minutes to go, but a 12-0 run for the Lions to end the half made the score 43-28, Southern at the break.
A layup from Prince with 15:11 left in the second half gave the Lions a 48-36 lead and a pair of free throws from Vince Fritzwith 10:44 left made the Southern lead 16 (56-40). A 28-13 run by the Hornets, however, got ESU back to within one (69-68) with 2:23 to go in the game.
A pair of free throws from DJ Feitl the next trip down pushed the lead back to three and a defensive stop, followed by a three-point play from Brown gave the Lions a 74-68 lead with 1:35 to go.
Two free throws from Brown pushed the Lions' lead to eight (76-68) with 40 seconds left, and the Lions held on for the win.
Southern shot 52 percent from the field and 38 percent from long-range, while making 79 percent of its free throws. The Lions forced 11 ESU turnovers, scoring 19 points off of the miscues.
Southern will be back in action this weekend when the Lions play host to Washburn University. Tip off is slated for 3 pm.
Long-range shooting lifts MSSU women to win over third-ranked Emporia State
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
The Missouri Southern women's basketball team went 7-7 from long-range and took out third-ranked Emporia State tonight on Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Southern (9-2, 3-2 MIAA) defeats the Hornets for the first time since 2011 when the Lions won 82-74 in overtime at home.
The Lions were led offensively by Deb Holcomb as the junior scored 20 points on 6-8 shooting and a perfect 5-5 from behind the arc. Chelsey Henry scored 11 points, while Bri Shavers had ten points and seven rebounds. Sharese Joneschipped in with nine points and five boards, going 5-6 from the free throw line.
Emporia (8-2, 2-2 MIAA) moves its record to 5-5 in Joplin since 2001 when the team was ranked in the WBCA national poll. The Hornets had three score in double-figures, led by 13 points each from Addie Lackey and Kathryn Flott.
The Lions trailed 5-4 after a bucket from the Lady Hornets' Addie Lackey with 7:45 left in the 1st quarter. However, Southern went on a 7-0 run capped off by a pair of freebies from Kenya Wilson-Brown and led 12-5 with 3:34 to go in the quarter. A pair of free throws from Henry and a defensive stop as time expired gave the Lions a 16-11 lead after one.
A three pointer from Jenson Maydew gave the Lions a ten-point lead (24-14) with 5:59 left in the second quarter. After the Hornets had got to within four (24-20), a layup from Maydew and a three from Holcomb pushed the Lions' lead back to nine (29-20) with 3:17 to go.
Another three from Holcomb, this with 1:12 left pushed the lead back to ten (32-22) and forced an Emporia timeout. A pair of freebies from Bri Shavers with 16 seconds left in the half pushed the lead back to ten (34-24) but a three from the Hornets as time expired gave Southern a 34-27 lead going into the locker room.
A three pointer from Holcomb gave Southern a 41-29 lead with 6:52 to go in the third quarter and a jumper from Holcomb gave the Lions a 16-point lead (47-31) with 4:55 to go in the quarter. Emporia got the Southern lead back to 12, but a free throw from Jones and a late bucket from Morice gave the Lions a 54-39 lead after three.
Southern started the fourth quarter cold and only had two free throws from Shavers through the first three minutes as Emporia opened up the quarter on a 7-2 run. ESU cut the Lions' lead to just five (56-51) with 3:54 left before a three from Holcomb with 3:37 to go gave Southern an eight-point advantage.
Another three from Holcomb, this time as time was expiring on the shot cock, gave the Lions a 62-55 lead with two minutes to go in the game. A pair of freebies from Wilson-Brown and a defensive stop for the Lions gave Southern a 64-56 lead with 1:17 to go and Southern broke the press to find a wide-open Henry with a big bucket to push the lead back to ten.
The Lions made their free throws down the stretch and held on for the win.
Southern will be back in action this weekend when the Lions play host to Washburn University. Tip off is slated for 1 pm.
MSSU women to play number three Emporia State tonight
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
The Missouri Southern Women's Basketball team returns home tonight to face the third ranked Emporia State Lady Hornets tonight on Robert Corn Court inside The Leggett & Platt Athletic Center at 5:30 p.m.
Last Time Out
Missouri Southern
The Lions (8-2, 2-2 MIAA) are coming off a two point loss to then 17th ranked Missouri Western, 63-61, on Saturday in St. Joseph. Southern was led in scoring by the double-double effort from senior Sharese Jones as she scored 24 and pulled down ten rebounds. She went 8-12 from the field and 3-3 from long range, while shooting 5-5 from the free throw line. Freshman Desirea Buerge scored 11 points on 3-5 from long range, while senior Kenya Wilson-Brown and freshmanChelsey Henry scored eight points each. Southern shot 36 percent from the field and 73 percent from the free throw line in the game.
Emporia State
?The #3 Lady Hornets improved to 8-1 on the season with a 71-55 victory over Central Missouri on Saturday at White Auditorium, improving to 2-1 in MIAA play.
Kelsey Barnwell and Sandra Ngoie led all scorers with 18 points each. Ngoie earned a double-double on the night with ten rebounds and 18 points. Barnwell shot four for eight from the arc, four for four from the free throw line, and five for ten from the field. Addie Lackey had 16 points and four assists for the Lady Hornets, shooting seven for eight from the stripe. Kathryn Flott led all players with 13 rebounds.
The Coaches
ESU - Jory Collins, 135-37 (6th Season)
MSSU - Ronda Hubbard, 47-17 (3rd Season)
The Series
Emporia State holds a 52-23 advantage over the Lions in the series between the two schools. However, the Lady Hornets are 19-16 in Joplin and are 10-5 on Robert Corn Court inside The Legett & Platt Athletic Center.
ESU has won the previous six games with Southern and holds a 9-1 advantage over the Lions since the start of the current decade. The longest winning streak for the Lady Hornets came back at the begining of the series as they rattled off 10 straight wins from Jan. 22, 1977 thru Jan. 17, 1981. The Lions longest winning streak came in the early to mid 90s as they strung together eight wins between Jan. 11, 1992 and Feb. 24, 1996. Joplin is a dangerous place for ESU when they are ranked. The Lady Hornets are 5-4 in Joplin since 2001 when they are ranked in the Top 25. Emporia State is currently ranked at No. 3 in the USA Today/ WBCA D2 Coaches Poll.
Last Time Against The Lady Hornets
Joplin, Mo. - The 22nd ranked Missouri Southern Lions Women's Basketball team (8-2, 2-1 MIAA) dropped their MIAA home opener 75-53 to the number one ranked Emporia State Lady Hornets (10-0, 3-0 MIAA) Saturday afternoon on Robert Corn Court inside The Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
The first half saw one tie and three lead changes before a layup from Kathryn Flott would give the Lady Hornets the lead for good at the 7:06 mark. ESU pushed their lead up to seven on a jumper from Kelsey Barnwell before a free throw from Jensen Maydew would cut the lead to six to end the first half scoring at 28-22.
Emporia State came out in the second half and raced to a 17 point lead, 46-29, on a 17-7 run in the first seven minutes of play. The Lions would claw back as a three point play from Nic Hartzogwould pull Southern within 12 at 50-38 with 8:33 to play.
The Lady Hornets would close the game on a 9-6 run for the 22 point win, all six of the Lions final points came Tami Morice as she connected on an old fashioned three point play and less than one minute later on a shot from the corner in front of Southern's bench.
Southern was led by Morice who finished with 12 points, while Hartzog finished with 10. Leading the way on the boards for the Lions was Sharese Jones with six and Shawnee Phillips pulled down four.
Emporia State shot 51 percent (26-51) from the field for the game, whie the Lions shot 38 percent (17-45). ESU also out rebounded Southern 33-24.
