Shake-ups in the Gulf South Conference...and more...

Here are we...the first full weekend of February, and things are already getting tense and tight on the basketball court...

That's especially the case in the Gulf South Conference, and the East Division in particular. That's where things tightened up after the action of Thursday night.

We start in Florence, Ala., where North Alabama swept Valdosta State in critical GSC twinbill. The Lions crushed the Blazers 91-68, while the UNA women handed the Lady Blazers their second straight setback in a 74-73 thriller in the opener.

The loss to North Alabama proved especially costly for the VSU women, as West Georgia (16-5, 6-1) moved into sole possession of first place in the GSC East with a 70-61 home victory over West Florida. On the men's side, the Lions (15-7, 5-2) moved into a tie for first place after Alabama-Huntsville (14-7, 5-2) fell on the wrong end of a 79-76 upset loss at home to Montevallo.

The surprises in the GSC weren't limited to the East. The West Division also saw its share of shake-ups Thursday night, as No. 25 (WBCA) Delta State (17-6, 7-1) was knocked off by Ouachita Baptist 64-58. On the other hand, the Arkansas-Monticello Cotton Blossoms (15-4, 7-1) might find themselves in the national rankings after they outlasted Christian Brothers 81-72. It was the sixth straight win for the UAM women.

Finally, No. 10 (NABC) Christian Brothers (18-3, 7-1) established itself as the team to beat in the GSC West men's race, as the Buccaneers won their fourth straight game with a 51-43 win over No. 22 Arkansas-Monticello. But be on the lookout for Delta State (16-5, 6-2) going down the stretch. The Statesmen moved into sole possession of second place in that division with a 77-70 win over Ouachita Baptist.

The big games on Saturday...

NOTE: All times local to home team

WOMEN

Valdosta State (15-6, 5-2) at West Georgia (16-5, 6-1)--5:30 p.m. EST

The Wolves look to win their sixth straight game, while the Lady Blazers hope to avoid their first three-game skid of the season.

Honorable mention: Columbus State (12-10, 5-7) at Lander (12-7, 7-5), UNC Pembroke (10-10, 6-7) at Armstrong Atlantic State (12-8, 7-6), Albany State (8-11, 8-6) at Tuskegee (8-10, 8-5).

MEN

West Florida (11-9, 3-4) at North Alabama--3 p.m. CST

Lions look to keep momentum going against the Argonauts.

Honorable mention: Clayton State (12-8, 5-8) at Augusta State (16-4, 10-3), West Alabama (10-11, 3-4) at Alabama-Huntsville (14-7, 5-2).

Baseball and Softball seasons have arrived

Lost in all the hoopla and hype of Sunday's Super Bowl was the arrival of the 2009 baseball and softball seasons, respectively, in D-II South Nation. Click the following link (s) below to find out how and where your favorite team (s) will finish this year.

Gulf South Conference Baseball

Gulf South Conference Softball

Peach Belt Conference Baseball

Peach Belt Conference Softball

Regional rankings...and looking ahead to Super Bowl weekend

While the rest of the U.S. is getting ready for the Super Bowl between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardinals, there are a lot of things going on within D-II South Nation this weekend, at least as far as basketball is concerned. As January fades into February, the contender--slowly, but surely--are starting to be separated from the pretenders. Let's take a brief analysis of the regional rankings in NCAA Division II hoops, then take a look ahead to Saturday's key match-ups.

South Women: The Gulf South Conference leads the way in the initial South Region poll of the season, with four teams ranked in the Top 10, led by No. 2 Delta State, followed by No. 4 Valdosta State, No. 5 West Georgia, and No. 9 Arkansas Tech. The SIAC put two teams into the regional rankings for Week 1, with Fort Valley State ranked No. 6, while Clark-Atlanta is No. 10.

Southeast Women: If there's any doubt that the Peach Belt Conference has arrived as one of the premier conferences in all of NCAA Division II, it's very evident in the first regional rankings of 2009. Francis Marion has proven to be a team to be reckoned with in the Southeast Region, as the Patriots are ranked No. 2 only behind No. 1 Lenoir-Rhyne. USC Aiken also will prove to a serious force in the PBC title race come February, as the Lady Pacers come in at No. 5. Clayton State comes in at No. 6, while Georgia College & State University rounds out the rankings at No. 8.

South Men: For the first time in recent memory, men's teams from the SIAC grabbed the top two spots in this week's South Region poll. No. 2 Benedict, though, may be in line to claim the top spot in the South after knocking off No. 1 Claflin, 55-45, on the road Thursday night. While the GSC has five teams regionally ranked (No. 4 Christian Brothers, No. 5 Arkansas-Monticello, No. 6 Arkansas Tech, No. 9 North Alabama, and No. 10 Delta State), the balance of power just might reside in the West Division, as four of those squads come from that side of the league. The proof in the pudding came Thursday night, as UAM rallied from a 13-point halftime deficit to defeat ATU 56-53. CBU, on the other hand, eased past Southern Arkansas 60-46.

Southeast Men: It was a history-making week for the Peach Belt Conference as far as making its presence felt in basketball polls goes. Not only did the PBC place four teams in the NABC/Division II Bulletin rankings for the first time in conference history, (No. 7 Augusta State, No. 12 Armstrong Atlantic State, No. 14 USC Aiken, and No. 24 Georgia College & State University), it also put six teams in the first-ever Southeast Region poll. As an added bonus, the league also dominated the top four spots on the charts, led by No. 1 ASU, No. 2 GC&SU, No. 3 AASU, and No. 4 USC Aiken. Further showing the strength of the PBC, Clayton State came in at No. 7, followed by North Georgia at No. 8.

Key games this weekend

WOMEN

North Alabama (10-10, 3-2) at West Georgia (14-5, 4-1)--Saturday 5:30 p.m. EST

The Lions face the Wolves in a crucial GSC East contest.

West Florida (7-13, 2-3) at Valdosta State (15-4, 5-0)--Saturday 2 p.m. EST

The Lady Blazers hope to extend their win streak to seven straight games against the Argonauts.

Also keep an eye on: Harding (13-5, 1-5) at Ouachita Baptist (12-6, 2-4), Henderson State (9-9, 3-3) at Delta State (16-5, 6-0), Armstrong Atlantic State (11-6, 6-4) at USC Aiken (15-5, 7-3), and UNC Pembroke (9-8, 5-5) at Clayton State (13-4, 7-3).

MEN

#7 Augusta State (14-3, 8-2) at #24 Georgia College & State University (14-2, 8-2)--Saturday 4 p.m. EST

#12 Armstrong Atlantic State (15-2, 8-2) at #14 USC Aiken (13-4, 8-2)--Saturday 7:30 p.m. EST

The top four teams in the Peach Belt Conference square off against each other this weekend. When the dust finally settles, at least two of those teams will be tied for first place in league play.

#17 Christian Brothers (16-3, 5-1) at #22 Arkansas Tech (14-5, 4-2)--Saturday 6 p.m. CST

The Buccaneers need a win to keep pace with No. 16 Arkansas-Monticello (16-3, 5-1) in the GSC West, while the Wonder Boys look to snap a two-game losing streak.

