Monday, January 31, 2005

D-II SOUTH SPORTS BASEBALL PREVIEW--SOUTHERN INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETIC CONFERENCE

We wrap our preseason baseball preview with a brief rundown on the SIAC.

EAST DIVISION

1. Albany State
2. Paine
3. Morehouse
4. Benedict
5. Clark-Atlanta


WEST DIVISION

1. Miles
2. Tuskegee
3. Kentucky State
4. LeMoyne-Owen
5. Lane

NOTE: Predicted order of finish courtesy of blackcollegebaseball.com.


D-II SOUTH SPORTS BASEBALL PREVIEW--PEACH BELT CONFERENCE

NOTE: The second installment of our 2005 preseason baseball previews continue with the Peach Belt Conference. Order of finish and other information is courtesty of the Peach Belt Conference.

1. North Florida--With their eventual move to the NCAA Division I level in 2006, the Ospreys (41-18, 23-7) hope to go out of the Peach Belt Conference and NCAA Division II with a bang, by winning their sixth league title in seven years. Head Coach Dusty Rhodes welcomes back 29 letterwinners, nine seniors, and six position starters for 2005. However, UNF will miss its top two starting pitchers in Billy Layman and T.J. Stanton.

2. Kennesaw State--The Owls will begin their final PBC season looking to rebound from a mediocre 32-24 season a year ago, which included a 15-15 mark in conference action. KSU brings back six of eight position players, including catcher/first baseman Kevin Gergel, who drove in 43 runs with a slugging percentage of .511.

3. Columbus State--The Cougars reached the NCAA Division II World Series for the second time in four years last season, and Head Coach Greg Appleton hopes to lead them back to Montgomery, Ala. this season with seven position players returning including the entire starting infield. Brian Baker returns for his senior season leading the way on the mound.

4. Augusta State--The Jaguars finished the 2004 season 38-18, which resulted in their first appearance in the NCAA tournament since 1978. If Augusta hopes to make to back-to-back postseason trips in 2005, PBC Freshman of the Year Cody Williams must avoid a sophomore jinx, and provide leadership on a pitching staff that welcomes back six of its top nine pitchers. ASU, though, does return all eight position players, including catcher Sam Barth and Bennett Mayfield.

5. Georgia College & State University--GC&SU finished last season with a mark of 32-22, but a sub .500 finish in PBC play (13-14) forced the Bobcats to sit out the NCAA tournament for the second straight season. If the Bobcats hope to return to postseason play for the first time since 2002, they must do it with a new head coach in Chris Calciano, who comes to the GC&SU campus from West Chester University in Pennsylvania. Matt Goyen, Brandon Durden, and Travis Spell return to lead the pitching staff for GC&SU, while Mike DeVeaux, Nick Trainor, and John Caruso look to provide some offensive punch for the Hunter Green and Navy Blue.

6. Lander--The Bearcats tied a school record for wins in 2004 by finishing 33-23. But, in 2005, Lander hopes to not only add more wins to their total, but also position themselves for a trip to the NCAA tournament. Left handed pitcher David Wilson and third baseman David Walton return to help the Bearcat baseball program reach the next level in what many observers consider to be the nation's toughest NCAA Division II conference in the PBC.

7. Armstrong Atlantic State--Despite a 9-1 start, and a ranking as high as third in the nation, the Pirates struggled to a 29-27 overall, and a disappointing 10-20 record in PBC play to close out 2004. Head Coach Joe Roberts must replace seven seniors including Tampa Bay Devil Rays draftee Marcus Barriger. But AASU does bring back seven players, including shortstop Adam Pelley, and second baseman Rob Recuenco.

8. USC Aiken--The Pacers (30-26, 12-18) welcome 2005 with several new assistants for sixth year head coach Kenny Thomas. USCA loses All-American Ashley Farr and pro draftee Bradley Key. But Thomas will welcome back 17 letterwinners to help Pacers move up in the PBC standings this spring.

