The Salukis (11-10, 6-4) are all alone in 3rd place in the MVC, only one game behind Illinois State for 2nd, but in order to move up they'll have to win road games down the stretch. Standing in the way of the Salukis are the UNI Panthers (13-8, 5-5) who sport the MVC's top scoring defense, only allowing 57.9 ppg and holding opponents to just 37% shooting.
For the Salukis to win on the road they will need more scoring punch than they displayed in their 48-44 home victory over Creighton. Enter Joshua Bone. Bone hasn't been hitting from long range lately but he's still the best 3 point option for the Salukis. Bone's ability to stretch the defense with the 3-ball could be the difference between a win and a loss on Saturday (7pm on Fox Sports Midwest).
In the interview below, Joshua talks about his confidence shooting, playing alongside Bryan Mullins, and what it will take to win a close game on the road.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Salukis win, hold Aces to just 39 points
The Saluki 'D' was in full effect against Evansville on Tuesday night and SIU was able to wear down Evansville and cruise to a 59-39 victory.
SIU coach Chris Lowery played a 9 man rotation that kept his starters fresh and the Salukis responded by stretching a 9 point halftime lead into a 20 point advantage in the first 13 minutes of the second half.
The Salukis had already seen the Aces zone defense once this season and they seemed to figure it out in the second half. Matt Shaw and Randal Falker were able to get established and combined for 31 points in the win.
Shaw was a bright spot for the Salukis for more reasons than just his 15 point, 16 rebound performance. After a dismal 0 for 3 shooting performance in the first half, Shaw came alive in the second half hitting 4 of 7 shots for 13 of his 15 points.
Early in his career a bad start would have discouraged Shaw but things have changed for the senior forward. When asked about his performance, Shaw said, "When I'm not hitting shots I just stay positive and know that the next one is going down."
Shaw's performance against Evansville provided leadership by example for a Saluki team that has bounced back from a brutal start to win 4 of their last 5 games.
The Salukis are currently in 3rd place in the MVC and things could be trending upward for the Dawgs. "Now is the time for us to make a move," said Lowery. "We're not the hunted anymore. We're the ones hunting, so it's good for us mentally right now"
SIU coach Chris Lowery played a 9 man rotation that kept his starters fresh and the Salukis responded by stretching a 9 point halftime lead into a 20 point advantage in the first 13 minutes of the second half.
The Salukis had already seen the Aces zone defense once this season and they seemed to figure it out in the second half. Matt Shaw and Randal Falker were able to get established and combined for 31 points in the win.
Shaw was a bright spot for the Salukis for more reasons than just his 15 point, 16 rebound performance. After a dismal 0 for 3 shooting performance in the first half, Shaw came alive in the second half hitting 4 of 7 shots for 13 of his 15 points.
Early in his career a bad start would have discouraged Shaw but things have changed for the senior forward. When asked about his performance, Shaw said, "When I'm not hitting shots I just stay positive and know that the next one is going down."
Shaw's performance against Evansville provided leadership by example for a Saluki team that has bounced back from a brutal start to win 4 of their last 5 games.
The Salukis are currently in 3rd place in the MVC and things could be trending upward for the Dawgs. "Now is the time for us to make a move," said Lowery. "We're not the hunted anymore. We're the ones hunting, so it's good for us mentally right now"
Sunday, January 27, 2008
SALUKIS STALL CREIGHTON
The SIU Salukis rallied late to derail Creighton 48-44 at Carbondale Saturday night. It was a statement win for the Dawgs, who had been on the short end of several close decisions this season.
Despite the pressure cooker atmosphere of a packed SIU Arena, coach Dana Altman's battle-tough Blue Jays forged a 25-22 halftime lead. Creighton covered SIU's Randal Falker effectively in the low post. The Jays stayed hunkered down in zone, daring the Salukis to shoot over or drive through.
Neither approach was clicking for Southern. The Dawgs seemed frustrated in the opening 20 minutes, spending a good deal of time sniffing around the perimeter. Drives were seldom attempted. A last second three-quarter court heave by the Salukis clanged iron. Creighton seemed in control and on the way to a 15th win as they jogged off in search of ice water.
As much for the opening portion of the second half. Just under 13 minutes separated the Dawgs from their 11th loss and their fans from a gloomy trudge to the parking lot. Coach Altman's teams virtually never lose when holding opponents to under 50 points and the Jays were up 37-27.
Suddenly the Salukis roared to life. Matt Shaw nailed clutch threes. Bryan Mullins was everywhere at once. People were standing and shrieking. Falker dove headlong for the ball. Mullins lunged into the crowd to make a save. Falker rose over all and tipped a rebound to Wes Clemmons. For the first time all night, the Blue Jays seemed rattled.
Southern's defensive intensity doubled and limited Creighton to just 7 points the rest of the game. In the closing minutes the Dawgs got into the bonus and hit enough from the line to seal the win.