Also keep an eye on: Francis Marion (11-5, 4-5) at North Georgia (9-7, 3-7), West Florida (10-8, 2-3) at Valdosta State (15-4, 3-2), and Harding (12-7, 2-4) at Ouachita Baptist (12-7, 2-4)

Thursday Night Showcase--D-II Style

Wow! Are we almost three full weeks into 2009 already? Yes, it's hard to believe, but true.

Having said that, how about Thursday night basketball action in D-II South Nation.

Due to a small gas explosion on the campus of the University of West Alabama, tonight's basketball contests between UWA and Valdosta State have been postponed. Those games are expected to be made up Saturday, unless otherwise noted. The twinbill between West Alabama and West Florida, at UWF in Pensacola, Fla, will be played on Sunday instead of Saturday.

As for the games that will actually be played, speaking of UWF, both the Argonauts and Lady Argos will travel to central Alabama one last time, as they'll face lame-duck Gulf South Conference member Montevallo in a critical GSC East doubleheader tonight. All four teams at both schools enter that twinbill with identical 1-2 records in conference play, with the Argos and Lady Argos sporting 9-7 and 6-12 records, respectively, while both UM squads have respective 9-10 and 5-13 overall marks.

All eight GSC West schools have their hoops teams in action tonight. That includes the three teams ranked in the top 20 of this week's NABC Division II Bulletin men's poll: Harding at No. 12 Christian Brothers, Ouachita Baptist at No. 17 Arkansas Tech, and Henderson State at No. 19 Arkansas-Monticello.

Finally, in the Peach Belt Conference, Armstrong Atlantic State goes west to Columbus, Ga. to face Columbus State. The women's game should be of particular interest on this Thursday night, as the Lady Pirates are 10-4 overall, and 5-2 in the PBC, while the Lady Cougars are 11-6, and 4-3 in conference games.

Looking ahead to the weekend on the hardwood

While ESPN has a "Blockbuster Saturday" at the NCAA Division I level, D-II South Nation has its share of critical college basketball games in the Division II ranks, too. Here are the games of interest this weekend.



WOMEN



Gulf South Conference



Harding (13-1, 1-1) at Arkansas Tech (12-3, 2-0)--4 p.m. CST



The Golden Suns enter this contest looking to stay unbeaten in GSC West Division play, while the Lady Bisons hope to win their second league contests after splitting their first two contests. One of HU's losses, however, came to a Henderson State (7-7, 1-1) squad that's been up and down for most of the season. It'll be interesting to see how the Harding women will fare against the No. 21 ATU women.



North Alabama (9-9, 2-1) at Valdosta State (12-4, 2-0)--1 p.m. EST



The Lady Blazers managed to stay unbeaten in GSC East after edging archrival West Georgia (11-5, 2-1) to gain sole possession of first place in the division after playing only two league games. As for the UNA women, the Lions must re-group quickly after losing to West Florida 76-71 on Thursday.



Peach Belt Conference



Columbus State (10-5, 3-2) at USC Aiken (12-3, 4-1)--5:30 p.m. EST



The Lady Pacers play host to the Lady Cougars in this critical PBC contest. While USCA had Wednesday night off, CSU needed overtime to defeat a scrappy North Georgia team 69-65. Which goes to show that nothing is easy in the PBC.



Honorable Mention: Georgia College & State University (8-4, 3-2) at Francis Marion (11-1, 4-1), Lander (8-4, 3-2) at Clayton State (11-1, 5-0)



SIAC



Clark-Atlanta (12-1, 8-0) at Kentucky State (9-3, 8-1)--1 p.m. EST



This is perhaps the game of the weekend in this league, the Lady Panthers putting their 12-game winning streak on the line against the Thorobrettes.



MEN



North Alabama (13-5, 3-0) at Valdosta State (13-3, 1-1)--4 p.m. EST



The Lions hope to run their record to 4-0 in GSC East play, while the Blazers look to go over the .500 mark in league games after splitting their first two contests (a loss at Alabama-Huntsville last weekend, followed by a win at home over West Georgia Thursday).



Delta State (11-4, 1-1) at Christian Brothers (13-2, 2-0)--5 p.m. CST



The No. 17 (NABC) Buccaneers will be going for their eighth straight win against the Statesmen, who hope to bounce back after a tough loss to No. 24 Arkansas-Monticello 75-70 on Thursday.



Honorable mention: Alabama-Huntsville (10-5, 3-0) at West Alabama (8-8, 1-1), Harding (11-4, 1-1) at No. 22 Arkansas Tech (12-3, 2-0), Ouachita Baptist (10-5, 0-2) at Arkansas-Monticello (12-3, 1-1)



Peach Belt Conference



Georgia College & State University (9-2, 3-2) at Francis Marion (10-2, 3-2)--4 p.m. EST



The Patriots play host to the Bobcats in a showdown of two-loss teams.



Honorable mention: Augusta State (11-2, 5-1) at North Georgia (8-4, 2-4), Lander (7-4, 3-2) at Clayton State (9-3, 2-3)

The Night That Was...and The Night Ahead

It was an exciting Wednesday in the Peach Belt Conference, as one of that league's last unbeaten women's teams fell hard, while the Gulf South Conference opens league play in the East Division Thursday night.



First off, in the PBC, the Francis Marion Patriot women's quest to run their record to 10-0 fell by the wayside, thanks to Meredith Legg and her game-high 23 points, as the USC Aiken Lady Pacers cruised to a surprisingly easy 75-57 win over FMU. The USCA women improved to 11-3 overall, and 3-1 in conference play with that victory, while the Patriots fell to 9-1 and 2-1 in Peach Belt contests.



In other PBC action, Garrett Siler scored 22 points, while collecting 10 rebounds, as the Augusta State men crushed UNC Pembroke 81-46, while the Clayton State women staved off a strong challenge from Columbus State in pulling out a hard-fought 71-68 win at home. The Laker women stayed unbeaten in PBC play at 4-0, while improving to 10-1 overall, with the win.



Finally, teams in the GSC East officially open Gulf South Conference play Thursday, as Montevallo begins its final season in the season in that conference paying a visit to West Georgia. In other games, Alabama-Huntsville hosts West Florida in a battle of men's teams with identical 7-5 records, while the North Alabama men take their 10-5 overall record into the start of conference play against 6-7 West Alabama.



Remember to watch the D-II South Sports Newsbar for more college sports coverage. So long for now.

Augusta State tops USC Aiken, Lakers fall to Bobcats

In a game that lived up to its billing, No. 7-ranked Augusta State stunned No. 2 USC Aiken 87-76 Monday night. On that same evening, the Georgia College & State University Bobcats handed the No. 25 Clayton State University Lakers their first loss of the season in a 58-49 upset win on the road.

Article courtesy of the Peach Belt Conference

Aiken, Augusta meet for 50th time

The No. 2 University of South Carolina-Aiken Pacers and the No. 7 Augusta State University Jaguars meet for the 50th time in men's basketball Monday night. It's the first time the Peach Belt Conference has had a regular season match-up of nationally ranked teams in the Top 10.

Article courtesy of the Augusta (Ga.) Chronicle

ALSO SEE...