Projected Starters
#3 Emporia State (8-1, 2-1 MIAA)
2 Kelly Moten G 5-9 R-Jr (Gary, Ind.)
5 Sandra Ngoie F 6-2 Sr. (Stockholm, Sweden)
14 Megan Holloway G 5-9 Jr. (Salina, Kan.)
24 Addie Lackey G 5-9 So. (Hillsboro, Kan.)
30 Kathryn Flott F 6-1 R-Jr. (Olpe, Kan.)
Missouri Southern (8-2, 2-2 MIAA)
11 Kenya Wilson-Brown G 5-5 Sr. (Arlington, Texas)
14 Tami Morice G 5-11 Sr. (Naperville, Ill.)
24 Deb Holcomb G 5-7 Jr. (Dallas, Texas)
30 Bri Shavers F 6-0 So. (Carrollton, Texas)
44 Sharese Jones G 5-8 Sr. (St. Charles, Mo.)
The Missouri Southern Women's Basketball team returns home tonight to face the third ranked Emporia State Lady Hornets tonight on Robert Corn Court inside The Leggett & Platt Athletic Center at 5:30 p.m.
Last Time Out
Missouri Southern
The Lions (8-2, 2-2 MIAA) are coming off a two point loss to then 17th ranked Missouri Western, 63-61, on Saturday in St. Joseph. Southern was led in scoring by the double-double effort from senior Sharese Jones as she scored 24 and pulled down ten rebounds. She went 8-12 from the field and 3-3 from long range, while shooting 5-5 from the free throw line. Freshman Desirea Buerge scored 11 points on 3-5 from long range, while senior Kenya Wilson-Brown and freshmanChelsey Henry scored eight points each. Southern shot 36 percent from the field and 73 percent from the free throw line in the game.
Emporia State
?The #3 Lady Hornets improved to 8-1 on the season with a 71-55 victory over Central Missouri on Saturday at White Auditorium, improving to 2-1 in MIAA play.
Kelsey Barnwell and Sandra Ngoie led all scorers with 18 points each. Ngoie earned a double-double on the night with ten rebounds and 18 points. Barnwell shot four for eight from the arc, four for four from the free throw line, and five for ten from the field. Addie Lackey had 16 points and four assists for the Lady Hornets, shooting seven for eight from the stripe. Kathryn Flott led all players with 13 rebounds.
The Coaches
ESU - Jory Collins, 135-37 (6th Season)
MSSU - Ronda Hubbard, 47-17 (3rd Season)
The Series
Emporia State holds a 52-23 advantage over the Lions in the series between the two schools. However, the Lady Hornets are 19-16 in Joplin and are 10-5 on Robert Corn Court inside The Legett & Platt Athletic Center.
ESU has won the previous six games with Southern and holds a 9-1 advantage over the Lions since the start of the current decade. The longest winning streak for the Lady Hornets came back at the begining of the series as they rattled off 10 straight wins from Jan. 22, 1977 thru Jan. 17, 1981. The Lions longest winning streak came in the early to mid 90s as they strung together eight wins between Jan. 11, 1992 and Feb. 24, 1996. Joplin is a dangerous place for ESU when they are ranked. The Lady Hornets are 5-4 in Joplin since 2001 when they are ranked in the Top 25. Emporia State is currently ranked at No. 3 in the USA Today/ WBCA D2 Coaches Poll.
Last Time Against The Lady Hornets
Joplin, Mo. - The 22nd ranked Missouri Southern Lions Women's Basketball team (8-2, 2-1 MIAA) dropped their MIAA home opener 75-53 to the number one ranked Emporia State Lady Hornets (10-0, 3-0 MIAA) Saturday afternoon on Robert Corn Court inside The Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
The first half saw one tie and three lead changes before a layup from Kathryn Flott would give the Lady Hornets the lead for good at the 7:06 mark. ESU pushed their lead up to seven on a jumper from Kelsey Barnwell before a free throw from Jensen Maydew would cut the lead to six to end the first half scoring at 28-22.
Emporia State came out in the second half and raced to a 17 point lead, 46-29, on a 17-7 run in the first seven minutes of play. The Lions would claw back as a three point play from Nic Hartzogwould pull Southern within 12 at 50-38 with 8:33 to play.
The Lady Hornets would close the game on a 9-6 run for the 22 point win, all six of the Lions final points came Tami Morice as she connected on an old fashioned three point play and less than one minute later on a shot from the corner in front of Southern's bench.
Southern was led by Morice who finished with 12 points, while Hartzog finished with 10. Leading the way on the boards for the Lions was Sharese Jones with six and Shawnee Phillips pulled down four.
Emporia State shot 51 percent (26-51) from the field for the game, whie the Lions shot 38 percent (17-45). ESU also out rebounded Southern 33-24.
Projected Starters
#3 Emporia State (8-1, 2-1 MIAA)
2 Kelly Moten G 5-9 R-Jr (Gary, Ind.)
5 Sandra Ngoie F 6-2 Sr. (Stockholm, Sweden)
14 Megan Holloway G 5-9 Jr. (Salina, Kan.)
24 Addie Lackey G 5-9 So. (Hillsboro, Kan.)
30 Kathryn Flott F 6-1 R-Jr. (Olpe, Kan.)
Missouri Southern (8-2, 2-2 MIAA)
11 Kenya Wilson-Brown G 5-5 Sr. (Arlington, Texas)
14 Tami Morice G 5-11 Sr. (Naperville, Ill.)
24 Deb Holcomb G 5-7 Jr. (Dallas, Texas)
30 Bri Shavers F 6-0 So. (Carrollton, Texas)
44 Sharese Jones G 5-8 Sr. (St. Charles, Mo.)
Saturday, December 12, 2015
Twenty-eight MSSU athletes graduate
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
The Missouri Southern department of athletics graduated 28 current or former students today as Missouri Southern State University conducted its Winter Commencement inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Amongst the list are student-athletes from the cheerleading squad, softball, women's basketball, men's and women's track, men's basketball, football and soccer.
Leading the list is former women's basketball player Kristen Hanna. Hanna graduated Magna Cum Laude and also graduated as part of the Honors Program. She has spent the past two years working as a student in the communications department at KGCS, the campus television network, and has been the lead commentator for Southern football and basketball broadcasts.
Men's track and field All-American Nick Polizzi, a native of Germany, graduated Cum Laude with a degree in biochemistry.
The Missouri Southern department of athletics graduated 28 current or former students today as Missouri Southern State University conducted its Winter Commencement inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Amongst the list are student-athletes from the cheerleading squad, softball, women's basketball, men's and women's track, men's basketball, football and soccer.
Leading the list is former women's basketball player Kristen Hanna. Hanna graduated Magna Cum Laude and also graduated as part of the Honors Program. She has spent the past two years working as a student in the communications department at KGCS, the campus television network, and has been the lead commentator for Southern football and basketball broadcasts.
Men's track and field All-American Nick Polizzi, a native of Germany, graduated Cum Laude with a degree in biochemistry.
Four reach double figures at MSSU men win 85-72
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
The Missouri Southern men's basketball team got four in double-figures and two with 20 points or more as the Lions took out Missouri Western 85-72 inside MWSU Fieldhouse tonight in St. Joseph.
Southern (6-4, 3-1 MIAA) was led by Taevaunn Prince as the senior scored 24 points on 8-10 shooting and 8-12 from the free-throw line. He added nine rebounds and five assists.Charlie Brown scored 20 points on 6-11 shooting and 7-7 from the charity stripe, while Austin Wright added 19. Wright went 4-5 from the three point line, giving him 206 in his career. DJ Feitl scored 12 points.
Western (3-7, 1-3 MIAA) was led by Aaron Emmanuel's 23 points on 9-14 shooting.
Both teams traded buckets for the first part of the opening half, before the Lions utilized a 10-2 run capped off by a jumper from Prince to go up 30-22 with 6:56 left in the half. A free throw from Brown with 3:16 left gave the Lions a nine-point lead (37-28), but a bucket from the Griffons' Emmanuel made the halftime score 42-37.
Western cut the Lions' lead to just two (48-46) after a bucket from Emmanuel with 15:21 left in the second, but a layup from Prince with 13:31 to go pushed the Lions' lead back to ten (58-48). A three from Wright gave the Lions a 68-52 lead and a jumper from Feitl gave Southern a 17-point advantage (73-56) with 7:26 left. A free throw from Prince with 5:41 left gave the Lions their largest lead of the afternoon (18) when they led 74-56.