Shaw led Southern with 16 and Mullins hit 14. Booker Woodfox nailed up 11 for the Jays, while senior standout Dane Watts was limited to just six.
The unflappable Tony Boyle was productive for Southern. He had four points and four boards in seven minutes.
Saluki coach Chris Lowery commented that this was the team play he'd been waiting to see all season long. Even though SIU's seventh consecutive NCAA appearance probably hinges on winning the MVC tournament, Saturday's effort proved the Salukis should never be counted out.
SIU (10-10) will be at home Tuesday to face Evansville.
Despite the pressure cooker atmosphere of a packed SIU Arena, coach Dana Altman's battle-tough Blue Jays forged a 25-22 halftime lead. Creighton covered SIU's Randal Falker effectively in the low post. The Jays stayed hunkered down in zone, daring the Salukis to shoot over or drive through.
Neither approach was clicking for Southern. The Dawgs seemed frustrated in the opening 20 minutes, spending a good deal of time sniffing around the perimeter. Drives were seldom attempted. A last second three-quarter court heave by the Salukis clanged iron. Creighton seemed in control and on the way to a 15th win as they jogged off in search of ice water.
As much for the opening portion of the second half. Just under 13 minutes separated the Dawgs from their 11th loss and their fans from a gloomy trudge to the parking lot. Coach Altman's teams virtually never lose when holding opponents to under 50 points and the Jays were up 37-27.
Suddenly the Salukis roared to life. Matt Shaw nailed clutch threes. Bryan Mullins was everywhere at once. People were standing and shrieking. Falker dove headlong for the ball. Mullins lunged into the crowd to make a save. Falker rose over all and tipped a rebound to Wes Clemmons. For the first time all night, the Blue Jays seemed rattled.
Southern's defensive intensity doubled and limited Creighton to just 7 points the rest of the game. In the closing minutes the Dawgs got into the bonus and hit enough from the line to seal the win.
Shaw led Southern with 16 and Mullins hit 14. Booker Woodfox nailed up 11 for the Jays, while senior standout Dane Watts was limited to just six.
The unflappable Tony Boyle was productive for Southern. He had four points and four boards in seven minutes.
Saluki coach Chris Lowery commented that this was the team play he'd been waiting to see all season long. Even though SIU's seventh consecutive NCAA appearance probably hinges on winning the MVC tournament, Saturday's effort proved the Salukis should never be counted out.
SIU (10-10) will be at home Tuesday to face Evansville.
Friday, January 25, 2008
SPOTLIGHT ON CARBONDALE
The college hoops spotlight will be on Carbondale this Saturday, as the SIU Salukis (9-10) and Creighton Jays (14-4) collide at the Arena.
ESPN is coptering in their top guys in slick suits to present Game Day to the hoops-mad nation. Tip off for the Dawgs and Jays is 8 p.m. The game has been sold out for months.
Viewers will get an update on the Valley race, which has so far been a stunner. Drake is snorting the clear air and leading the field as they approach the half pole. Illinois State is two lengths back, with Creighton and Indiana State matching strides at three.
SIU is four back after being boxed on the rail by Missouri State and Northern Iowa is pushing on the outside. Bradley's boosters are already tearing their tickets in two and Wichita State is visible only with binoculars. Evansville is rumored to be lingering in the paddock.
Creighton will find the "sunny southland" a literal as well as figurative myth. Egypt currently shivers under a sullen January chill and the Dawgs are in no hospitable mood either.
Dana Altman's Blue Jays are no fluke, however. Fresh off an overtime loss to Drake, they are still in line for a possible conference title and will be a tough draw in St. Louis come March.
CREIGHTON AT-A-GLANCE: Lead MVC in Scoring (74.3 ppg.) and FG% (45.9). Four players avg. over 80% from the line and a 10-12 man rotation keeps the needle on full. Star Quality: Dane Watts - 6'8" senior, 12.7 ppg and 6.9 boards. Secret Weapons: Booker Woodfox - 26 of 58 from deep (44.8 %); P'Allen Stinnett - 43 inch vertical and the team's second leading scorer (10.9 ppg). Wild card: Handling the intensity of a raucous SIU Arena.
SOUTHERN AT-A-GLANCE: Currently snakebit in close games, but formidable against the MVC at home. Captain of the Ship: Bryan Mullins (10.8 ppg. / 5.3 apg) - clutch and savvy... the hand on the tiller for this squad. Seniors: Randal Falker (12.2 ppg) and Matt Shaw (12.0 ppg) - if they both show up on the same day the Dawgs roll. Dirty Work: Tyrone Green - explosive in the paint; Tony Boyle - rugged on the glass. Wild card: Last 5 minutes... can this team close out games as well as they close out on defense?
Check out ESPN2 for Saturday's action.