USC Aiken, Augusta State get set for historic showdown

NBCAugusta.com

ASU and USC-Aiken Prepare For Rivalry Game

wrdw.com

First wins of 2009 twice as nice for Tuskegee

A New Year brings a pair of first wins of the season for both Tuskegee's teams...at Albany State's expense Saturday night.

Article courtesy of the Albany (Ga.) Herald

Georgia Southwestern upsets Francis Marion men

The Georgia Southwestern State University Hurricanes ended the Francis Marion University Patriots dream of an undefeated season, as they pull off the upset at home, 92-79 Saturday.

Article courtesy of scnow.com

A "Peachy" first Saturday of 2009!

A new calendar year means the start of the conference play in earnest, and the Peach Belt Conference will set out to prove that's one other toughest NCAA Division II conferences in the nation once again.

In women's action, Augusta State (3-5) will look to improve to 2-0 in the PBC against Clayton State (7-1, 1-0) on the road. Meanwhile, in Aiken, S.C., preseason favorite USC Aiken hopes to bounce from an upset loss to Armstrong Atlantic State, and face a North Georgia squad that's also 0-1 in conference play. Francis Marion (8-0) will look to continue its perfect season against Georgia Southwestern State, while Columbus State (7-3) hosts Lander (6-2) in the league opener for the Lady Cougars. The Lady Bearcats, won their first PBC contest on Dec. 15, a 72-58 win over GSW.

The men's side isn't short on key match-ups. One of those contests pits Augusta State (7-1) against Clayton State (8-0). Both the Jaguars and Lakers enter this critical game at 1-0. Augusta's archrival--USC Aiken (6-2) hosts a North Georgia team that's 6-1 overall, but that one loss has come in PBC play, a tough 80-77 setback to Francis Marion on Dec. 15. Speaking of the Patriots, they'll hope to join their female counterparts in running their record to 9-0 at Georgia Southwestern this weekend.

Looking ahead to the new year...

With 2008 now in the rear-view mirror, it's time for basketball teams in D-II South Nation to start focusing on 2009...



For the most part, there's no more beating up on teams like Allen University. Or Carver. Or St. Thomas (Fla.). Or even Voorhees, for that matter. The start of a new calendar year usually means conference play starts in earnest. With that in mind, let's take a brief look at how the three conferences covered by D-II South Sports are shaping up going into the remainder of this season.



WOMEN


Gulf South Conference: Despite three losses, Arkansas Tech is the lone team to be nationally ranked, as the Golden Suns are ranked 20th in the most recent WBCA poll. The lone undefeated squad going into the new year, however, is Harding. The Lady Bisons enter 2009 at 11-0, and are one of six teams in the West Division that have winning records going into GSC play. On the other hand, Valdosta State (9-3) and West Georgia (8-4) are the only East Division teams to have winning records going into the new year.

Peach Belt Conference: Unlike the Gulf South Conference, all but one of the teams in the PBC have played at least one league contest prior to New Year's Eve. Armstrong Atlantic State (7-2) is currently in first place at 2-0, while Francis Marion, Clayton State, Lander, and Augusta State are all 1-0. Columbus State (7-3) is the only PBC team that hasn't started conference play. Of the quartet that's 1-0 in the PBC, Francis Marion is the only team with an overall undefeated record at 8-0.

SIAC: Four teams are unbeaten in league play going into 2009. Preseason favorite Kentucky State (5-2) is 4-0, while three other teams; Clark Atlanta (7-1), Fort Valley State (4-4), and Albany State (3-3) aren't that far behind at 3-0.

MEN

Gulf South Conference: Valdosta State (12-2) has exceeded the expectations of many observers in the East Division so far, as both of the Blazers have come by a combined of three points, to Sunshine State Conference foes Florida Southern and Lynn, respectively. That's not to mention the VSU men are also tied for the No. 25 national ranking with Clayton State in the most recent NABC/Division II Bulletin poll. But the balance of power in the GSC just might be in the West Division, as Arkansas-Monticello is sitting at No. 5, Arkansas Tech at No. 20, while Christian Brothers, Harding and Ouachita Baptist received votes.


Peach Belt Conference: Unpredictability might be the name of the game on the men's side of the PBC, as nine of the league's 11 teams have at least a .500 or better record coming into the New Year. One of the league's surprise teams thus far is Francis Marion, whose Patriots are off to their best start since the 2003-04 season at 8-0. Defending conference tournament champion Clayton State is also off to an 8-0 start, while preseason favorite (and currently No. 2 nationally ranked) USC Aiken has lost back-to-back games after a 6-0 start. Defending national runner-up Augusta State is 7-1 so far this season, and goes into 2009 ranked No. 7 in the NABC poll.

SIAC: As expected, Benedict (3-1, 2-0) has been leading the way thus far, as the Tigers currently hold sole possession of first place in the men's standings. As for SIAC newcomer Claflin, the Panthers have held their own in this underrated league, as they're off to a 9-1 start, in overall as well as conference play. In fact, Miles handed Claflin its first loss of the season in a 66-58 upset loss on Dec. 30.

Introducing the D-II South Sports Newsbar

Keeping up with the ever-evolving technology the Internet constantly provides, D-II South Sports presents the "D-II South Sports Newsbar". Here, fans in D-II South Nation can keep up with the latest headlines and news--not only from within the Gulf South Conference, Peach Belt Conference, and the SIAC--but also headlines from select sporting events throughout NCAA Division II and elsewhere. Simply click the keywords listed below the "D-II South Sports Newsbar" column, and find the news that interests you. Otherwise, sit back, and enjoy searching for the news you can't get anywhere else, only on D-II South Sports.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

AND

HAPPY NEW YEAR

FROM

D-II SOUTH SPORTS!

Remembering the 2008 Fall Sports Season

As Christmas approaches, let's take one last look at the fall sports season in D-II South Nation for 2008...

Volleyball: Armstrong Atlantic State made history, as the Lady Pirates advanced to the Elite Eight for the first-time ever this season. But their run was cut short in the national quarterfinals by Grand Valley State in a three-game sweep. West Florida also had a historic run in the South Regional, reaching the Sweet 16 before falling to Nova Southeastern in five games. As for eight-time SIAC champion Albany State, the Lady Rams were swept by the University of Tampa despite winning a school record 31 matches.

Women's Soccer: Despite being the lone Gulf South Conference team in the dance, the University of West Florida Lady Argonauts reached the national finals, but lost to Seattle Pacific in double overtime, 1-0. One of the teams the Lady Argonauts defeated en route to the title match was Columbus State, which was one of three teams (Georgia College & State University and UNC Pembroke were the others) from the Peach Belt Conference to advance to the NCAA Division II tournament. UWF edged CSU 1-0 in the national quarterfinals on Nov. 23.

Men's Soccer: It was a disappointing run for the three teams that represented D-II South Nation in that sport's NCAA tournament in 2008. In the South Regional bracket, West Florida and Montevallo both suffered bitter season-ending to Sunshine State Conference foes Lynn and Tampa, respectively. The Argos lost to the Knights 5-2, while the Falcons fell to the Spartans, 1-0. It wasn't much better for the Peach Belt Conference, either, as that league's only representative, the Lander Bearcats, were eliminated by Limestone, 2-1.