9. Francis Marion--The Patriots return 10 lettermen from a squad that finished last year 29-17 overall, but fell just one game shy of reaching the .500 mark in the Peach Belt Conference at 13-14.

10. USC Upstate--With several pitchers having departed the team, and lots of new faces, the Spartans could have an uphill battle attempting to improve upon last year's 24-28 overall, and 11-19 conference record.

11. UNC Pembroke--The Braves (25-27, 12-18) lose seven seniors from last year's team, but bring in a lot of new players this season.

Information:

  • Peach Belt Conference


  • Sunday, January 30, 2005

    MUST SEE GAMES--01/31/2005

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME:

    Southern Arkansas (13-6, 4-4) at Ouachita Baptist (11-8, 3-5)--Monday 6:00 p.m. CST

    The Riderettes take on the Tigers in a key Gulf South Conference West Division game in Arkadelphia, Ark. SAU reached the .500 mark in conference play after defeating Christian Brothers 63-41 on Saturday, while OBU lost to Arkansas-Monticello in double overtime 86-79.

    Audio:

  • Southern Arkansas

  • Ouachita Baptist


  • TOP MEN'S GAME:

    Central Arkansas (14-5, 4-4) at Christian Brothers (11-8, 3-5)--Monday 7:30 p.m. CST

    The Bears battle the Bucs (no, this is not an NFL game) in a battle to stay in a contention for a spot in the Gulf South Conference tournament. This is a must-win game for both teams, especially for CBU, which enters the contest having lost four games in a row.

    Audio:

  • Central Arkansas


  • Live Stats:

  • Christian Brothers





  • SEVERE WEATHER UPDATE--01/30/2005

    The icy weather conditions that have plagued portions of Georgia and the Carolinas have caused selected Peach Belt Conference basketball games to be postponed and rescheduled. Here's the situation thus far:

    *--The USC Aiken-Clayton State doubleheader will be played Monday, Jan. 31st, with the women's game starting at 4 p.m. EST, while the men's game follows at 6 p.m.

    *--The USC Upstate-Georgia College & State University games originally scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 29 will instead be played on Monday, Feb. 14.

    Stay connected to D-II South Sports for any further updates as they become available.

    BRIEFLY:

    *--Augusta State and Columbus State split a Sunday afternoon Peach Belt Conference doubleheader that was postponed because of the icy weather. The Cougars downed the Jaguars in the men's game 82-72, while the Lady Cougars lost their second straight game after reeling off six wins in a row, as ASU edged CSU 62-61.

    *--Elsewhere in the PBC Saturday, Armstrong Atlantic State swept a pair of games from UNC Pembroke, with the Pirates crushing the Braves 95-68, while the AASU women cruised past UNCP 72-52. Kennesaw State earned a split at Francis Marion, with the Owls edging the Patriots in the men's game, 67-65, in overtime, while the Patriots downed the Lady Owls 66-60 in the women's game. Finally, the North Florida women saw their two-game winning streak end at the hands of Lander, 58-51. However, the Ospreys salvaged the split in the men's contest, as they routed the Bearcats 60-39.

    *--Valdosta State split a pair of Gulf South Conference games at West Florida Saturday. In the men's game, the Blazers (15-3, 6-1) held off a late Argonuats rally to 64-57 on the campus of Pensacola Junior College. However, the outcome wasn't as good for the 22nd ranked Lady Blazers, as UWF snapped VSU's 11 game winning streak with a 68-56 upset win. Valdosta State now stands at 16-3 overall, 6-1 in conference play.



    Saturday, January 29, 2005

    D-II SOUTH SPORTS BASEBALL PREVIEW--GULF SOUTH CONFERENCE

    NOTE: This is the first of a three part series previewing the 2005 baseball season on D-II South Sports. We start with the Gulf South Conference.