Southern shot 57 percent from the field and 47 percent from long-range. The Lions made 69 percent of their free throws.
The Lions will be back in action on Wednesday night when Southern plays host to Emporia State. Tip off from Robert Corn Court, inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center is slated for 7:30 pm.
MSSU women fall 63-61 to Missouri Western
The Missouri Southern women's basketball team came oh, so close to upsetting No. 17 Missouri Western tonight, but the Lions fell just short in the effort, losing 63-61 inside the MWSU Fieldhouse in St. Joseph.
The Lions (8-2, 2-2 MIAA) were led in scoring by the double-double effort from Sharese Jones as she scored 24 and pulled down ten rebounds. She went 8-12 from the field and 3-3 from long range, while shooting 5-5 from the free throw line.Desirea Buerge scored 11 points on 3-5 from long range, while Kenya Wilson Brown and Chelsey Henry scored eight points each.
Western (9-0, 4-0 MIAA) had two score in double-figures, led by 24 points from LaQuinta Jefferson.
The Griffons opened up a 6-0 lead to start the game, but a three from Deb Holcomb and a bucket from Jones got the Lions to within one (6-5) with 5:43 left in the first quarter. Western went on a 5-0 run, before a 6-0 run from the Lions tied the game at 11 after one.
A free throw from Bri Shavers gave Southern a 12-11 lead early in the second quarter and the two teams traded buckets for the next three minutes, before a 7-0 run from Southern put the Lions up 22-16 after a pair of freebies from Wilson-Brown with 5:23 to go in the quarter. The game was tied with a minute to go after a three from Buerge, but a pair of free throws from the Griffons gave Western a 30-28 lead at the break.
Southern led by four (37-33) with 4:50 to go in the third quarter after a free throw from Jones. Western, came back and led by four with 2:53 to go, but a three from Jones the next trip down cut the Western lead to one (43-42) with 2:36 to go in the quarter. Neither team would score the rest of the third.
The Griffons opened up the fourth quarter on fire, and led by eight (52-44) after a pair of free throws from Jefferson. Western led by nine (57-48) with 4:58 to go, but that's when the Lions started their come back. A three pointer from Jones with 3:17 to go got Southern within four (57-53) and a pair of free throws from Henry made the score 61-57 with 48 seconds left. Back-to-back layups from Wilson-Brown and Jones, the last coming with three seconds left made the score 62-61, but the Griffons would make one more free throw to seal the win.
Southern shot 36 percent from the field and 73 percent from the free throw line in the game.
The Lions will be back in action on Wednesday night when Southern plays host to No. 3 Emporia State. Tip off fromRobert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center is slated for 5:30 pm.
Friday, December 11, 2015
MSSU women to play 17th-ranked Missouri Western
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
The Missouri Southern Lions will travel to St. Joseph to take on 17th ranked Missouri Western at the MWSU Fieldhouse on Saturday at 3 p.m.
The Lions (8-1, 2-1 MIAA) are coming off a 48-43 victory Wednesday night over Northwest Missouri State. SeniorSharese Jones led the way for Southern with 14 points, while sophomore Bri Shavers added a career-high 10 points. SeniorKenya Wilson-Brown pulled down a career best eight rebounds to go with her seven points, five assists, and four steals. The Lions shot 31 percent from the field and 78 percent from the free throw line and forced 23 Northwest Missouri turnovers, scoring 19 points on the miscues. Southern had a 35-23 advantage on the boards, including a 14-2 advantage on the offensive boards, leading to a 17-0 lead in second-chance points.
17th ranked Missouri Western (8-0, 3-0 MIAA) handed Pittsburg State their first loss of the season Thursday night 83-75 in St. Joseph. The Griffons led by as many as 21 in the second half but let Pittsburg State back into the game in the fourth quarter. Missouri Western led by 16 to open the final frame, a lead that quickly dropped to nine with 4:29 left in the game. The Griffons would extend the lead to 13 with 3:11 left but a 13-6 Pitt State run pulled the Gorillas within six with :45 left. Missouri Western would made four free throws down the stretch, two by LaQuinta Jefferson and two by Sarafina Handy to claim the eighth win of the season.
The Series
This is the 85th meeting between the sister schools, with Missouri Western holding a 49-32 advantage in the series. Three MWSU wins in the 05-06 and 06-07 seasons were vacated by the NCAA. The longest winning streak for Missouri Western is 12 games from Jan. 13, 1997 thru Feb. 27, 2002 and Southern's longest winning streak was eight games, Feb. 6, 2010 thru Feb. 15, 2014. The streak ended with a 61-56 at Missouri Western in the first meeting last season. Southern holds a 23-17 advantage over their sister school in Joplin and have won the last seven inside The Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. However, the Lions have struggled at MWSU winning only eight times since the series started in 1977. The Lions are 7-1 against Missouri Western in the current decade, that is the best start of any decade in series history.
Last Time vs. Missouri Western
The Missouri Southern Women's Basketball team (16-6, 10-5 MIAA) defeated visiting Missouri Western (11-10, 6-9 MIAA) 81-69 Saturday afternoon on Robert Corn Court inside The Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
In a game that saw five ties in the first seven minutes, Missouri Western took control at the 11:13 mark of the first half as they built and maintained a six point lead until the 5:23 mark of the half. Southern started to whittle away at the lead as the Lions took over at the 2:33 mark on a three pointer from Camila Lacerda. Southern closed the first half on a 12-0 run to take a 37-31 lead into the locker room.
Following a technical foul on LaQuinta Jefferson after the first half buzzer sounded, Nic Hartzog sank the two free throws to start the second period. that would ignite a 9-0 run to start the half and make it a 21-0 run over seven and half minutes of play. That would be Southern's largest lead of the game at 17, 49-32, before Western would scratch its way back to within seven using a 14-4 run at 53-46 with just over 12 minutes to play. The Lions would answer as they pushed the lead back to 15, 62-47, using a 9-1 run that was ignited by a jumper fromLex Fitzpatrick. During that run Hartzog went 4-4 from the charity stripe and Jenson Maydew dialed it up from long distance right in front of the Southern bench to end the threat.
Lacerda led the way offensively for the Lions as she finished with a career-high 25 points while Hartzog added 20. Maydew led the way on the board as she pulled down eight to go with her eight points on the day. Fitzpatrick and Lacerda combined for nine out of Southern's 13 assists on the day while Hartzog came up with four out of the seven steals for the team.Sharese Jones added nine points and four rebounds for The Green & Gold despite early foul trouble.
For the game Southern finished 21-51 from the field for 41 percent and came within three of setting a new single game record for free throws made as they sank 35-42. The Lions also out rebounded Missouri Western 34-32.
The Coaches
MWSU - Rob Edmisson, 49-40 (4th Season) / 246-59 (11th Season)
MSSU - Ronda Hubbard, 47-16 (3rd Season)
Projected Starters
Missouri Western (8-0, 3-0 MIAA)
3 LaQuinta Jefferson G 6-0 Sr. (Murfreesboro, Tenn.)
5 Sarafina Handy G 5-9 Sr. (Flossmoor, Ill.)
22 Chelsea Dewey G 5-8 Jr. (Gower, Mo.)
30 Miliakere Koyamainavure F 5-9 Sr. (Suva, Fiji)
33 Julia Torres F 6-3 So. (Sao Paulo, Brazil)
Missouri Southern (8-1, 2-1 MIAA)
11 Kenya Wilson-Brown G 5-5 Sr. (Arlington, Texas)
14 Tami Morice G 5-11 Sr. (Naperville, Ill.)
24 Deb Holcomb G 5-7 Jr. (Dallas, Texas)
30 Bri Shavers F 6-0 So. (Carrollton, Texas)
44 Sharese Jones G 5-8 Sr. (St. Charles, Mo.)
MSSU men's basketball heads to Missouri Western
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
The Missouri Southern men's basketball program will head to St. Joseph on Saturday to take on the Missouri Western Griffons. Tip off is slated for 5 pm.