ESPN is coptering in their top guys in slick suits to present Game Day to the hoops-mad nation. Tip off for the Dawgs and Jays is 8 p.m. The game has been sold out for months.
Viewers will get an update on the Valley race, which has so far been a stunner. Drake is snorting the clear air and leading the field as they approach the half pole. Illinois State is two lengths back, with Creighton and Indiana State matching strides at three.
SIU is four back after being boxed on the rail by Missouri State and Northern Iowa is pushing on the outside. Bradley's boosters are already tearing their tickets in two and Wichita State is visible only with binoculars. Evansville is rumored to be lingering in the paddock.
Creighton will find the "sunny southland" a literal as well as figurative myth. Egypt currently shivers under a sullen January chill and the Dawgs are in no hospitable mood either.
Dana Altman's Blue Jays are no fluke, however. Fresh off an overtime loss to Drake, they are still in line for a possible conference title and will be a tough draw in St. Louis come March.
CREIGHTON AT-A-GLANCE: Lead MVC in Scoring (74.3 ppg.) and FG% (45.9). Four players avg. over 80% from the line and a 10-12 man rotation keeps the needle on full. Star Quality: Dane Watts - 6'8" senior, 12.7 ppg and 6.9 boards. Secret Weapons: Booker Woodfox - 26 of 58 from deep (44.8 %); P'Allen Stinnett - 43 inch vertical and the team's second leading scorer (10.9 ppg). Wild card: Handling the intensity of a raucous SIU Arena.
SOUTHERN AT-A-GLANCE: Currently snakebit in close games, but formidable against the MVC at home. Captain of the Ship: Bryan Mullins (10.8 ppg. / 5.3 apg) - clutch and savvy... the hand on the tiller for this squad. Seniors: Randal Falker (12.2 ppg) and Matt Shaw (12.0 ppg) - if they both show up on the same day the Dawgs roll. Dirty Work: Tyrone Green - explosive in the paint; Tony Boyle - rugged on the glass. Wild card: Last 5 minutes... can this team close out games as well as they close out on defense?
Check out ESPN2 for Saturday's action.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Salukis lose on the boards, fall 63-62
Missouri State grabbed 16 more rebounds than Southern Illinois but the last rebound was the one that cost SIU the game. After an offensive rebound by the Bears on their final possession the Salukis were whistled for a very questionable foul on what appeared to be a clean play. After two foul shots the Dawgs were forced to throw a full court prayer that was picked off, sending the Salukis home with a loss.
With the loss the Salukis fall into a four way tie for 4th place in the Valley. The Salukis struggles on the road continue but even more troublesome is their inability to win close games this season. As Creighton waits in the wings the Salukis will return home Saturday for a game that might define their season.
With the loss the Salukis fall into a four way tie for 4th place in the Valley. The Salukis struggles on the road continue but even more troublesome is their inability to win close games this season. As Creighton waits in the wings the Salukis will return home Saturday for a game that might define their season.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Salukis can move into a 3rd place tie with a win over Missouri State
Wednesday night the Salukis will take on the Missouri State Bears with a chance to move into a 3rd place tie in the Missouri Valley Conference.
Tuesday night Drake beat Creighton in Omaha to move to a perfect 8-0 in the conference. Illinois State is still right behind them at 6-1. Then comes Creighton, who the Salukis could tie at 5-3 if they win on Wednesday, and potentially pass with a head to head win on Saturday night. For now it's one game at a time for Salukis but the schedule does present a nice opportunity for the Dawgs in the topsy turvy MVC.
The Salukis are a team trending upward. They are starting to figure things out on the offensive end, averaging 71 points over their last 4 games.
A big part of the Salukis recent turnaround has been the play of junior guard Bryan Mullins. In the aforementioned 4 game stretch Mullins has a total of 2 turnovers. That's not a typo folks, in his last 144 minutes of play Mullins has only turned the ball over 2 times. In the same stretch Mullins has scored 48 points and handed out 20 assists. That's a 10 to 1 assist to turnover ratio for those of you scoring at home.
Now that he has recovered from a severely sprained ankle Wesley Clemmons is starting to reach his potential as well. Over his last 9 games Clemmons is averaging 10.7 points per game. The slashing style of Clemmons, combined with Joshua Bone's rejuvenated three point shooting gives the Salukis balance and a starting 5 that appears ready to gain some ground in the Valley.
Tuesday night Drake beat Creighton in Omaha to move to a perfect 8-0 in the conference. Illinois State is still right behind them at 6-1. Then comes Creighton, who the Salukis could tie at 5-3 if they win on Wednesday, and potentially pass with a head to head win on Saturday night. For now it's one game at a time for Salukis but the schedule does present a nice opportunity for the Dawgs in the topsy turvy MVC.
The Salukis are a team trending upward. They are starting to figure things out on the offensive end, averaging 71 points over their last 4 games.