More reaction to Montevallo, Flagler joining Peach Belt Conference, plus an analysis

As reported on Thursday, the Peach Belt Conference has accepted the University of Montevallo (Ala.), and Flagler College of St. Augustine, Fla. for membership in the current 11-school NCAA Division II conference, effective with the 2009-10 season. Here's some reaction from select local media outlets throughout D-II South Nation.

Flagler going to Peach Belt

St. Augustine (Fla.) Record (via staugustine.com)

Peach Belt Conference adds two new teams

Albany (Ga.) Herald

Flagler, Montevallo to join Peach Belt next season

Americus (Ga.) Times-Recorder

Peach Belt accepts Montevallo

Shelby County (Ala.) Reporter

Analysis: Adding both Montevallo and Flagler to the PBC mix makes good sense not only for both institutions, but for the league as a whole. The league's decision to admit both schools fits both the academic and athletic missions well--as it seeks to admit institutions that are neither too big nor too small in terms of enrollment.

Also, the fact the Gulf South Conference sponsors football--a sport that UM doesn't have--no doubt proved to be a factor in the Falcons decision to join the PBC. As for Flagler, the Florida-based school not only made history by becoming the first private school to join the league, it's also a welcome replacement for the departed University of North Florida, a former Peach Belt member that's still completing its transition to the NCAA Division I ranks, and the Atlantic Sun Conference.

In terms of what this expansion means for the PBC as a whole, it could turn out to be just the beginning, not the end, for the continued transformation of the 18-year old league, whose history dates back to 1991. In fact, don't be surprised if other current non-football members of the GSC; specifically Alabama-Huntsville and West Florida, decide to join Montevallo in the PBC down the road.

Perhaps the best part of this expansion might be that both institutions have already completed the transition process from the NAIA to the NCAA Division II ranks, and will immediately become eligible to compete for championships in what's becoming one of the toughest D-II conferences in the nation. As for disadvantages, the addition of two new schools will surely creates some scheduling headaches, not to mention travel issues, as Montevallo will become the first Alabama--as well as Central Time Zone--institution to compete in the PBC. Imagine what it would be like for teams at the University of North Carolina-Pembroke, for example, to make the long trip to Alabama for PBC contests. Or vice versa. Or even all the way to northern Florida, for that matter. It'll be interesting to see what happens in terms of scheduling both teams.

Montevallo, Flagler join Peach Belt Conference

Perhaps one of the worst kept secrets in NCAA Division II athletics became a reality Thursday, as the University of Montevallo (Ala.), as well as Flagler College of St. Augustine, Fla., joined the Peach Belt Conference. UM is currently a member of the Gulf South Conference, while Flagler currently competes as an independent. Both schools will join the PBC effective with the 2009-10 season.

Article courtesy of the Peach Belt Conference.

Valdosta State men win at buzzer

The Valdosta State University men's basketball team finished an 11-game homestand with a bang--and a buzzer beater--as the Blazers downed the University of Tampa, 80-79 Tuesday night.

Article courtesy of Valdosta State University Sports Information

Column: Blazers fun to watch

At 6-1, the Valdosta State University men's basketball team is winning with a fast-paced style of play thus far in 2008-09.

Article courtesy of Valdosta (Ga.) Daily Times

Showdown of 3-0 teams from Sunshine State

The University of West Florida men play host to the University of Tampa in a battle of 3-0 NCAA Division II men's basketball teams Friday at Pensacola, Fla. The Argos hope to return to the Gulf South Conference tournament this season after missing out on it four years in a row, while the Spartans hope to return to the NCAA Division II tournament after finishing 21-9 a year ago.

Game Notes--Tampa at West Florida (Men)--1 p.m. CST

University of West Florida

University of Tampa

Augusta State-Benedict Men's Basketball Game Notes

The defending NCAA Division II men's basketball runners-up face off against the defending SIAC regular season and tournament champion Tigers in the season opener for both teams.

Game notes courtesy of Augusta State University Sports Information

Know your state

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution recently published a special section on the small college basketball programs in the state of Georgia, including the teams competing at the NCAA Division II level. Click the link below.

Click here!

GSW women win season opener against UNA

The Georgia Southwestern State University women's basketball team actually won their season opener? Yes, they did, against North Alabama of all teams. Final score: GSW 60, UNA 52.

Article courtesy of the Albany (Ga.) Herald

NCAA Division II Volleyball Field Announced

The 64-team field for the 2008 NCAA Division II volleyball championships have been announced. And D-II South Nation is well represented. Here's how the brackets for both the South and Southeast Regionals, respectively, look below, with links to teams in conferences covered by D-II South Sports highlighted below.

South Region Hosted by University of Tampa, Tampa, Florida - November 20-22

No. 1 Tampa (25-4) vs. No. 8 Albany State (Georgia) (31-3)
No. 2 Florida Southern (25-8) vs. No. 7 Saint Leo (28-10)
No. 3 Lynn (24-12) vs. No. 6 Nova Southeastern (21-11)
No. 4 West Florida (29-7) vs. Eckerd (20-13)

Southeast Region Hosted by Wingate University, Wingate, North Carolina - November 21-23

No. 1 Wingate (30-1) vs. No. 8 Anderson (South Carolina) (24-13)
No. 2 Carson-Newman (24-14) vs. No. 7 Lincoln Memorial (20-15)
No. 3 Armstrong Atlantic State (25-6) vs. No. 6 Lander (20-9)
No. 4 Catawba (20-10) vs. No. 5 Francis Marion (23-8)

Source: NCAA.com (including entire 64-team field)

AASU Men's Hoops Notches Season Opening Win

Article courtesy of Armstrong Atlantic State University Sports Information

Pirates Win Men's Basketball Opener, 77-58 Over Queens (NC)

SAVANNAH, Ga. - Senior guard T.T. Hall led the way with 19 points as the Armstrong Atlantic State men's basketball team picked up a 77-58 season-opening win over visiting Queens (N.C.) on Monday evening at Alumni Arena.

For head coach Jeff Burkhamer and the Pirates (1-0), it was a sixth straight opening-season win, with three of those six wins coming against the visiting Royals (0-1). Both teams came into the matchup returning just four players from 2007-08, and the Pirates had the upper hand early in the contest.

AASU jumped out to a quick 13-3 lead in the first five minutes, thanks to defensive pressure that forced six Queens turnovers in those five minutes and 16 overall in the first half. The Pirates finished the half with 10 steals and took a 38-24 lead into halftime.

The Royals came out after the intermission and scored the first seven points, eventually cutting the AASU lead to six, 40-34, with 15:36 remaining. The Pirates answered back quickly as T.T. Hall and Keron McKenzie drained back-to-back three pointers, pushing the lead back to double digits, where it stayed for the rest of the night.

Hall finished the night 6-of-19 from the foor, including 3-of-12 three-pointers, for his game-high 19 points but also added six rebounds and four steals. Senior Uriah Hethington came off the bench to record 14 points and nine rebounds on 7-of-12 shooting from the floor, while senior Brian Moultrie added 11 points and six rebounds. Junior point guard Gabriel Robinson dished out nine assists as well.

Queens was led by Devin Seaford's 13 points and J.B. Baldwin's 11 points. Preston Newlin hit three three-pointers in the first half for nine points, but crashed to the floor hard with 13 minutes left in the first half and did not return to the game.