Game Information
Teams: Missouri Southern (5-4, 2-1 MIAA) vs. Missouri Western (3-6, 1-2 MIAA)
Date: Saturday, December 12, 2015
Tip-Off:5:00 pm
Location: St. Joseph, Mo.
Site: Missouri Western Fieldhouse (3,270)
Series Record: Southern leads 45-43
Coaches:Jeff Boschee (25-15 overall/at MSSU). Brett Weiberg (24-39 at MWSU/overall* - 4-year Record)
Media Coverage
MSSU Radio:FM 99.7 KBTN - Mike McClure - Play-by-play
Internet Audio:www.mssulions.com
Live Video:www.mssulions.com
Live Stats: www.mssulions.com
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/mososports
Lions on Twitter:@mososports; @mssumensbball
The Series
Southern leads the series with Western 45-43. The, Lions have won the last 13 out of 16 match-ups. Southern is 34-11 at home, but just 11-32 in St. Joseph. Southern defeated Western in the final regular season game of 2007 in a winner take all game to gain a spot in the MIAA Tournament. Western dominated the series from 1988-1999 when the Griffons won 16-of-21 games. The Lions, however, have won 19 of the last 30 games. The 88 games played against Western is the third-most the Lions have played against a single school, behind Pittsburg State (95) and Southwest Baptist (92).
Taevaunn Amongst The Nation's Best
Taevaunn Prince leads the country in defensive rebounds per game, while ranking fourth in free throws attempted, fifth in free throws made and total rebounds, and sixth in rebounds per game. He also ranks 25th in both total points and double-doubles, 27th in points per game and 54th in total field goals.
NCAA Individual Stat Leaders
Taevaunn Prince isn't the only Lion that is amongst the National Leaders. Austin Wrightranks 44th in three pointers attempted, 44th in minutes per game, 48th in three pointers per game and 30th in total three pointers.
NCAA Team Stat Leaders
The Lions rank 50th in free throws made and 13th in three point field goal percentage.
MIAA Individual Leaders:
Prince leads the MIAA in defensive rebounds per game, free throw attempts, free throws made, double-doubles, rebounds per game, total points and total rebounds, ranking second in total field goals made and third in both total minutes and points per game. Austin Wrightleads the MIAA in total minutes, while ranking second in three point field goals per game and minutes per game, third in three point field goal attempts and fifth in three point percentage. DJ Feitl ranks fourth in total steals and fifth in steals per game.
MIAA Team Stat Leaders
The Lions rank second in the MIAA in free throws made, three point defense, three point percentage, total three pointers made and total rebounds. The team ranks third in free throw attempts, fourth in defensive rebounds per game and fifth in both three pointers per game and three point field goal attempts.
Record Breakers
Senior shooting guard Austin Wright set two records for the Lions last year, including the single-season three point record (79) and the single game three-point record (9). He also owns the single-season three point percentage mark (.493) and is also the current career-leader in that category (.456).
Record Breakers II
Wright is climbing the charts in career three pointers made at MSSU. He moved into the top five last year and currently sits in third at 202 career treys, after passing Keith Allen. He needs 12 to pass Jason Adams for 2nd place and 23 to break Skyler Bowlin's record of 224.
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 92-straight games since Arkansas Tech in 2012-13.
Taevaunn's On Fire
Taevaunn Prince is averaging 24.3 and 11.2 rebounds this season. He has led the Lions in rebounding every game but one, and in points in seven of nine.
Mr. 200
Austin Wright had seven three pointers against Central Oklahoma to give him 199 in his career. He currently has 202 and is 23 away from breaking the all-time record at MSSU.
Blocks By The 100
Greg Renfroe picked up his 100th career block this past week against Northeastern State. Renfroe had 62 blocks as a junior, second all-time in single-season blocks at MSSU.
20-Point Man
Taevaunn Prince has scored 20 points or more in every game but one this season.
MIAA Player Of The Week
Taevaunn Prince was named the MIAA Men's Basketball Player of the Week this week. He averaged 27.5 points and 11.5 rebounds last week, helping the Lions to a 2-0 week. It is the second time this year he has won the MIAA weekly award.
Rebound This
Taevaunn Prince has set his career-high in rebounds in two separate games this year, tying the mark of 17 in two of the four games.
Season-Ending Injury
Southern swing man LJ Ross will sit out the 2015-16 season after pre-season knee surgery revealed more damage than thought.
Huge Fan Support
Missouri Southern ranks 11th nationally in average attendance with 1,661 fans per game coming to the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. The Lions rank 6th in total attendance.
Go Get Em' Charlie Brown
Sophomore Charlie Brown had a career-high 27 points in a win over St. Cloud State to start the season.
Lions In The D2 Basketball Writers Regional Poll
The Missouri Southern men's basketball program is ranked 8th in the US Basketball Writers Association week two Central Region Poll. Central Missouri is ranked second, while Fort Hays is fourth and Pittsburg State is seventh.
Up Next
Southern will come back home next week as the Lions play host to face off with Emporia State on December 16. Tip off from Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center is slated for 7:30 pm.
The Missouri Southern men's basketball program will head to St. Joseph on Saturday to take on the Missouri Western Griffons. Tip off is slated for 5 pm.
Game Information
Teams: Missouri Southern (5-4, 2-1 MIAA) vs. Missouri Western (3-6, 1-2 MIAA)
Date: Saturday, December 12, 2015
Tip-Off:5:00 pm
Location: St. Joseph, Mo.
Site: Missouri Western Fieldhouse (3,270)
Series Record: Southern leads 45-43
Coaches:Jeff Boschee (25-15 overall/at MSSU). Brett Weiberg (24-39 at MWSU/overall* - 4-year Record)
Media Coverage
MSSU Radio:FM 99.7 KBTN - Mike McClure - Play-by-play
Internet Audio:www.mssulions.com
Live Video:www.mssulions.com
Live Stats: www.mssulions.com
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/mososports
Lions on Twitter:@mososports; @mssumensbball
The Series
Southern leads the series with Western 45-43. The, Lions have won the last 13 out of 16 match-ups. Southern is 34-11 at home, but just 11-32 in St. Joseph. Southern defeated Western in the final regular season game of 2007 in a winner take all game to gain a spot in the MIAA Tournament. Western dominated the series from 1988-1999 when the Griffons won 16-of-21 games. The Lions, however, have won 19 of the last 30 games. The 88 games played against Western is the third-most the Lions have played against a single school, behind Pittsburg State (95) and Southwest Baptist (92).
Taevaunn Amongst The Nation's Best
Taevaunn Prince leads the country in defensive rebounds per game, while ranking fourth in free throws attempted, fifth in free throws made and total rebounds, and sixth in rebounds per game. He also ranks 25th in both total points and double-doubles, 27th in points per game and 54th in total field goals.
NCAA Individual Stat Leaders
Taevaunn Prince isn't the only Lion that is amongst the National Leaders. Austin Wrightranks 44th in three pointers attempted, 44th in minutes per game, 48th in three pointers per game and 30th in total three pointers.
NCAA Team Stat Leaders
The Lions rank 50th in free throws made and 13th in three point field goal percentage.
MIAA Individual Leaders:
Prince leads the MIAA in defensive rebounds per game, free throw attempts, free throws made, double-doubles, rebounds per game, total points and total rebounds, ranking second in total field goals made and third in both total minutes and points per game. Austin Wrightleads the MIAA in total minutes, while ranking second in three point field goals per game and minutes per game, third in three point field goal attempts and fifth in three point percentage. DJ Feitl ranks fourth in total steals and fifth in steals per game.
MIAA Team Stat Leaders
The Lions rank second in the MIAA in free throws made, three point defense, three point percentage, total three pointers made and total rebounds. The team ranks third in free throw attempts, fourth in defensive rebounds per game and fifth in both three pointers per game and three point field goal attempts.
Record Breakers
Senior shooting guard Austin Wright set two records for the Lions last year, including the single-season three point record (79) and the single game three-point record (9). He also owns the single-season three point percentage mark (.493) and is also the current career-leader in that category (.456).
Record Breakers II
Wright is climbing the charts in career three pointers made at MSSU. He moved into the top five last year and currently sits in third at 202 career treys, after passing Keith Allen. He needs 12 to pass Jason Adams for 2nd place and 23 to break Skyler Bowlin's record of 224.