A big part of the Salukis recent turnaround has been the play of junior guard Bryan Mullins. In the aforementioned 4 game stretch Mullins has a total of 2 turnovers. That's not a typo folks, in his last 144 minutes of play Mullins has only turned the ball over 2 times. In the same stretch Mullins has scored 48 points and handed out 20 assists. That's a 10 to 1 assist to turnover ratio for those of you scoring at home.
Now that he has recovered from a severely sprained ankle Wesley Clemmons is starting to reach his potential as well. Over his last 9 games Clemmons is averaging 10.7 points per game. The slashing style of Clemmons, combined with Joshua Bone's rejuvenated three point shooting gives the Salukis balance and a starting 5 that appears ready to gain some ground in the Valley.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Saluki Women Beat Creighton in OT
The Saluki Women's squad pulled out a 75-74 OT win over Creighton on Sunday afternoon. The win puts the Salukis at 3-3 in MVC play which is good for 5th place in the current standings.
The Salukis put 6 players in double figures and were paced by Senior guard Erin Pauk who dropped 17 on the Blue Jays.
The most impressive part of the game was the Salukis only committing 4 turnovers which tied a school record. On the flip side, the Salukis forced 18 turnovers on the defensive end. In spite of poor free throw shooting, the ability to take care of the basketball allowed the Salukis to pull out the win.
Next up for the Saluki Women is a trip to Evansville to take on the Aces, who are 4-2 in conference play. The Salukis can move up in the standings with a road win over the Aces on Saturday.
The Salukis put 6 players in double figures and were paced by Senior guard Erin Pauk who dropped 17 on the Blue Jays.
The most impressive part of the game was the Salukis only committing 4 turnovers which tied a school record. On the flip side, the Salukis forced 18 turnovers on the defensive end. In spite of poor free throw shooting, the ability to take care of the basketball allowed the Salukis to pull out the win.
Next up for the Saluki Women is a trip to Evansville to take on the Aces, who are 4-2 in conference play. The Salukis can move up in the standings with a road win over the Aces on Saturday.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Salukis Beat Wichita State, Get Back to .500
The Salukis moved to 4-3 in conference play and 9-9 overall with a 63-52 win over Wichita State on Saturday afternoon.
The Salukis once again got balanced scoring, which has been a trademark in games they have won this season. Randal Falker, Bryan Mullins, and Joshua Bone went for double figures and Southern got a combined 18 points from Tyrone Green, Tony Boyle, and Carlton Fay off the bench.
The energy was there from the start for the Salukis and Wichita State struggled to match SIU's intensity. Carlton Fay showed the hustle that Saluki fan's love to see after grabbing a ball on the baseline and flinging it to a teammate before landing in the second row of the bleachers. After the game, Fay quipped, "I was just going to see if there was any food down there, maybe grab some popcorn or something." All jokes aside, when Fay and Boyle are able to contribute, the Saluki front line is tough to stop. For evidence that the Shockers had a tough time with the Saluki big men, look no further than Phillip Thomasson and JT Durley, who both fouled out of the game.
The Saluki 'D' was in top form against Wichita State. Bryan Mullins pestered Shocker PG Gal Mekel all night and PJ Couisnard was held to an incredible 1 of 12 shooting.
The Salukis head to Springfield on Wednesday to take on Missouri State. If Southern can beat the Bears they'll take the season series and be back on track to contend in the Valley.
The Salukis once again got balanced scoring, which has been a trademark in games they have won this season. Randal Falker, Bryan Mullins, and Joshua Bone went for double figures and Southern got a combined 18 points from Tyrone Green, Tony Boyle, and Carlton Fay off the bench.
The energy was there from the start for the Salukis and Wichita State struggled to match SIU's intensity. Carlton Fay showed the hustle that Saluki fan's love to see after grabbing a ball on the baseline and flinging it to a teammate before landing in the second row of the bleachers. After the game, Fay quipped, "I was just going to see if there was any food down there, maybe grab some popcorn or something." All jokes aside, when Fay and Boyle are able to contribute, the Saluki front line is tough to stop. For evidence that the Shockers had a tough time with the Saluki big men, look no further than Phillip Thomasson and JT Durley, who both fouled out of the game.
The Saluki 'D' was in top form against Wichita State. Bryan Mullins pestered Shocker PG Gal Mekel all night and PJ Couisnard was held to an incredible 1 of 12 shooting.
The Salukis head to Springfield on Wednesday to take on Missouri State. If Southern can beat the Bears they'll take the season series and be back on track to contend in the Valley.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Around the Valley
The conference season is one-third of the way into the books, which means it's time to take a look around the Valley...
Drake (6-0, 15-1)
The Bulldogs play suffocating defense, allowing just 57.4 ppg, and the inside-outside combination of Josh Young (16.3 ppg) and Jonathan Cox (8.5 rpg) has developed into the league's finest. A 6-point loss on the road at St. Mary's is the only blemish thus far and Drake led by eight late in that contest. The nation is starting to take notice as the Bulldogs were #26 in the latest AP Poll.