    EAST DIVISION:

    1. West Florida: After edging out Alabama-Huntsville by half a game to win the GSC East, and finishing fifth in the South Central Region, the league's coaches have picked to win the division again in 2005. However, UWF (29-21 in 2004) hopes to take the next step, and earn its first-ever trip to the NCAA tournament. Outfielder Peter Antoske returns for his sophomore season, while juniors Todd Androsko and Bryan Lee will provide some much needed leadership for the pitching staff.

    2. Alabama-Huntsville: The Chargers will look to improve upon last year's 36-17 record, and #24 national ranking, while challenging UWF along the way. However, UAH must accomplish that task with a new head coach in Lowell Mooneyham, who was an assistant with the Chargers for several years.

    3. Valdosta State: The Blazers will begin their 38th season under veteran Tommy Thomas in hopes of improving upon last year's 33-26 record. VSU returns senior outfielder John McDonald, and senior shortstop Robert Morgan to lead the Blazer offensive attack.

    4. North Alabama: Despite a 34-20-1 overall record last season, the Lions finished a disappointing 8-11 overall in GSC East play. UNA hopes to have a better outcome in conference play this season thanks to the return of infielders Mike Klug and Job Fugice.

    5. West Alabama: The Tigers had one of their best seasons in recent history last year, going 33-22 overall, and advancing to the Gulf South Conference tournament. Lee Boyd and Clint Chambless must provide the needed relief on the pitching staff if they hope to make a return trip to the GSC tourney.

    6. West Georgia: The Braves (33-16 overall) hope to contend for a spot in the Gulf South Conference tournament after finishing conference play 9-11 in 2004. Senior Jared Rolen will provide leadership both offensively and defensively for West Georgia at catcher.

    7. Montevallo: The Falcons (26-27) struggled to a 6-15 mark in GSC East play last season, and may end up fighting an uphill battle again this season.

    8. Lincoln Memorial: The Railsplitters finished a dismal 2004 season at 17-36-1. Expect LMU to look up at the rest of the GSC East again in 2005.

    WEST DIVISION:

    1. Delta State: It was a season to remember for the DSU baseball program in 2004, as the Statesmen won their first-ever NCAA Division II national championship. Can Delta State (54-11 overall) repeat as national champions in 2005? The pollsters at Collegiate Baseball Newspaper seem to think, as the Statesmen begin as tops in D-II. DSU returns some top-notch talent for this year, with Craig Newton coming back at catcher, Clay Smith at second base, and Eric Patten at shortstop.

    2. Southern Arkansas: The Muleriders look to be Delta State's prime challenger in the Gulf South Conference West Division this season, as they finished last season 45-14, and 10th in the nation. SAU's hopes for another trip to an NCAA regional will be dependent upon the performance of outfielder Aharon Eggleston.

    3. Central Arkansas: The Bears finished the 2004 season 33-24 overall, and 16-7 in the GSC West, good for a third place finish in the GSC West, as well as a trip to the Gulf South Conference tournament. Second baseman Barrett Ward, shortstop Chris Dickens, and outfielder Brian Post all hope to lead UCA to an NCAA postseason trip in 2005 if they can stay healthy and focused.

    4. Arkansas Tech: The Wonder Boys hope to improve upon last year's 31-23 overall and 13-10 GSC West record from a year ago by relying on first baseman Ryan White to do wonders with both his bat and his glove.

    5. Harding: The Bisons went 25-22 last season, just missing the GSC tournament with an 11-12 conference mark. First baseman Justin Cone looks to lead HU into postseason play this season.

    6. Arkansas-Monticello: After barely finished last season above .500 overall (26-24), and 6-15 in GSC play, there's only one way the Boll Weevils can go: Up. At least UAM moved up in the preseason standings to begin 2005, as the league's coaches picked the Boll Weevils to finish sixth. Josh McClain hopes to prove the prognosticators wrong, as he returns for his senior year as a starting pitcher.