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 92-straight games since Arkansas Tech in 2012-13.
Taevaunn's On Fire
Taevaunn Prince is averaging 24.3 and 11.2 rebounds this season. He has led the Lions in rebounding every game but one, and in points in seven of nine.
Mr. 200
Austin Wright had seven three pointers against Central Oklahoma to give him 199 in his career. He currently has 202 and is 23 away from breaking the all-time record at MSSU.
Blocks By The 100
Greg Renfroe picked up his 100th career block this past week against Northeastern State. Renfroe had 62 blocks as a junior, second all-time in single-season blocks at MSSU.
20-Point Man
Taevaunn Prince has scored 20 points or more in every game but one this season.
MIAA Player Of The Week
Taevaunn Prince was named the MIAA Men's Basketball Player of the Week this week. He averaged 27.5 points and 11.5 rebounds last week, helping the Lions to a 2-0 week. It is the second time this year he has won the MIAA weekly award.
Rebound This
Taevaunn Prince has set his career-high in rebounds in two separate games this year, tying the mark of 17 in two of the four games.
Season-Ending Injury
Southern swing man LJ Ross will sit out the 2015-16 season after pre-season knee surgery revealed more damage than thought.
Huge Fan Support
Missouri Southern ranks 11th nationally in average attendance with 1,661 fans per game coming to the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. The Lions rank 6th in total attendance.
Go Get Em' Charlie Brown
Sophomore Charlie Brown had a career-high 27 points in a win over St. Cloud State to start the season.
Lions In The D2 Basketball Writers Regional Poll
The Missouri Southern men's basketball program is ranked 8th in the US Basketball Writers Association week two Central Region Poll. Central Missouri is ranked second, while Fort Hays is fourth and Pittsburg State is seventh.
Up Next
Southern will come back home next week as the Lions play host to face off with Emporia State on December 16. Tip off from Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center is slated for 7:30 pm.
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Number four ranked team in nation to play in Neosho Holiday Tournament
(From Branco)
Every December since 1954, high school basketball squads have converged in Southwest Missouri to face off in the Neosho Holiday Classic. A staple of community activity between Christmas and New Year’s Day, the basketball tournament began with area schools coming together for friendly competition. Despite a long history of support by the community, participation began to waiver in the 1990s. Recognizing that successful high school basketball tournaments are driven by both business and community support, Branco Enterprises became the official tournament sponsor in 1998. Through the hard work of the Neosho High School, area businesses, and local volunteers, the tournament has grown to become one of the premier tournaments in the region.
This year’s tournament begins on Monday, December 28th.Though all games are well attended, capacity crowds are expected for the Wednesday evening Slam Dunk and 3 Point Shoot Out contests. The final day of games with be on December 31st, with championship games in the evening. In addition to local and regional teams, this year’s edition includes teams from four states including Arkansas, Missouri, Texas, and Tennessee. Highlighting our tournament this year is Atascocita High School, who is currently ranked #4 in the nation. They have Senior guard, Carsen Edwards, who has committed to Purdue.
While the community reaps significant benefits from the tournament’s success, the motivation behind Branco’s involvement is the players. “Branco’s desire is to provide local, regional, and national high school basketball teams a fun, exciting tournament,” says Brennan Robinson of Branco. “There are many great benefits for the players. Playing against nationally ranked teams gives local players a level of exposure that they normally would not receive.” Numerous college scouts and media outlets attend the tournament, which can open the door to opportunities for players at the next level.
At the same time, players are beneficiaries of unrivaled hospitality. Branco provides lodging and travel as necessary for the out of area teams. In addition, each player and coach receives a tournament t-shirt and lanyard Hospitality rooms are available at the tournament for coaches, players, officials, and administrators. “Hot meals and drinks are provided all day long, and the players and coaches are always amazed at the quality of the food and the service that comes with it,” says Robinson. Several area churches have become an integral part to the tournament in recent years by preparing and serving the evening meals. These churces include: Abundant Life, Calvary Baptist, First Baptist, Northside Baptist, Racine Christian, Ritchey Baptist, Rocketdyne Church of Christ.
As the underwriter for the event, Branco is committed to the long-term success of the tournament. However, Branco is not alone. The staff, coaches, and administrators from the Neosho School District put in long hours to ensure that the tournament runs smoothly. And, dozens of workers and volunteers are needed every year. In addition, many local businesses provide support in the form of event sponsorships. Many business leaders in the Neosho and surrounding communities participated in the tournament at one time and have fond memories. “While local citizens recognize the impact that the tournament has had on the community, the greatest satisfaction is seeing the players compete in the game they love and watching the fans as they take the opportunity to break away from the stresses of life and enjoy competitive high school basketball.”
Every December since 1954, high school basketball squads have converged in Southwest Missouri to face off in the Neosho Holiday Classic. A staple of community activity between Christmas and New Year’s Day, the basketball tournament began with area schools coming together for friendly competition. Despite a long history of support by the community, participation began to waiver in the 1990s. Recognizing that successful high school basketball tournaments are driven by both business and community support, Branco Enterprises became the official tournament sponsor in 1998. Through the hard work of the Neosho High School, area businesses, and local volunteers, the tournament has grown to become one of the premier tournaments in the region.
This year’s tournament begins on Monday, December 28th.Though all games are well attended, capacity crowds are expected for the Wednesday evening Slam Dunk and 3 Point Shoot Out contests. The final day of games with be on December 31st, with championship games in the evening. In addition to local and regional teams, this year’s edition includes teams from four states including Arkansas, Missouri, Texas, and Tennessee. Highlighting our tournament this year is Atascocita High School, who is currently ranked #4 in the nation. They have Senior guard, Carsen Edwards, who has committed to Purdue.
While the community reaps significant benefits from the tournament’s success, the motivation behind Branco’s involvement is the players. “Branco’s desire is to provide local, regional, and national high school basketball teams a fun, exciting tournament,” says Brennan Robinson of Branco. “There are many great benefits for the players. Playing against nationally ranked teams gives local players a level of exposure that they normally would not receive.” Numerous college scouts and media outlets attend the tournament, which can open the door to opportunities for players at the next level.
At the same time, players are beneficiaries of unrivaled hospitality. Branco provides lodging and travel as necessary for the out of area teams. In addition, each player and coach receives a tournament t-shirt and lanyard Hospitality rooms are available at the tournament for coaches, players, officials, and administrators. “Hot meals and drinks are provided all day long, and the players and coaches are always amazed at the quality of the food and the service that comes with it,” says Robinson. Several area churches have become an integral part to the tournament in recent years by preparing and serving the evening meals. These churces include: Abundant Life, Calvary Baptist, First Baptist, Northside Baptist, Racine Christian, Ritchey Baptist, Rocketdyne Church of Christ.
As the underwriter for the event, Branco is committed to the long-term success of the tournament. However, Branco is not alone. The staff, coaches, and administrators from the Neosho School District put in long hours to ensure that the tournament runs smoothly. And, dozens of workers and volunteers are needed every year. In addition, many local businesses provide support in the form of event sponsorships. Many business leaders in the Neosho and surrounding communities participated in the tournament at one time and have fond memories. “While local citizens recognize the impact that the tournament has had on the community, the greatest satisfaction is seeing the players compete in the game they love and watching the fans as they take the opportunity to break away from the stresses of life and enjoy competitive high school basketball.”
MSSU men fall to Northwest Missouri 89-77
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
The Missouri Southern basketball team ran into a hot Northwest Missouri squad as the Lions fell to the Bearcats 89-77 tonight on Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Southern (5-4, 2-1 MIAA) was led by Taevaunn Prince as the senior had 23 points and nine rebounds, going 7-114 from the field and 8-9 from the free-throw line. Charlie Brown scored 15, while Greg Renfroe had nine points and three blocks.Austin Wright and Taylor Luster had eight points each.
Northwest (5-2, 3-0 MIAA) was led by Anthony Woods with 25 points, while Justin Pitts added 19 and Conner Crooker had 18.