Illinois State (6-0 , 14-3)
This team full of highly prized recruits has finally arrived. Osiris Eldridge and Levi Dyer have gotten most of the attention, but Boo Richardson has posted almost 3.5 assists for every turnover and is arguably the league's top point guard. Up next, the Redbirds have 4 of 5 on the road.
Creighton (4-2 , 13-3)
The Bluejays are the youngest team in the Valley and they seem to be on the fast track to a top 4 slot in this year's Arch Madness. After opening the conference season with losses to Illinois State and Indiana State, Creighton has now won four straight, including three on the road.
Indiana State (4-2 , 9-7)
Sandwiched between 20+ point losses to Drake and Missouri State was a 2-OT victory over SIU. The Sycamores are talented, but they have yet to show the consistency required to win this writer over. Still, credit is due for the strong start posted and their potential is considerable.
Southern Illinois (3-3 , 8-9)
A team that is competing against the Temple Owls in the battle to become the best .500 team in the nation, the Salukis have a favorable upcoming schedule and the talent to really make a push. When this team is clicking, they still look like the best team in the Valley, but those moments have been few and far between thus far.
Missouri State (3-3 , 10-8)
Deven Mitchell is putting up All-Valley numbers, but the supporting cast has yet to distinguish itself. The Bears have played everybody tough and blown out Indiana State, so a move up the ladder isn't out of the question.
Northern Iowa (2-4 , 10-7)
Without a true point guard, the Panthers have struggled to get enough production on the offensive end to move out of the lower tier. Eric Coleman is still the most consistent low post presence in the league and leads the Valley with 12.4 rpg.
Wichita State (1-5 , 8-9)
The Shockers are still developing young talent and have struggled in league play, but they are the #1 rebounding team in the Valley and are in the top 20 scoring defenses in the nation.
Bradley (1-5 , 8-10)
Daniel Ruffin can't get back fast enough. When he does return it might simply mean a reshuffling of seats on the deck of the Titanic, as this ship appears to be going down quick.
Evansville (0-6 , 5-11)
Competing without Seniors and featuring guard Shy Ely, the future appears bright for Evansville. Despite Ely's 28 point performance against Illinois State, the Aces still took a loss and they lack the firepower to stay with the rest of the league for a full 40.
Southern plays Wichita State on Saturday at 2pm. The Salukis will look to build towards a top spot in the Valley. If the Salukis and the Bluejays both win out this week, the ESPN Gameday crew will have lots to talk about when they hit Southern Illionis next Saturday.
For even more coverage of the Salukis and the MVC listen to the Sunday Sports Review at 10AM on 91.1 WDBX.
Drake (6-0, 15-1)
The Bulldogs play suffocating defense, allowing just 57.4 ppg, and the inside-outside combination of Josh Young (16.3 ppg) and Jonathan Cox (8.5 rpg) has developed into the league's finest. A 6-point loss on the road at St. Mary's is the only blemish thus far and Drake led by eight late in that contest. The nation is starting to take notice as the Bulldogs were #26 in the latest AP Poll.
Illinois State (6-0 , 14-3)
This team full of highly prized recruits has finally arrived. Osiris Eldridge and Levi Dyer have gotten most of the attention, but Boo Richardson has posted almost 3.5 assists for every turnover and is arguably the league's top point guard. Up next, the Redbirds have 4 of 5 on the road.
Creighton (4-2 , 13-3)
The Bluejays are the youngest team in the Valley and they seem to be on the fast track to a top 4 slot in this year's Arch Madness. After opening the conference season with losses to Illinois State and Indiana State, Creighton has now won four straight, including three on the road.
Indiana State (4-2 , 9-7)
Sandwiched between 20+ point losses to Drake and Missouri State was a 2-OT victory over SIU. The Sycamores are talented, but they have yet to show the consistency required to win this writer over. Still, credit is due for the strong start posted and their potential is considerable.
Southern Illinois (3-3 , 8-9)
A team that is competing against the Temple Owls in the battle to become the best .500 team in the nation, the Salukis have a favorable upcoming schedule and the talent to really make a push. When this team is clicking, they still look like the best team in the Valley, but those moments have been few and far between thus far.
Missouri State (3-3 , 10-8)
Deven Mitchell is putting up All-Valley numbers, but the supporting cast has yet to distinguish itself. The Bears have played everybody tough and blown out Indiana State, so a move up the ladder isn't out of the question.
Northern Iowa (2-4 , 10-7)
Without a true point guard, the Panthers have struggled to get enough production on the offensive end to move out of the lower tier. Eric Coleman is still the most consistent low post presence in the league and leads the Valley with 12.4 rpg.
Wichita State (1-5 , 8-9)
The Shockers are still developing young talent and have struggled in league play, but they are the #1 rebounding team in the Valley and are in the top 20 scoring defenses in the nation.