    7. Henderson State: The Reddies hope for a better ending in 2005 than in 2004, as they struggled to an 18-32 overall record. Catcher Dustin Perry, along with newcomers Josh Guy, Josh Jarman, and Thomas Bischoff hope to turn Henderson State's fortunes on the field in the right direction this season, and contend for a spot in the GSC tournament.

    8. Christian Brothers: The Buccaneers lost eight straight games to end last season, resulting in a final mark of 22-27 overall. CBU will rely on junior college transfer Blake Christian, as well as freshmen Mark Foster and Graham Harrison to move up in the standings this year.

    9. Ouachita Baptist: The Tigers were anything but tough in 2004, as they managed to finish dead last in the GSC West at 2-21, and 12-36 overall. Tyler Landenberger comes to OBU from Colby Community College to pitch, while outfielder Mike Fehr and infielder Jon Andres will lead the offense. However, that may not be enough to pull the Tigers out of the division basement in 2005.

    Information:

  • Gulf South Conference



  • MUST SEE GAMES--01/30/2005

    NOTE: The following is a special Sunday edition of "MUST SEE GAMES", weather permitting. Keep checking back for periodic updates throughout the remainder of the weekend for any schedule changes. In the meantime, here goes!

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME:

    USC Aiken (14-6, 4-2) at Clayton State (13-5, 5-2)--Sunday 2 p.m. EST

    The Lady Pacers face the Lakers in a battle of pleasant surprises in the Peach Belt Conference. This contest was supposed to have been played the day before, but icy and snowy weather in the metro Atlanta area forced postponement. Still, this should be one of the best games of the season thus far. The 14 games won by the USCA women match last year's win total (14-14 in 2003-04).

    Audio:

  • USC Aiken


  • TOP MEN'S GAME:

    Augusta State (10-8, 3-4) at Columbus State (12-5, 5-2)--Sunday 4 p.m. EST

    The Jaguars visit the Cougars in another Peach Belt Conference contest that was postponed because of wintry weather conditions. On Wednesday, the CSU men came from behind in the second half to defeat North Florida on the road 88-79, while ASU lost to Lander 68-61.

    Audio:

  • Columbus State






  • BREAKING NEWS--01/29/2005

    Wintry conditions throughout the Southeast have caused the postponement or cancellation of nearly all basketball doubleheaders involving Peach Belt Conference schools. For more information, visit the Peach Belt Conference website at http://www.peachbelt.com.

    Friday, January 28, 2005

    MUST SEE GAMES--01/29/2005

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME:

    Valdosta State (16-2, 6-0) at West Florida (12-7, 4-2)--Saturday 2 p.m. CST

    The top two women's teams in the Gulf South Conference East Division square off in Pensacola, Fla. this weekend. The Lady Blazers, who are the top ranked team in this week's NCAA Division II South Region poll, will look to extend their winning streak to 12 straight games, while the Argonuats hope to bounce back from a heartbreaking 64-61 loss at West Alabama Monday night.

    Audio:

  • Valdosta State


  • West Florida


  • TOP MEN'S GAME:

    Ouachita Baptist (13-5, 5-2) at Arkansas-Monticello (14-3, 6-1)--Saturday 4:00 p.m. CST

    The Boll Weevils battle the Tigers in a clash of top teams in the Gulf South Conference West Division. UAM extended its winning streak to seven straight games with a 66-46 win over Christian Brothers Thursday night, while Delta State stunned OBU 67-65. The Tigers loss to the Statesmen allowed the Boll Weevils to take over sole possession of first place in the GSC West.

    Audio:

  • Ouachita Baptist


  • Arkansas-Monticello





  • Wednesday, January 26, 2005

    MUST SEE GAMES--01/27/2005

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME:

    Southern Arkansas (12-5, 3-3) at Central Arkansas (12-6, 6-1)--Thursday 6:00 p.m. CST

    The Sugar Bears host the Riderettes in a battle of arch-rivals in the Gulf South Conference West Division. UCA won its third straight game with a 78-73 victory over Arkansas-Monticello Monday, while SAU moved into a tie for fourth place in the division with Ouachita Baptist after routing Arkansas-Monticello on Jan. 20.