AASU shot 38.2 percent from the floor in the contest, hitting 26-of-68 shots, while Queens hit just 16-of-55 shots from the floor for 29.1 percent.

The Pirates held a 49-39 rebounding edge and finished the night with 12 steals.The Pirates return to action on Friday, November 28, with a 6:00 p.m. contest against Lock Haven in the Charleston (W. Va.) Invitational.

AASU Volleyball wins Peach Belt tournament

Press release courtesy of Armstrong Atlantic State University Sports Information

PBC TOURNAMENT CHAMPS! Pirates Blank FMU, 3-0, For Title

PEMBROKE, N.C. - The Armstrong Atlantic State volleyball squad defeated Francis Marion, 3-0, on Sunday afternoon to capture the 2008 Peach Belt Conference Volleyball Tournament championship at the English E. Jones Center in Pembroke, N.C. Game scores were: 25-16, 25-20, 25-18.

Freshman Torrie Bevolo led the way for the Pirates (25-6) with a match-high 13 kills, 15 digs and four blocks, earning PBC Tournament MVP honors. Senior Rindy Vidovich, earlier in the weekend crowned the 2008 PBC Player of the Year, earned All-PBC Tournament honors as well as she collected 12 kills and 13 digs on the afternoon. Sophomore Gwen Clarke hit .385 with 10 kills and was AASU's third honoree on the All-Tournament team.

Sophomore Hannah Segebart tallied 43 assists and freshman libero Casey Howett notched a match-high 16 digs as well for AASU. Francis Marion was led by All-PBC Tournament honoree Amanda Mitchell, who notched nine kills, libero Kelsie Deaton's 15 digs and setter Jenna Kaiser's 23 assists.

The first set was a nip-and-tuck affair until junior Marina Marinova went back to serve at 13-13. Marinova ripped off 10 straight points on her service as the Pirates built a large lead and closed out the first set, 25-16. Set number two was also nip-and-tuck as FMU led 20-18 on a kill by Jenna Kaiser, but AASU ended the match with seven straight kills, five from Clarke, to take the set 25-20.

AASU closed out the match in set three behind Vidovich, who collected six kills, none more emphatic than the one she delivered on match point.

For the Pirates, it was just their second PBC Tournament title, but for head coach Will Condon, it was his third straight league tournament crown as he led USC Aiken to the 2006 and 2007 titles. Prior to this season, AASU's only tournament title came in the 2002 season.

AASU now will advance to the NCAA Southeast Regional as the automatic bid recipient from the PBC. It is the Pirates' first appearance in the NCAA Championships since 2004 and the sixth overall appearance in school history.

Fall Sports Update--November 14, 2008

The regular season is over. Postseason play has arrived for the fall sports in D-II South Nation. In fact, NCAA tournament action is already underway in both men's and women's soccer respectively, as well as conference tournament play in volleyball.

NCAA Division II Women's Soccer

The Peach Belt Conference is well represented in the Southeast Regional, as three teams, including No. 1 seed, have advanced to the big dance in D-II. Georgia College & State University makes its first-ever NCAA appearance, while UNC Pembroke also looks to make a big splash!

In the South bracket, the University of West Florida is the lone team from D-II South Nation to earn a berth in the NCAA tournament, as all of the other squads come from the Sunshine State Conference.

Women's Soccer Bracket

NCAA Division II Men's Soccer

It's been a rough postseason for D-II South Nation teams so far, as Montevallo was shut out by Tampa in the South Regional bracket, Francis Marion got by Carson-Newman in a thriller, and Lander's season ended in heartbreaking fashion.

Men's Soccer Bracket (Interactive)

Men's Soccer Bracket (Printable)

Volleyball

Gulf South Conference Tournament

Nationally ranked (#15 AVCA) West Florida is the favorite to win the GSC title.

Bracket

Tournament Home Page

Peach Belt Conference Tournament

After one of the most competitive regular seasons in recent memory, Armstrong Atlantic State (23-6, 8-2 PBC) has emerged as the top seed out of six teams heading into this weekend.

Tournament Home Page

SIAC Tournament

Albany State took its first step towards its eighth straight conference title, as the Lady Rams swept Paine in three games.

Updated Tournament Bracket

2008-09 BASKETBALL PREVIEW--Gulf South Conference Men

Our preseason basketball previews wrap up with the look at the men's squads in the Gulf South Conference.

EAST DIVISION

1. North Alabama

2. Valdosta State

3. West Georgia

4. Montevallo

5. Alabama-Huntsville

6. West Alabama

7. West Florida

WEST DIVISION

1. Christian Brothers

2. Ouachita Baptist

3. Harding

4. Delta State

5. Arkansas Tech

6. Arkansas-Monticello

7. Southern Arkansas

8. Henderson State

Analysis: With nine lettermen, including three starters, returning from last season's Elite Eight team, look for UNA (27-9 in 2007-08) to be the hunted in the GSC East once again this winter. In the West, Christian Brothers is expected to be in a dogfight with Harding and Ouachita Baptist for the division crown.

2008-09 BASKETBALL PREVIEW--Gulf South Conference Women

Another preseason basketball preview is on the way, as the women's teams in the Gulf South Conference are next to be profiled.

EAST DIVISION

1. West Georgia

2. Valdosta State

3. North Alabama

4. West Alabama

5. West Florida

6. Montevallo

7. Alabama-Huntsville

WEST DIVISION

1. Delta State

2. Arkansas Tech

3. Harding

4. Christian Brothers

5. Arkansas-Monticello

6. Henderson State

7. Southern Arkansas

8. Ouachita Baptist

Analysis: Despite losing four starters from a squad that finished 33-1 overall, and in the NCAA Division II Final Four last season, the Lady Statesmen were picked by the coaches to once again rule the roost in the GSC, although Arkansas Tech might give DSU a run for its money. In the East, the road to the title might go through Carrollton, Ga., as the West Georgia is the preseason favorite to win that division. But don't count out Valdosta State, whose Lady Blazers finished a solid 26-6--and advanced to the NCAA tournament to boot--in 2007-08.

2008-09 BASKETBALL PREVIEW--SIAC Men

The preseason basketball predictions continue with a look at the men's teams in the SIAC.

1. Benedict

2. Claflin

3. LeMoyne-Owen

4. Fort Valley State

5. Albany State

6. Clark Atlanta

7. Morehouse

8. Paine

9. Lane

10. Miles

11. Stillman

12. Tuskegee

13. Kentucky State

Analysis: After losing last season's South Regional final to North Alabama, the Benedict Tigers (28-5 in 2007-08) hope to take the next step, and advance to the NCAA Division II Elite Eight this season. But their biggest challenge to repeating as both SIAC regular season and tournament champions, respectively, might come a few miles down the road in Orangeburg, S.C. That's where the newcomer Claflin University Panthers are located, as they begin their first season in the SIAC. The Panthers, though, aren't the typical newcomers to a brand-new conference, as they finished 24-2 last season.

2008-09 BASKETBALL PREVIEW--SIAC Women

Our preseason previews continue with a look at the women's teams in the SIAC.