Bradley (1-5 , 8-10)
Daniel Ruffin can't get back fast enough. When he does return it might simply mean a reshuffling of seats on the deck of the Titanic, as this ship appears to be going down quick.
Evansville (0-6 , 5-11)
Competing without Seniors and featuring guard Shy Ely, the future appears bright for Evansville. Despite Ely's 28 point performance against Illinois State, the Aces still took a loss and they lack the firepower to stay with the rest of the league for a full 40.
Southern plays Wichita State on Saturday at 2pm. The Salukis will look to build towards a top spot in the Valley. If the Salukis and the Bluejays both win out this week, the ESPN Gameday crew will have lots to talk about when they hit Southern Illionis next Saturday.
For even more coverage of the Salukis and the MVC listen to the Sunday Sports Review at 10AM on 91.1 WDBX.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Salukis Get First Road Win of the Season
Southern came out red hot and their 15-0 run to start the game propelled them to an 80-67 road win over Evansville.
Randal Falker led the way with 19 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 blocked shots in just 25 minutes of play. On the Magic 95.1 postgame Falker acknowledged that the team must play with more consistency. "It's up to us. We control our destiny. We have to play our best every game... every single game," said Falker.
The Salukis had good balance offensively. Bryan Mullins (14), Wesley Clemmons (14), and Tony Boyle (10) joined Falker in scoring double figures.
Coming into the game the Salukis had only shot 31% from 3 point range on the year. Tonight the Salukis were 9 of 17 (53%) from beyond the arc. Joshua Bone got back on track hitting 3 of 5 from downtown.
It was a nice win for SIU, but considering Evansville does not have any Seniors and came into this game 0-5 in Valley play, this was a game the Salukis had to win.
Southern is now back to the .500 mark in the MVC at 3-3 which puts them in 5th place with 12 games to play. If the Salukis are going to make a run in the conference, the time is now - 3 of their next 4 games are at SIU Arena.
Randal Falker led the way with 19 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 blocked shots in just 25 minutes of play. On the Magic 95.1 postgame Falker acknowledged that the team must play with more consistency. "It's up to us. We control our destiny. We have to play our best every game... every single game," said Falker.
The Salukis had good balance offensively. Bryan Mullins (14), Wesley Clemmons (14), and Tony Boyle (10) joined Falker in scoring double figures.
Coming into the game the Salukis had only shot 31% from 3 point range on the year. Tonight the Salukis were 9 of 17 (53%) from beyond the arc. Joshua Bone got back on track hitting 3 of 5 from downtown.
It was a nice win for SIU, but considering Evansville does not have any Seniors and came into this game 0-5 in Valley play, this was a game the Salukis had to win.
Southern is now back to the .500 mark in the MVC at 3-3 which puts them in 5th place with 12 games to play. If the Salukis are going to make a run in the conference, the time is now - 3 of their next 4 games are at SIU Arena.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Indiana State Tops Southern in 2OT Thriller
The Salukis came into Saturday night's game 0-5 on the road while Indiana St. was a perfect 7-0 at home. After 2 overtimes in Terre Haute, both trends continued.
Southern controlled the pace for most of regulation and got a boost from Tyrone Green who scored a career high 14 points in the first 40 minutes of play. Green was a bright spot for SIU in the loss - driving to the basket, getting easy shots, and performing at the foul line, hitting all 4 free throws he attempted.
The Salukis had a chance to win on the final possession of regulation. Bryan Mullins drove the lane but the defense collapsed, the passing lanes closed, and Mullins misfired on a tough shot at the buzzer.
Mullins came right back in the first OT with a 3 ball, and Matt Shaw's lay-in made it a 52-47 lead on the next possession. Unfortunately for the Salukis they did not score again during the first OT.
Indiana State was able force a second overtime when Sophomore Marico Stinson nailed a 3 to tie the game at 52 all.
In the second overtime Stinson continued to make his mark. After a cold start, Stinson was in the zone when it mattered, hitting a clutch 3 to put the Sycamores ahead 59-57.
With 35 seconds remaining Southern got the ball down by 2. Mullins came through with a wide open 3 to put the Salukis on top, but not for long.
Marico Stinson put the finishing touches on his 20 point performance with a game winning 3 ball for Indiana State. It was yet another heartbreaker in a season filled with tough losses for the Salukis.
The Sycamores passed a huge test in the effort to contend for an MVC title, while Southern will go back to the drawing board and continue to look for their first road win of the season Tuesday night in Evansville.
Southern controlled the pace for most of regulation and got a boost from Tyrone Green who scored a career high 14 points in the first 40 minutes of play. Green was a bright spot for SIU in the loss - driving to the basket, getting easy shots, and performing at the foul line, hitting all 4 free throws he attempted.