    Audio:

  • Southern Arkansas


  • Central Arkansas


  • TOP MEN'S GAME:

    Ouachita Baptist (13-4, 5-1) at Delta State (10-6, 4-2)--Thursday 8:00 p.m. CST

    The Tigers will travel to Cleveland, Miss. to take on the Statesmen in a crucial Gulf South Conference West Division clash. Both teams will put three-game winning streaks on the line in hopes of gaining some position for the Gulf South Conference tournament.

    Audio:

  • Ouachita Baptist


  • Delta State

  • Tuesday, January 25, 2005

    MUST SEE GAMES--01/26/2005

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME:

    Clayton State (12-5, 4-2) at Armstrong Atlantic State (14-6, 4-2)--Wednesday 5:30 p.m. EST

    Both teams enter this critical Peach Belt Conference match-up in opposite directions, as the Lady Pirates won back-to-back games over Kennesaw State and Lander by a combined 11 points last week, while the Lakers lost games at Columbus State and UNC Pembroke during that same span. AASU will look to avenge a 77-63 loss at Clayton State on Jan. 12, as the winner of this game takes over sole possesion of second place in the PBC South Division. Columbus State (13-4) remains unbeaten in PBC play at 6-0.

    Audio:

  • Armstrong Atlantic State


  • TOP MEN'S GAME:

    Clayton State (11-9, 4-2) at Armstrong Atlantic State (11-6, 3-3)--Wednesday 7:30 p.m. EST

    The Lakers face the Pirates for the second time in two weeks this Wednesday. The Clayton State men defeated AASU 56-44 in their last meeting Jan. 12. CCSU downed UNC Pembroke 82-64 last Saturday, while Columbus State lost at conference leader USC Upstate 90-73. That situation allowed the Lakers to pull into a first place tie with the Cougars in the Peach Belt Conference South Division, although CSU edged Clayton State 78-76 last Wednesday.

    Audio:

  • Armstrong Atlantic State







  • Sunday, January 23, 2005

    MUST SEE GAMES--01/24/2005

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME:

    Central Arkansas (11-6, 5-1) at Arkansas-Monticello (9-6, 4-1)--Monday 6 p.m. CST

    The Sugar Bears hit the road to take on the Cotton Blossoms in a key Gulf South Conference West Division contest Monday night. UCA pulled into a first place tie in the GSC West with a 67-60 win at struggling Delta State Thursday night, while UAM suffered its first GSC loss after being routed at Southern Arkansas 84-62.

  • Central Arkansas


  • Arkansas-Monticello


  • TOP MEN'S GAME:

    Montevallo (14-4, 4-1) at Valdosta State (14-3, 4-1)--Monday 8 p.m. EST

    The Falcons fly down to Valdosta, Ga. to face the Blazers for a Monday night showdown that is critical in more ways than one. Not only are both teams tied with nationally-ranked West Georgia (#7 in the most recent NABC/Division II Bulletin poll) for first place in the Gulf South Conference East Division, they also are on the "bubble" as far as postseason play is concerned, as UM currently sits at #6 in the latest NCAA Division II South region rankings, while VSU is seventh. Head Coach Jim Yarbrough and his charges will look to snap a two-game losing streak against Montevallo, who upset the Blazers twice during the postseason: once during the Gulf South Conference tournament, and again in the first round of last year's NCAA South Regional, with the latter loss ending VSU's season. And by the way, Montevallo eventually won the Gulf South Conference title along the way.

    Audio:

  • Montevallo


  • Valdosta State

  • Friday, January 21, 2005

    MUST SEE GAMES--01/22/2005

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME:

    Columbus State (12-4, 5-0) at USC Upstate (10-6, 3-2)

    Fresh off an 88-73 win over upstart Clayton State, the Lady Cougars pay a Saturday afternoon visit to Spartanburg, S.C. in hopes of extending their winning streak to six straight games. The Spartans look to keep at least a share of first place in the Peach Belt Conference North Division with a victory.