A three pointer from Brown started things off for the Lions on their first trip down the floor. The Bearcats, however, opened up an 11-7 lead with 15:37 left in the half after a jumper from Pitts.
The Bearcats lead was seven (23-16) after another jumper from Pitts, and a three from Crooker gave Northwest a 32-24 lead with 4:11 left. A three from Prince as time expired made the halftime score 38-31, Northwest.
Brown led the Lions in scoring in the first half with ten points on 4-7 shooting.
A pair of free throws from Prince cut the lead for Northwest to just three (47-44) with 15:18 left in the second half, but the Bearcats opened up a 10-point lead (57-47) after a pair of free throws from Woods with 11:45 to go.
The Northwest lead reached 13 (75-62) after another bucket from Woods and the Lions got as close as seven (84-77) after a pair of free throws from Prince with just over a minute to go.
Southern shot 47 percent from the field and 33 percent from long range. The Lions made 73 percent of their free throws, as well. Northwest shot 56 percent from the field and out rebounded the Lions 37-26, holding a 50-34 advantage in the paint.
Southern will be back in action this Saturday when the Lions head to St. Joseph to take on Missouri Western. Tip off is slated for 5 pm.
The Missouri Southern basketball team ran into a hot Northwest Missouri squad as the Lions fell to the Bearcats 89-77 tonight on Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Southern (5-4, 2-1 MIAA) was led by Taevaunn Prince as the senior had 23 points and nine rebounds, going 7-114 from the field and 8-9 from the free-throw line. Charlie Brown scored 15, while Greg Renfroe had nine points and three blocks.Austin Wright and Taylor Luster had eight points each.
Northwest (5-2, 3-0 MIAA) was led by Anthony Woods with 25 points, while Justin Pitts added 19 and Conner Crooker had 18.
A three pointer from Brown started things off for the Lions on their first trip down the floor. The Bearcats, however, opened up an 11-7 lead with 15:37 left in the half after a jumper from Pitts.
The Bearcats lead was seven (23-16) after another jumper from Pitts, and a three from Crooker gave Northwest a 32-24 lead with 4:11 left. A three from Prince as time expired made the halftime score 38-31, Northwest.
Brown led the Lions in scoring in the first half with ten points on 4-7 shooting.
A pair of free throws from Prince cut the lead for Northwest to just three (47-44) with 15:18 left in the second half, but the Bearcats opened up a 10-point lead (57-47) after a pair of free throws from Woods with 11:45 to go.
The Northwest lead reached 13 (75-62) after another bucket from Woods and the Lions got as close as seven (84-77) after a pair of free throws from Prince with just over a minute to go.
Southern shot 47 percent from the field and 33 percent from long range. The Lions made 73 percent of their free throws, as well. Northwest shot 56 percent from the field and out rebounded the Lions 37-26, holding a 50-34 advantage in the paint.
Southern will be back in action this Saturday when the Lions head to St. Joseph to take on Missouri Western. Tip off is slated for 5 pm.
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
MSSU women hold on for 48-43 win
Sharese Jones scored 12 points and Bri Shaversadded 10 as the Missouri Southern women's basketball team won 48-43 over visiting Northwest Missouri tonight on Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.
Southern (8-1, 2-1 MIAA) was led by Jones 12 points as the senior was 4-8 from the field and 3-4 from the free throw line. She added six rebounds. Shavers had a career-high with ten points on 5-8 shooting, while Kenya Wilson-Brown had nine points and a career-high eight rebounds to go along with five assists and four steals.
Northwest (2-7, 0-3 MIAA) was led in scoring by Jasmin Howe with 16 points on 7-11 from the field.
The Lions took a 6-5 lead after a layup from Wilson-Brown with 7:53 left in the first quarter. They led 12-5 after another layup from Wilson-Brown, this time with 6:56 left to cap a 12-2 run.
The lead reached eight (17-9) after a jumper from Jones and Southern led 17-12 after one.
A pair of free throws for Northwest to start the second quarter cut the Lions' lead to just three (17-14), but a 8-2 run for Southern pushed the Lions' lead back up to nine (25-16) after back-to-back buckets from Kayla Kivinski. A pair of free throws from Desirea Buerge with 1:17 left in the half gave the Lions a 27-18 lead going into the locker room.
Wilson-Brown led the Lions in scoring, rebounds and assists with 7 points, five rebounds and four assists at the break.
The Bearcats cut the Lions' lead to just three (36-33) at the end of the third quarter, but Southern opened up the fourth on a 6-0 run to lead 42-33 with 8:29 left after a pair of Buerge free throws.
Southern led 46-43 with 30 seconds left in the game, but the Bearcats had the ball, however the Lions forced a turnover and Wilson-Brown made a pair of free throws to seal the win.
The Lions shot 31 percent from the field and 78 percent from the free throw line and forced 23 Northwest Missouri turnovers, scoring 19 points on the miscues. Southern had a 35-23 advantage on the boards, including a 14-2 advantage on the offensive boards, leading to a 17-0 lead in second-chance points.
Southern will be back in action this Saturday when the Lions head to St. Joseph to take on Missouri Western. Tip off is slated for 3 pm.
Robert Corn to be inducted into Missouri Sports Hall of Fame
Former Missouri Southern men's basketball coach and current Director of Development for Athletics Robert Corn will be one of 15 individuals, a sports program and a team that will be inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame on January 31, 2016.
The Enshrinement is 5 p.m. Sunday, January 31 at the University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center in Springfield. An 11 a.m. reception presented by Meeks The Builder's Choice is scheduled at the Hall of Fame, 3861 E. Stan Musial Drive. Afternoon activities begin at 4 p.m. with a reception at University Plaza, and the program will follow immediately afterward. Individual tickets are $150, and a table of 10 is $1,500. For tickets, call the Hall of Fame at 417-889-3100.
Corn coached the Missouri Southern men's basketball program for 25 seasons, compiling a 413-305 record before retiring in March 2014. His 413 wins are the most in school history. He also has the third-most wins among coaches in the history of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association. He has led the Lions to 16 consecutive trips to the MIAA Tournament, 21 overall, and in 2014 earned his fourth MIAA Coach of the Year award. That award followed his ninth 20-win season.
Overall, Corn has guided five teams to the NCAA Division II Tournament. One of his best seasons was 1999-2000, when the Lions reached the national semifinals and finished 30-3. That team cut down the nets three times inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center - after the MIAA regular-season championship, the MIAA Tournament championship and the NCAA Division II South Central Regional Tournament title.
Since his retirement, Corn has worked in both the Alumni and Development offices at Missouri Southern, his current roll being the major fundraiser for the Missouri Southern Athletics Department.
Corn joins Pat Lipira, Rod Smith and Tom Rutledge as former Missouri Southern athletes or coaches in the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the Missouri Southern Hall of Fame in 2000.
A native of Benton, Ill., where he was twice a special mention prep All-State performer, Corn played basketball for two seasons at Memphis State University (now the University of Memphis), including one year under Bartow, before transferring to Missouri Southern. As a senior, he was co-captain of the 1977-78 squad that went 27-9 to capture both Central States Intercollegiate Conference and NAIA District 16 crowns and advance to the quarterfinals of the NAIA Tournament.Corn was honored for his athletic and academic efforts that year as he was named honorable mention All-CSIC and All-District, as well as Missouri Southern's outstanding physical education major. He received his bachelor's degree in 1978.
Corn returned to his alma mater following ten years as an assistant under one of the game's most respected coaches, Gene Bartow, at the University of Alabama-Birmingham.Corn went to UAB as a graduate assistant in 1979, just one year after Bartow had been hired to start the Blazers' basketball program, and was later promoted to full-time assistant in 1981.
He is married to the former Cindy Little of Muscle Shoals, Ala. They have two sons, Rob and Scott Michael.
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
MSSU men look for third straight MIAA win against Northwest Missouri
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
The Missouri Southern men's basketball team will look to go to 3-0 in MIAA play with a huge early season matchup with visiting Northwest Missouri this Wednesday night. Tip off from Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center is slated for 7:30 pm.