The Salukis had a chance to win on the final possession of regulation. Bryan Mullins drove the lane but the defense collapsed, the passing lanes closed, and Mullins misfired on a tough shot at the buzzer.
Mullins came right back in the first OT with a 3 ball, and Matt Shaw's lay-in made it a 52-47 lead on the next possession. Unfortunately for the Salukis they did not score again during the first OT.
Indiana State was able force a second overtime when Sophomore Marico Stinson nailed a 3 to tie the game at 52 all.
In the second overtime Stinson continued to make his mark. After a cold start, Stinson was in the zone when it mattered, hitting a clutch 3 to put the Sycamores ahead 59-57.
With 35 seconds remaining Southern got the ball down by 2. Mullins came through with a wide open 3 to put the Salukis on top, but not for long.
Marico Stinson put the finishing touches on his 20 point performance with a game winning 3 ball for Indiana State. It was yet another heartbreaker in a season filled with tough losses for the Salukis.
The Sycamores passed a huge test in the effort to contend for an MVC title, while Southern will go back to the drawing board and continue to look for their first road win of the season Tuesday night in Evansville.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Carlton Fay Interview
In a Salukihoops.com exclusive interview - Carlton Fay talks about his comfort level in the offense, his ability to take a charge, and his keys to success on the upcoming road trip.
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Salukis Find Identity In Win Over Bradley
Carlton Fay and Tyrone Green are two vastly different players, but both guys put up big games by playing to their strengths.
On the advice of Coach Lowery, Green scored 12 points by driving to the basket and getting easy buckets. Green said that Lowery told him to "be aggressive and go to the rim. They're not guarding you. So that's what I did."
Carlton Fay was in the flow, going 3 of 5 from three point range and scoring 11 points in 18 minutes off the bench. Lowery assessed his freshman forward by saying, "He's getting better. His minutes have gone up, he's made shots, and he's not looking at me every time he does something (wrong) and that's key"
Establishing roles for Green and Fay is an important step for the Salukis. At times this season the Salukis have struggled to identify individual roles. "We have to find an identity because we don't have one and hopefully games like this get us going," acknowledged Lowery after the game.
As a team SIU played a hard nosed, yet disciplined, style of basketball that has been a trademark of recent Saluki squads. Southern went 20 of 21 from the foul line, scored points off takeaways, and took care of the basketball on offense. In order to succeed on the road this year's team must continue to define itself with that combination of energy, effort, and discipline.
On the advice of Coach Lowery, Green scored 12 points by driving to the basket and getting easy buckets. Green said that Lowery told him to "be aggressive and go to the rim. They're not guarding you. So that's what I did."
Carlton Fay was in the flow, going 3 of 5 from three point range and scoring 11 points in 18 minutes off the bench. Lowery assessed his freshman forward by saying, "He's getting better. His minutes have gone up, he's made shots, and he's not looking at me every time he does something (wrong) and that's key"
Establishing roles for Green and Fay is an important step for the Salukis. At times this season the Salukis have struggled to identify individual roles. "We have to find an identity because we don't have one and hopefully games like this get us going," acknowledged Lowery after the game.
As a team SIU played a hard nosed, yet disciplined, style of basketball that has been a trademark of recent Saluki squads. Southern went 20 of 21 from the foul line, scored points off takeaways, and took care of the basketball on offense. In order to succeed on the road this year's team must continue to define itself with that combination of energy, effort, and discipline.
SIU vs Bradley postgame press conference audio
Listen to the post game press conference featuring Chris Lowery, Carlton Fay, Tyrone Green, and Matt Shaw.
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Salukihoops Webcast
In this edition of the Salukihoops webcast we discuss the two road losses to Illinois State and Drake, then take a look ahead to Tuesday's game against Bradley.
Also, tune into the Sunday Sports review at 10am on 91.1 WDBX for more Saluki discussion.
Also, tune into the Sunday Sports review at 10am on 91.1 WDBX for more Saluki discussion.
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Slow Start Dooms the Salukis
It was a long 16 minutes for the Salukis. Finally with 4 minutes left in the first half Wesley Clemmons hit a field goal for SIU, their first of the game. By then Illinois State had already built a 25-5 lead and had established a stranglehold on the game.
Indecision, turnovers, and downright poor shooting plagued the Salukis in this contest. It was a struggle for Southern from the jump, as they failed to even attempt a field goal in the first 4 minutes.
The Saluki offense is stuck in neutral, and it's going to take a team effort to get things back in order. Falker has to get it started by working for more buckets in the post. Bryan Mullins must limit turnovers; he had more turnovers (5) than assists (4) on Saturday night. Matt Shaw has to work to become more consistent. Clemmons and Bone must carry more of the scoring load; they combined for just 9 points on Saturday and that's not enough.
It's possible that Chris Lowery could look to his bench for scoring help. Tony Boyle only played 10 minutes in this game and he could take on a bigger role. Carlton Fay chipped in 6 points in 12 minutes but he also committed four fouls. Fay really can't be considered for more minutes until he learns to play without fouling.