1. Fort Valley State

2. Tuskegee

3. Kentucky State

4. Claflin

5. Albany State

6. Miles

7. Paine

8. Lane

9. Clark Atlanta

10. LeMoyne-Owen

11. Benedict

12. Stillman

Analysis: Take any of these 12 teams, and draw them out of hat. The bottom line here is that any team in the SIAC can beat the other on any given night. And that certainly seems to be the case this season. While NCAA tournament participants Kentucky State and Tuskegee look to do battle for top honors in the regular season once again, don't count out Fort Valley State as a serious contender either. And don't be surprised if league newcomer Claflin (20-6) make things interesting between now and March.

2008-09 BASKETBALL PREVIEW--Peach Belt Conference Men

After a hiatus of a little over a week, the preseason thoughts on NCAA Division II basketball in the Southeast continue on D-II South Sports. This installment features what's likely to be a tight regular season men's race in the Peach Belt Conference.

1. USC Aiken

2. Augusta State

3. GC&SU

4. Clayton State

5. Armstrong Atlantic State

6. Francis Marion

7. Georgia Southwestern State

8. Columbus State

9. North Georgia

10. Lander

11. UNC Pembroke

Analysis: With four of five starters returning from last season NCAA Tournament, USC Aiken is the team to beat going into this season. But don't count out defending national runner-up Augusta State, as the Jaguars bring back field goal percentage leader Garrett Siler, as well as all-conference Ben Madgen. From there, it's anybody's guess as to who will finish third or lower in the PBC. That includes defending conference tourney champion Clayton State, whose Lakers overcame a sluggish regular season to earn the Peach Belt's autobid to the NCAA D-II dance, losing to ASU in the South Atlantic regional semifinals.

Rowland's shot lifts GCSU over Mercer

It was only an exhibition game, but a late basket helped the NCAA Division II Georgia College & State University men's basketball team knock off the NCAA Division I Mercer University Bears in Macon, Ga. Thursday.

Article courtesy of the Macon (Ga.) Telegraph

Barksdale steps down as Georgia Southwestern A.D.

After nearly three decades in intercollegiate athletics, Randolph Barksdale is stepping down. The former men's basketball head coach resigned as the athletics director at Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus, Ga. Thursday.

Article courtesy of the Albany (Ga.) Herald

2008-09 BASKETBALL PREVIEW--Peach Belt Conference Women

Welcome to the 2008-09 D-II South Sports preseason basketball previews. The road to "March Madness" starts here. Here are the preseason predictions for the women's teams in the Peach Belt Conference.

D-II South Sports Prediction--Peach Belt Conference Women

1. USC Aiken

2. Clayton State

3. Francis Marion

4. GC&SU

5. Columbus State

6. North Georgia

7. Lander

8. UNC Pembroke

9. Augusta State

10. Armstrong Atlantic State

11. Georgia Southwestern State

Analysis: After a season where five, yes, five teams shared the Peach Belt Conference regular season title, what does someone do for an encore? Well, how about another campaign filled with potential unpredictability. USC Aiken begins the season ranked No. 19 in the nation, while Clayton State starts at No. 21. The Lady Pacers, as well as Columbus State, get strong early season tests this weekend, as they open the 2008-09 campaign at the Disney Division II Tip Off Classic at Orlando, Fla.

Fall Sports Update--Soccer

Like the old saying goes, "it's late, but better late than never".

As the regular season winds down, and conference tournament play heats up, let's take a brief at how the postseason pairings are shaping up in soccer.

Gulf South Women: It's been a two-team race between West Florida (7-0 GSC) and Montevallo (6-0-1 GSC) all season long. It all comes down to one match on Friday, Oct. 31, between the Falcons and the Argonauts, who are currently ranked No. 2 in the most recent National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) poll.

Gulf South Men: The race for the GSC men's regular season title also has involved UWF and UM, as the Falcons will put their perfect 5-0 conference mark on the line against the Argonauts, who are ranked 18th in the NSCAA poll. Christian Brothers is 4-1 in GSC games, with one match remaining against Alabama-Huntsville (Oct. 29).

Peach Belt Women: The PBC is well represented in the national ranking, with Columbus State ranked fourth, UNC Pembroke ninth, and Georgia College & State University 21st. A win over either Georgia Southwestern State or GC&SU would all but wrap up the top seed for the upcoming PBC tournament.

Peach Belt Men: Francis Marion and Lander both carry identical 4-0-1 PBC records into Saturday's regular season finale, with the winner earning the top seed in next week's conference tournament. A third team, Clayton State, completed conference play unbeaten, at 3-0-3.

West Florida Volleyball upsets #2 Tampa

The University of West Florida volleyball team further established itself as one of the premier NCAA Division II programs in the nation with a three-set sweep over second ranked Tampa Saturday.

University of West Florida Sports Information

COMING SOON!!!!

THE 2008-09 BASKETBALL PREVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

AASU Soccer, Volleyball get weekend wins

Source: Armstrong Atlantic State University Sports Information

Pétursdóttir Puts In Overtime Winner In 2-1 Pirate Victory

MORROW, Ga. - Freshman Þórdís Pétursdóttir delivered the game-winner inovertime as the Armstrong Atlantic State women's soccer team won itsPeach Belt Conference opener, 2-1, over host Clayton State on Saturdayevening in Morrow, Ga.

The Pirates (4-2-1, 1-0 PBC) - playing an 11-on-9 advantage after Clayton State had its second player sent off with a red card in the closing moments of the first overtime period - finally broke through inthe 104th minute as junior Kristin Burton's cross found the foot of Pétursdóttir, who beat Laker goalkeeper Whitney Jowers for the winner.

Burton opened the scoring in the match in the 29th minute as sheconverted a penalty kick to put the Pirates up, 1-0. Clayton State (0-7,0-1 PBC) equalized in the 59th minute as Caitlin Clark drilled a shotfrom 35 yards out to tie things up at 1-1. The score would remaindeadlocked at 1-all at the end of regulation, despite the Pirates holding a 22-5 edge in shots.

AASU held the Lakers without a shot in the overtimes, while registering six in the first overtime and two in the second. The Pirates also enjoyed a 10-3 advantage in corner kicks.

Pirate goalkeeper Tracey Mitchell played the entire match in net forAASU, giving up the lone goal and facing just five shots. Laker starting goalkeeper Chelsea Bettis played 62 minutes, making seven saves and giving up one goal. Jowers played 42 minutes and made two saves.

Burton finished the night with nine shots, four on goal, including thepenalty kick that was her PBC-leading sixth goal of the season. Eleven different Pirates notched shots on the night and the win was the first for AASU on the road this season in four matches.

AASU returns to action on Wednesday, Sept. 24, as the Pirates host No.8-ranked UNC Pembroke at 5:00 p.m. at AT&T Field.

--

Pirates Down Fort Valley State, 3-1, In Volleyball

SAVANNAH, Ga. - The Armstrong Atlantic State volleyball squad won itsthird straight match with a 3-1 win over visiting Fort Valley State onSaturday afternoon in Savannah. Game scores were: 25-11, 25-15, 20-25, 25-17.