Game Information
Teams: Missouri Southern (5-3, 2-0 MIAA) vs. Northwest Missouri (4-2, 2-0 MIAA)
Date: Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Tip-Off: 7:30 pm
Location: Joplin, Mo.
Site: Corn Court/Leggett & Platt Athletic Center (3,240)
Series Record: Northwest leads 28-21
Coaches: Jeff Boschee (24-14 overall/at MSSU). Ben McCollum (118-66 at NWMO/overall)
Media Coverage
MSSU Radio: FM 99.7 KBTN - Mike McClure - Play-by-play
Internet Audio: www.mssulions.com
Live Video: www.mssulions.com
Live Stats: www.mssulions.com
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/mososports
Lions on Twitter: @mososports; @mssumensbball
The Series
Northwest leads the overall series 28-21, but Southern has won nine of the last 13 games. Missouri Southern is 15-8 at home against Northwest Missouri, while the Lions are 5-16 in Maryville. Northwest has won all but one of the neutral site games. While many of the games have been close, Northwest's biggest victory margin was 27 points, in the 2006 MIAA Tournament. Southern's most-lopsided win was a 93-67 decision on January 29, 2000. Four out of the last seven games have been decided by a basket or less.
Taevaunn Amongst The Nation's Best
Taevaunn Prince leads the country in defensive rebounds per game, while ranking fourth in free throws attempted, fifth in free throws made and total rebounds, and sixth in rebounds per game. He also ranks 25th in both total points and double-doubles, 27th in points per game and 54th in total field goals.
NCAA Individual Stat Leaders
Taevaunn Prince isn't the only Lion that is amongst the National Leaders. Austin Wright ranks 44th in three pointers attempted, 44th in minutes per game, 48th in three pointers per game and 30th in total three pointers.
NCAA Team Stat Leaders
The Lions rank 50th in free throws made and 13th in three point field goal percentage.
MIAA Individual Leaders:
Prince leads the MIAA in defensive rebounds per game, free throw attempts, free throws made, double-doubles, rebounds per game, total points and total rebounds, ranking second in total field goals made and third in both total minutes and points per game. Austin Wright leads the MIAA in total minutes, while ranking second in three point field goals per game and minutes per game, third in three point field goal attempts and fifth in three point percentage.DJ Feitl ranks fourth in total steals and fifth in steals per game.
MIAA Team Stat Leaders
The Lions rank second in the MIAA in free throws made, three point defense, three point percentage, total three pointers made and total rebounds. The team ranks third in free throw attempts, fourth in defensive rebounds per game and fifth in both three pointers per game and three point field goal attempts.
Record Breakers
Senior shooting guard Austin Wright set two records for the Lions last year, including the single-season three point record (79) and the single game three-point record (9). He also owns the single-season three point percentage mark (.493) and is also the current career-leader in that category (.458).
Record Breakers II
Wright is climbing the charts in career three pointers made at MSSU. He moved into the top five last year and currently sits in third at 201 career treys, after passing Keith Allen. He needs 13 to pass Jason Adams for 2nd place and 24 to break Skyler Bowlin's record of 224.
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 91-straight games since Arkansas Tech in 2012-13.
Taevaunn's On Fire
Taevaunn Prince is averaging 24.5 and 11.5 rebounds this season. He has led the Lions in rebounding every game but one, and in points in six of eight.
Mr. 200
Austin Wright had seven three pointers against Central Oklahoma to give him 199 in his career. He is just one from 200 and 26 from breaking the all-time record at MSSU.
Blocks By The 100
Greg Renfroe picked up his 100th career block this past week against Northeastern State. Renfroe had 62 blocks as a junior, second all-time in single-season blocks at MSSU.
20-Point Man
Taevaunn Prince has scored 20 points or more in every game but one this season.
MIAA Player Of The Week
Taevaunn Prince was named the MIAA Men's Basketball Player of the Week this week. He averaged 27.5 points and 11.5 rebounds last week, helping the Lions to a 2-0 week. It is the second time this year he has won the MIAA weekly award.
Rebound This
Taevaunn Prince has set his career-high in rebounds in two separate games this year, tying the mark of 17 in two of the four games.
Season-Ending Injury
Southern swing man LJ Ross will sit out the 2015-16 season after pre-season knee surgery revealed more damage than thought.
Huge Fan Support
Missouri Southern ranks 11th nationally in average attendance with 1,661 fans per game coming to the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. The Lions rank 6th in total attendance.
Go Get Em' Charlie Brown
Sophomore Charlie Brown had a career-high 27 points in a win over St. Cloud State to start the season.
Lions In The D2 Basketball Writers Regional Poll
The Missouri Southern men's basketball program is ranked 8th in the US Basketball Writers Association week two Central Region Poll. Central Missouri is ranked second, while Fort Hays is fourth and Pittsburg State is seventh.
Up Next
Southern will head on the road this Saturday for a matchup at Missouri Western. Tip off from St. Joseph is slated for 5 pm.
The Missouri Southern men's basketball team will look to go to 3-0 in MIAA play with a huge early season matchup with visiting Northwest Missouri this Wednesday night. Tip off from Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center is slated for 7:30 pm.
Game Information
Teams: Missouri Southern (5-3, 2-0 MIAA) vs. Northwest Missouri (4-2, 2-0 MIAA)
Date: Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Tip-Off: 7:30 pm
Location: Joplin, Mo.
Site: Corn Court/Leggett & Platt Athletic Center (3,240)
Series Record: Northwest leads 28-21
Coaches: Jeff Boschee (24-14 overall/at MSSU). Ben McCollum (118-66 at NWMO/overall)
Media Coverage
MSSU Radio: FM 99.7 KBTN - Mike McClure - Play-by-play
Internet Audio: www.mssulions.com
Live Video: www.mssulions.com
Live Stats: www.mssulions.com
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/mososports
Lions on Twitter: @mososports; @mssumensbball
The Series
Northwest leads the overall series 28-21, but Southern has won nine of the last 13 games. Missouri Southern is 15-8 at home against Northwest Missouri, while the Lions are 5-16 in Maryville. Northwest has won all but one of the neutral site games. While many of the games have been close, Northwest's biggest victory margin was 27 points, in the 2006 MIAA Tournament. Southern's most-lopsided win was a 93-67 decision on January 29, 2000. Four out of the last seven games have been decided by a basket or less.
Taevaunn Amongst The Nation's Best
Taevaunn Prince leads the country in defensive rebounds per game, while ranking fourth in free throws attempted, fifth in free throws made and total rebounds, and sixth in rebounds per game. He also ranks 25th in both total points and double-doubles, 27th in points per game and 54th in total field goals.
NCAA Individual Stat Leaders
Taevaunn Prince isn't the only Lion that is amongst the National Leaders. Austin Wright ranks 44th in three pointers attempted, 44th in minutes per game, 48th in three pointers per game and 30th in total three pointers.
NCAA Team Stat Leaders
The Lions rank 50th in free throws made and 13th in three point field goal percentage.
MIAA Individual Leaders:
Prince leads the MIAA in defensive rebounds per game, free throw attempts, free throws made, double-doubles, rebounds per game, total points and total rebounds, ranking second in total field goals made and third in both total minutes and points per game. Austin Wright leads the MIAA in total minutes, while ranking second in three point field goals per game and minutes per game, third in three point field goal attempts and fifth in three point percentage.DJ Feitl ranks fourth in total steals and fifth in steals per game.
MIAA Team Stat Leaders
The Lions rank second in the MIAA in free throws made, three point defense, three point percentage, total three pointers made and total rebounds. The team ranks third in free throw attempts, fourth in defensive rebounds per game and fifth in both three pointers per game and three point field goal attempts.
Record Breakers
Senior shooting guard Austin Wright set two records for the Lions last year, including the single-season three point record (79) and the single game three-point record (9). He also owns the single-season three point percentage mark (.493) and is also the current career-leader in that category (.458).
Record Breakers II
Wright is climbing the charts in career three pointers made at MSSU. He moved into the top five last year and currently sits in third at 201 career treys, after passing Keith Allen. He needs 13 to pass Jason Adams for 2nd place and 24 to break Skyler Bowlin's record of 224.