Whatever happens Lowery must find a way to make his players more comfortable in the offense. A return to SIU Arena could help in the short term. Southern has shot the ball pretty well at home this year and their next game is in Carbondale. A long term solution will be necessary because the Salukis have to go right back on the road where they are 0-5 this season. Lowery is faced with the difficult task of getting his players to be more confident shooting the ball in a hostile environment.
Give Illinois State some credit, they have made it clear that they are no longer bottom feeders in the MVC. With a 3-0 record in the conference the Redbirds are poised to make a run at the conference championship and with an RPI of 43 some might argue that they are the best team in the state this season.
With the loss the Salukis fall to 6-8 and 1-2 in conference play. Their #7 Strength of Schedule makes the sub .500 record look a little better but Strength of Schedule alone doesn't get you into the dance.
The Salukis will have a chance to get their second win of Valley play vs Bradley on Tuesday. Bradley is a disappointing 0-3 in conference play, they are missing their All-MVC point guard Daniel Ruffin, and the game is at SIU Arena. The Salukis desperately need to take advantage of these factors to get their season back on track.
Indecision, turnovers, and downright poor shooting plagued the Salukis in this contest. It was a struggle for Southern from the jump, as they failed to even attempt a field goal in the first 4 minutes.
The Saluki offense is stuck in neutral, and it's going to take a team effort to get things back in order. Falker has to get it started by working for more buckets in the post. Bryan Mullins must limit turnovers; he had more turnovers (5) than assists (4) on Saturday night. Matt Shaw has to work to become more consistent. Clemmons and Bone must carry more of the scoring load; they combined for just 9 points on Saturday and that's not enough.
It's possible that Chris Lowery could look to his bench for scoring help. Tony Boyle only played 10 minutes in this game and he could take on a bigger role. Carlton Fay chipped in 6 points in 12 minutes but he also committed four fouls. Fay really can't be considered for more minutes until he learns to play without fouling.
Whatever happens Lowery must find a way to make his players more comfortable in the offense. A return to SIU Arena could help in the short term. Southern has shot the ball pretty well at home this year and their next game is in Carbondale. A long term solution will be necessary because the Salukis have to go right back on the road where they are 0-5 this season. Lowery is faced with the difficult task of getting his players to be more confident shooting the ball in a hostile environment.
Give Illinois State some credit, they have made it clear that they are no longer bottom feeders in the MVC. With a 3-0 record in the conference the Redbirds are poised to make a run at the conference championship and with an RPI of 43 some might argue that they are the best team in the state this season.
With the loss the Salukis fall to 6-8 and 1-2 in conference play. Their #7 Strength of Schedule makes the sub .500 record look a little better but Strength of Schedule alone doesn't get you into the dance.
The Salukis will have a chance to get their second win of Valley play vs Bradley on Tuesday. Bradley is a disappointing 0-3 in conference play, they are missing their All-MVC point guard Daniel Ruffin, and the game is at SIU Arena. The Salukis desperately need to take advantage of these factors to get their season back on track.
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Dawgs Caught Napping at the Knapp Center
For the first time since February of 1999, the Salukis were defeated by the Drake Bulldogs. The Dawgs trailed by 5 at the half, but failed to close the gap after intermission and the final margin was 10... 61-51.
The Salukis were led by Wesley Clemmons who finished with 13. Matt Shaw and Randal Falker were limited by early foul trouble and combined for 12 points. As a team, the Dawgs shot just 39% from the field and were 6 of 13 from the free throw line. Too many empty possessions and not enough trips to the foul line continue to plague the Salukis.
The Bulldogs hit 20 of 30 from the charity stripe and Josh Young finished with 24. At this point, I have to admit that Drake is a Valley title contender. They can outshoot a zone and outquick a man-to-man. Since the jerseys still say "Drake," they will have to prove themselves every step of the way, but they certainly looked strong in this contest.
The Salukis are in action again this Saturday at Illinois State. The Redbirds have knocked off Creighton and Wichita State, both on the road, to start Valley play.
The Salukis were led by Wesley Clemmons who finished with 13. Matt Shaw and Randal Falker were limited by early foul trouble and combined for 12 points. As a team, the Dawgs shot just 39% from the field and were 6 of 13 from the free throw line. Too many empty possessions and not enough trips to the foul line continue to plague the Salukis.
The Bulldogs hit 20 of 30 from the charity stripe and Josh Young finished with 24. At this point, I have to admit that Drake is a Valley title contender. They can outshoot a zone and outquick a man-to-man. Since the jerseys still say "Drake," they will have to prove themselves every step of the way, but they certainly looked strong in this contest.
The Salukis are in action again this Saturday at Illinois State. The Redbirds have knocked off Creighton and Wichita State, both on the road, to start Valley play.
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