The Pirates (10-4) jumped out to a quick lead after the first two gamesby hitting .486 against the Wildcats (6-6), but Fort Valley State rebounded to take game three with a 15-kill, .313 percentage performance. AASU closed out the match in a tight fourth game, thanks in large part to Wildcat service errors - Fort Valley State had 16 serviceerrors in the match and five in the fourth game alone.

Junior Michele Remlinger hit .421 with 10 kills to lead the Pirates offensively, while freshman Casie Richards added 10 kills and threeblocks. Junior setter Hannah Segebart tallied 28 assists and freshman Casey Howett notched 11 digs.Fort Valley State was led by Raven WynnRynn's match-high 14 kills, while Sheriann Norris added 24 assists, seven kills and seven digs.

The Pirates collected 11 service aces in the match and both teamsrecorded six team blocks.AASU returns to action on Tuesday, September 23, with a 7:00 p.m. match against in-state rival West Georgia in Carrollton, Ga.

GSW soccer fighting growing pains

Here it is, the 500th post at D-II South Sports! The Georgia Southwestern State University soccer programs are struggling to adjust to the competition in the Peach Belt Conference, as both the Hurricanes and Lady Hurricanes begin their first full year of membership at the NCAA Division II level.

Article courtesy of the Albany (Ga.) Herald.

2008 Fall Sports Preview--SIAC Volleyball

Our 2008 fall sports preview wraps up with a preview of SIAC volleyball.

Article: Volleyball Preseason All Conference Team Announced (courtesy of the SIAC)

Analysis: The Albany State University Lady Rams will look to win the SIAC championship for the eighth straight year, as well as another such appearance in the NCAA tournament. Preseason all-conference first teamer Rachel Anderson hopes to lead her team to yet one more postseason trip.
In the West, Kendra Joseph and Ramona Douglas hope to lead Kentucky State to the top.

Lady Cougars Post Shutout in Season Opener at Barry

Source: Columbus State University Sports Information

Miami Shores, FL - Columbus State scratched out two first-half goals and then rode its customary strong defense the rest of the way Friday in a season-opening 2-0 win over Barry University. CSU, ranked #5 in the NFCA Division II preseason poll, will conclude its Florida road trip with a game at Rollins College on Sunday.

Host Barry controlled possession early in the contest, but CSU mounted a run in the ninth minute and a crossing pass from Kellie Myles found the head of Jill Walthall in the box and the sophomore poked the shot past Buccaneer keeper Sami Cromartie for a 1-0 lead.

The Lady Cougars got a second goal in the 16th minute when Cromartie could not control a ball in the box. Stephanie Parris was there to collect the loose ball and booted into the empty net for a 2-0 lead. That score would stand the rest of the way as CSU relied on its defense to post the shutout.

The best scoring opportunity for Barry came in the 18th minute as Michelle Tarasiuk slipped a shot past Monica Sanchez, but defender Sarah Hawkins was on the spot to sweep the shot away near the goal for an empty net save. Sanchez played the first half in goal and posted two saves, while Kelly Nimmo took over in the second half and collected four saves to preserve the shutout win.

"It was not that pretty, but a win is good any way you get it," said CSU coach Jay Entlich. "It hurt us to not have had a preseason scrimmage to get game experience. It was sort of like a football team practicing in shorts and then putting on the pads to play a game - that first hit gives you a jolt. We were fortunate enough to get a couple of goals and come away with a win."

CSU committed 15 fouls in the game, including one yellow card issued to Hawkins in the 74th minute. Barry had eight fouls and picked up two yellow cards in the first half. CSU led in corner kicks by a 6-5 count.

CSU (1-0) returns to action on Sunday as they stop over in Winter Park, FL, to face Rollins College at noon.

2008 Fall Sports Preview--Peach Belt Conference

Our 2008 fall sports previews continues with the outlook on the Peach Belt Conference. So, what are waiting for? Let's get started!

Volleyball: Despite a second place finish (6-4 in 2007) in PBC play last year, Lander was selected to finish first out of six teams in this year's regular season race. Armstrong Atlantic State and two-time defending regular season and tournament champion USC Aiken also figure to find themselves in the mix for the top spot in PBC volleyball in 2008.

BONUS COVERAGE: PBC Preseason All-Conference Team 2008

Women's Soccer: Columbus State (20-3-2 overall in 2007) is coming off the best season in the program's four-year history, reaching the quarterfinals of the NCAA Division II tournament, and bring back seven starters that look to go even further this season. Armstrong Atlantic State (14-5-1) looks to be a strong challenger to the Lady Cougars supremacy, as the Lady Pirates lose only three starters from the squad that has finished in the PBC standings two years in a row.

BONUS COVERAGE: PBC Preseason All-Conference Team 2008

Men's Soccer: If the vote in the preseason coaches poll is any indication, expect a tight two-way for first place between Clayton State and Lander, as both teams were separated by only one vote. The Lakers lose 10 starters from last year's team, while the Bearcats bring back all league players Aaron Brittain and Jamie Ramm for 2008. Oh, and Lander begins the season ranked 18th nationally.

BONUS COVERAGE: PBC Preseason All-Conference Team 2008

2008 Fall Sports Preview--Gulf South Conference

D-II South Sports begins its look at the 2008 fall sports season with an inside look at the volleyball, men's and women's soccer programs in the Gulf South Conference.

Volleyball: For the first time in least the last 12 years, the University of North Alabama isn't a favorite to win the GSC title. Instead, that nod goes to the University of West Florida, whose Argonauts are coming off a successful 26-4 campaign, and was picked to win the East Division in 2008. In the West, Harding is team to beat, as the Lady Bisons hope to win their seventh straight division crown.

Women's Soccer: The UWF women's soccer team is also a favorite to finish on top in the GSC, as the Argonauts return three starters from last year's squad. But defending league champion Montevallo returns eight starters from a year ago, which will make for a very tight race.

Men's Soccer: The preseason pick to win the regular season title in this sport is, you guessed it, the University of West Florida! The Argonauts hope to win their third straight GSC title. But just like on the women's side, the University of Montevallo Falcons expect to give the Argos all they can handle.

UWF volleyball ranked 23rd in AVCA poll

Entering its ninth season of play, the University of West Florida volleyball program begins the 2008 season nationally ranked at No. 23 in the CBS College Sports/American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) NCAA Division II preseason poll.

Click here for the complete rankings (Gulf South Conference via the AVCA).

CSU signs eight

Summer might be winding down, but Columbus State University's recruiting season is wrapping up, as the Cougars signed eight men's basketball players this week.

Article courtesy of Columbus (Ga.) Ledger-Enquirer

Georgia Southwestern gains full D-II membership

From provisional status to full members.

That was the good news the Georgia Southwestern State University athletics department received recently, as all Hurricane and Lady Hurricane sports received full eligibility for NCAA Division II membership. That means GSW will be eligible for any and all automatic bids to NCAA postseason play.

Article courtesy of Peach Belt Conference

Georgia College Basketball Across The Pond

Source: Georgia College & State University Sports Information

For immediate release
June 25, 2008
Contact: Al Weston
gcsu.sid@gcsu.edu
478-445-1779
www.gcsu.edu/bobcats

Georgia College Basketball Across the Pond
GCSU Hall of Famer Julius Joseph has parlayed Bobcat success into a strong professional career in Europe

MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. – His British accent isn’t the only thing that made Julius Joseph stand out during his three years playing basketball at Georgia College & State University from 1997-2000. The 2008 inductee to the GCSU Athletic Hall of Fame was the first All-American of the NCAA era of Georgia College men’s basketball, reaching Division II Bulletin Honorable Mention All-American status in 2000, a feat only achieved once in the years since by a Bobcat cager.