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 91-straight games since Arkansas Tech in 2012-13.
Taevaunn's On Fire
Taevaunn Prince is averaging 24.5 and 11.5 rebounds this season. He has led the Lions in rebounding every game but one, and in points in six of eight.
Mr. 200
Austin Wright had seven three pointers against Central Oklahoma to give him 199 in his career. He is just one from 200 and 26 from breaking the all-time record at MSSU.
Blocks By The 100
Greg Renfroe picked up his 100th career block this past week against Northeastern State. Renfroe had 62 blocks as a junior, second all-time in single-season blocks at MSSU.
20-Point Man
Taevaunn Prince has scored 20 points or more in every game but one this season.
MIAA Player Of The Week
Taevaunn Prince was named the MIAA Men's Basketball Player of the Week this week. He averaged 27.5 points and 11.5 rebounds last week, helping the Lions to a 2-0 week. It is the second time this year he has won the MIAA weekly award.
Rebound This
Taevaunn Prince has set his career-high in rebounds in two separate games this year, tying the mark of 17 in two of the four games.
Season-Ending Injury
Southern swing man LJ Ross will sit out the 2015-16 season after pre-season knee surgery revealed more damage than thought.
Huge Fan Support
Missouri Southern ranks 11th nationally in average attendance with 1,661 fans per game coming to the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. The Lions rank 6th in total attendance.
Go Get Em' Charlie Brown
Sophomore Charlie Brown had a career-high 27 points in a win over St. Cloud State to start the season.
Lions In The D2 Basketball Writers Regional Poll
The Missouri Southern men's basketball program is ranked 8th in the US Basketball Writers Association week two Central Region Poll. Central Missouri is ranked second, while Fort Hays is fourth and Pittsburg State is seventh.
Up Next
Southern will head on the road this Saturday for a matchup at Missouri Western. Tip off from St. Joseph is slated for 5 pm.
Cardinals trade Jon Jay, land San Diego infielder
(From the St. Louis Cardinals)
The St. Louis Cardinals announced this morning that they have acquired infielder Jedd Gyorko from the San Diego Padres in exchange for outfielder Jon Jay.
Gyorko, 27, who is under contract thru 2019, was a National League Rookie of the Year finalist in 2013 and has batted .236 with 49 home runs and 171 RBI in 364 career games with the Friars. He is ranked 4th among active Major League second basemen in HR's since debuting in 2013.
The right-handed hitting Gyorko hit a career-high 23 home runs during his 2013 rookie campaign, setting the Padres single-season record for home runs by a second baseman while batting .249 with 63 RBI. In 128 games this past season, the Morgantown, WV native hit .247 with 16 round-trippers and 57 RBI, appearing at second base, shortstop and first base. Over his three seasons with the Padres, Gyorko has played 319 games at second base, 29 at shortstop and 13 at third base. He ranked 2nd among N.L. second basemen in fielding pct. (.992) in 2014.
The St. Louis Cardinals announced this morning that they have acquired infielder Jedd Gyorko from the San Diego Padres in exchange for outfielder Jon Jay.
Gyorko, 27, who is under contract thru 2019, was a National League Rookie of the Year finalist in 2013 and has batted .236 with 49 home runs and 171 RBI in 364 career games with the Friars. He is ranked 4th among active Major League second basemen in HR's since debuting in 2013.
The right-handed hitting Gyorko hit a career-high 23 home runs during his 2013 rookie campaign, setting the Padres single-season record for home runs by a second baseman while batting .249 with 63 RBI. In 128 games this past season, the Morgantown, WV native hit .247 with 16 round-trippers and 57 RBI, appearing at second base, shortstop and first base. Over his three seasons with the Padres, Gyorko has played 319 games at second base, 29 at shortstop and 13 at third base. He ranked 2nd among N.L. second basemen in fielding pct. (.992) in 2014.
Monday, December 7, 2015
Prince named MIAA Player of the Week
Missouri Southern senior guard Taevaunn Prince has been named the MIAA Men's Basketball Player of the Week as announced by the league office today.
Prince, a native of Toronto, Canada, helped the Lions to a 2-0 start this past week to open up MIAA play. In his first game against Central Oklahoma, Prince scored 17 points and added nine rebounds in helping to lift the Lions over the Bronchos . In that game, UCO had got to within six points, but baskets from Prince with 3:12 and 1:22 to go in the game helped push the Southern lead back to double-digits.
Against Northeastern State, Prince scored 37 points and added ten rebounds in keying the Lions eight point win. He went 11-14 from the field in the game, as well as 14-15 from the free throw line. For the week, Prince averaged 27.0 points, 9.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 2.5 steals and 34 minutes per game, while shooting 64 percent from the field and 91 percent from the free-throw line.
The Lions play host to Northwest Missouri this Wednesday night. Tip off from Robert Corn Court inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center is slated for 7:30 pm.
MSSU women's track opens indoor season
The Missouri Southern women's track and field team picked up four provisional performances and an event win Saturday as the Lions opened up the 2015-16 indoor season at the Crimson and Gold Classic hosted by Pittsburg State inside the Plaster Center.
Kaylee Morgan won the long jump and picked up a provisional distance in the process as she leaped to a distance of 18-03.25. Brittani Reagan was third in the event with a distance of 18-01.75, while Allie Heckemeyer placed 11th and Sierra Barrett was 15th.
Reagan earned a provisional mark in the triple jump, placing third in a distance of 38-08.75. Heckemeyer placed seventh in the event.
Victoria Foley was second in the weight throw with a provisional distance of 54-06.75, while Katie Skelton was fourth in the shot put in a distance of 37-06.75.
Melanie Bower placed fifth in the pole vault with a provisional height of 11-11.75, while Kylee Hulsey was sixth in the high jump with a height of 4-11.00.
Morgan was fifth in the 60m hurdles with a time of 9.06, whileRachel Ray was ninth. Soley Webb was seventh in the 400m dash, while Ray was eighth. Emily Harris placed second in the 3k with a time of 10:10.65, while Christian Provence was ninth.
The Lions will be off for the Christmas Break and will be back in action on January 22-23 when Southern plays host to the MSSU Invitational.
MSSU's Jayce Thomas qualifies for nationals, sets school record
(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)
Missouri Southern senior Jayce Thomasqualified for the 2016 NCAA Division II Indoor National Championships and broke a school record in the process as the Lions competed at Pittsburg State today, opening the Indoor season.
Thomas scored 5,454 points to win the heptathlon today. He won four of the seven events, including winning two of the three events today, placing second in the final race of the heptathlon. He broke the previous MSSU record by 264 points which was held by Phillip Horn, set at the 2009 Indoor National Championships. In all, Thomas won the long jump, the high jump, the 60m hurdles and the pole vault to take the title by more than 600 points in front of his nearest competitor.
In other action, Southern had four provisional marks in addition to Thomas' auto mark. Morgan Hold had a provisional in the pole vault, placing third with a height of 16-03.25. Desmond Williams had a provisional with a third place mark in the long jump, leaping to a distance of 23-02.75.Jourden Riley was fifth in the event, while Kennan Harrisonwas 15th.
Harrison was fourth in the triple jump with a provisional mark of 47-03.50. Eric Schott was second in the 3k with a provisional time of 8:24.09.
Tyler Hovey was fifth in the weight throw with a mark of 48-07.50, while Tanner Erhart placed seventh. Hovey and Erhart placed fourth and eighth in the shot put, while Cody Vogt was third in the high jump with a height of 6-06.00.
Sean Manhertz and Jesse Martini placed sixth and ninth in the 60m hurdles, while Williams was 11th in the 60m dash.Warren Leak was fourth in the 300m dash in a time of 36.20, while Thomas Hawkins was fourth in the 400m, turning in a time of 49.21.
Jacob Sholl was sixth in the 600 yard dash, while Sam Kohrsand Ben Grant placed fourth and ninth in the 800m. The 4x400m relay team of Williams, Hawkins, Kohrs and Sholl placed ninth.
The Lions will be off for the Christmas Break and will be back in action on January 22-23 when Southern plays host to the MSSU Invitational.
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