Joseph was the best player on arguably the best team in program history during that 1999-2000 season, a year when playing as an undersized 6-foot-4 center, he led a balanced Georgia College attack with 14.3 points and 6.4 rebounds per contest. The Bobcats made it to the NCAA Division II Elite Eight, buzzing through the competition with a 25-6 record, tying for the most wins in school history.

“That Elite Eight team was one of the best teams I’ve ever been a part of,” said Joseph. “It seemed that during that season, each guy on the roster helped us win games. If one guy didn’t have it for whatever reason that night, another would step up and get it done.”

With a knack for getting to the line, a sign of a great player, Joseph set the school records in both free-throws made (151) and attempted (202) that season. He’s 10th in GCSU career records with 445 rebounds, second with 305 free-throws made and ninth in free-throw percentage (.753). His 60 double-digit scoring games ranks sixth in school history, and he once scored double-digits in 34 straight games.

“What made Julius so special is his status as a complete player,” said Georgia College head coach Terry Sellers. “He excelled in offense, defense and had all of the intangibles. On top of that, he had the most amazing work ethic. I’ve never coached a player with a stronger desire to improve.”

Add in another All-PBC performer in Earl Grant with 3.8 assists per game and 13.3 points per contest, as well as Mike Jones at 12.0 points and John John Steensland at 11.7 points, and one can see how this was one of the best teams in league history.

The Bobcats were regular-season champs that season, thanks to a 13-3 PBC record. USC Spartansburg ended the team’s run at the conference tournament title with a 72-69 tally. This left the Bobcats with something to prove going into the NCAA South Atlantic Regional Tournament. An 11-point win over Gardner-Webb started the tourney, and Georgia College kept it going with wins over Winston Salem State 72-68 and downed Columbus State 68-62 for the region title. Both Gardner-Webb and Winston Salem State are now Division I programs.

The amazing run came to a close at the hands of Seattle Pacific 77-65, but it couldn’t dampen the excitement of a great season.

Joseph’s Post-Georgia College Success
Next to perhaps baseball’s Milt Hill, who spent seasons in Major League Baseball with the Cincinnati Reds, Joseph has had the most successful professional sports career of any Georgia College alumnus.

Joseph started with the Manchester Giants in the English League for one season, moving to Bree in the Belgium League for the next three years. After one season with Naterre in France , Joseph returned to his native England to play with the Scottish Rox of the English League.

He joined the Rox so he could represent the English National Team in the Commonwealth Games, helping his countrymen to a bronze medal in 2006. All told, Joseph has been on the English National squad for 60 games, ranking in the top-20 in the English team’s history.

While with the Rox, Joseph helped the team to an English League finalist spot in 2007 and 2006, including a spot in the final game of the English League Cup in 2007. His stellar 2006 season landed him a spot on the All-English League Team.

With all of his basketball honors, he says the GCSU Athletic Hall of Fame sticks out.

“I was overwhelmed, the magnitude and rarity of the award is extremely important to me. That honor shows how much the school and people at Georgia College appreciated my efforts and the efforts of the special teams I played on.”

From London to Milledgeville Through Hard Work
Sellers ran across Joseph while working as a guest clinician at a basketball camp in Europe . Current UNC Pembroke women’s head coach John Haskins offered Sellers a role in this camp, and he jumped at the chance.

“It was a high-profile camp,” said Sellers, “a great opportunity to work with some solid players and learn from other coaches. Julius was there for two years, and was a solid player.”

Sellers admits that by no means did he look at Joseph then as a player who was going to lead his Bobcats to a region title.

“It was a great opportunity at an education and I couldn’t pass it up,” said Joseph. “Coach Sellers taught me about hard work and overcoming obstacles to get what you want.”

Joseph started out near the end of the bench in his first season, starting just eight of his 28 games and averaging 4.3 points, 2.4 rebounds per contest for his sophomore campaign. In his junior season, he jumped to 17.0 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, leading the Bobcats to both the regular season and PBC Tournament titles.

“Julius’ improvement from his sophomore to junior season was like none other I’ve seen in my history as a coach,” said Sellers, the now 24-year head coaching veteran. “He just refused to be anything but great.”

“I had a scholarship to play basketball,” said Joseph. “I felt I needed to earn that right to an education. I never wanted to take it for granted.”

Joseph parlays that into great words of advice for every youngster he runs across considering playing basketball at the collegiate level in the United States .

“I tell them to jump at the chance. I’ve learned that things don’t always fall in your lap, and the harder you work the more opportunities will arise. It’s an opportunity for a good education, and a great experience learning the game of basketball. I’m always looking for players to recommend to Coach Sellers.”

Joseph’s successes still surprise his old skipper.

“With his work ethic and the unbelievable improvement he achieved here, I shouldn’t be surprised of his success in the professional leagues in Europe , but I still am. He was not a great athlete. He wasn’t the fastest, or the strongest and didn’t jump the highest. His heart and work ethic more than made up for any deficiencies as well as his sheer will to improve.”

“He was what every coach looks for in a student-athlete. He never took anything for granted, and was just so solid both on the court and off. He was a young man that was just a joy to coach.”

The GCSU Department of Athletics sponsors 10 NCAA Division II athletic programs over three seasons. As a Division II program, GCSU prides itself on balancing the life of the student-athlete, evidenced by the Bobcats’ multiple appearances in post-season competition as well as documented academic success and community-service involvement. Follow the Bobcats and their positive impact on the Milledgeville community at www.gcsu.edu/bobcats.
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UM PRESIDENT: PBC BETTER FIT THAN GSC

There's more to the University of Montevallo's decision last week to apply for potential membership in the Peach Conference than meets the eye. That's according to the Birmingham (Ala.) News.

MORE

Analysis: As mentioned in a previous post, Montevallo's decision to apply for membership in the PBC really comes as no surprise, given the fact that UM is one of just four current GSC schools without football (the others being Alabama-Huntsville, Christian Brothers, and West Florida; see corrected blog entry below). Don't be surprised if one of the other remaining non-football schools decide to follow suit, and try to join Montevallo in the PBC.

MONTEVALLO APPLIES FOR PBC MEMBERSHIP

Goodbye, Gulf South Conference! Hello, Peach Belt Conference? Well, maybe! The University of Montevallo (Ala.) hopes to make the upcoming 2008-09 academic year their last in the GSC.
If approved, the move to the PBC becomes effective in the fall of 2009.

Article courtesy of University of Montevallo Sports Information

Analysis: The move to the PBC from the GSC probably should come as no surprise for UM, as it's one of the few schools in the latter conference without a football program. While it joins the likes of Columbus State, Georgia College & State University, Augusta State, and other schools in the PBC, the biggest drawback could be that Montevallo would become the first, and only, PBC member school in the Central Time Zone, as well as the state of Alabama.

(Blog entry corrected/updated July 2, 2008)