    Audio:

  • Columbus State


  • BONUS COVERAGE:

    West Florida at Montevallo

    Both teams enter Saturday night's Gulf South Conference East Division match-up with identical 11-6 overall, and 3-1 conference records, respectively. The winner of this game will have no worse than a share of second place in the GSC East by the end of the night, or even pull into a tie for first place, depending upon the outcome of the Valdosta State-West Alabama game the same day. The Lady Blazers hope to make it 10 wins in a row against the Lady Tigers.

    Audio:

  • West Florida


  • Montevallo


  • TOP MEN'S GAME:

    Columbus State (11-4, 4-1) at USC Upstate (13-3, 5-0)

    Both the Cougars and Spartans have been hot lately, with CSU winning four straight games, while USCU has reeled off six straight victories. Unfortunately, something has to give come Saturday afternoon, as both division leaders square off in a big Peach Belt Conference battle.

    Audio:

  • Columbus State


  • USC Upstate




  • Thursday, January 20, 2005

    MUST SEE GAMES--01/20/2005

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME:

    It's "Take your pick Thursday" in the Gulf South Conference West Division, as several games will further shape the race there:

    Arkansas-Monticello (9-5, 4-0) at Southern Arkansas (11-5, 2-3)

    Central Arkansas (10-6, 4-1) at Delta State (7-7, 0-4)

    Christian Brothers (9-4, 1-3) at Harding (9-7, 2-2)

    Ouachita Baptist (10-5, 2-2) at Henderson State (12-6, 4-1)

    TOP MEN'S GAME:

    See above and below:

    Arkansas-Monticello (11-3, 3-1) at Southern Arkansas (4-12, 0-5)

    Central Arkansas (13-3, 3-2) at Delta State (9-6, 2-2)

    Christian Brothers (11-4, 3-1) at Harding (9-6, 2-2)

    Ouachita Baptist (11-4,3-1) at Henderson State (6-9, 2-3)

    Information:

  • Gulf South Conference





  • Wednesday, January 19, 2005

    NO "MUST SEE GAMES" FOR WEDNESDAY!

    The "Must See Games" segment for 01/18/2005 was not published last night (01/18/2005) due to a server error. D-II South Sports regrets this error.

    Monday, January 17, 2005

    MUST SEE GAMES--01/17/2005

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME:

    Harding (9-6, 2-1) at Central Arkansas (9-6, 3-1)

    The Bisons travel to Conway, Ark. to face the Sugar Bears in this huge Gulf South Conference West Division showdown Monday night. The winner of this game will keep pace with current division leader Arkansas-Monticello (9-5, 4-0)

    Audio:

  • Central Arkansas


  • TOP MEN'S GAME:

    West Alabama (9-5, 2-1) at West Georgia (14-2, 2-1)

    The nationally fourth-ranked Braves play host to the upstart Tigers in a battle for at least a share of first place in the Gulf South Conference East Division Monday night at Carrollton, Ga. The Braves, who were ranked fourth in the most recent NABC/Division II Bulletin poll, got by Montevallo 73-67 at home Saturday night, while the Tigers downed Lincoln Memorial 77-68 on the road.

    Audio:

  • West Georgia


  • BRIEFLY:

    *--The Kennesaw State University men's basketball team saw its 18 game winning streak against Peach Belt Conference foes come to a shocking end, as USC Upstate upset the eighth-ranked and defending NCAA Division II national champion Fighting Owls 81-70 Saturday. Jay Free led the Spartans with 28 points in the victory.

    *--In other action Saturday, Valdosta State split a GSC East doubleheader at North Alabama, with the Lady Blazers cruising past the Lady Lions in the women's game 58-33, while the UNA men avoided the sweep by knocking off the Blazers in the nightcap 59-53. The win by North Alabama created a five-way tie for first place in the GSC East after three games, with West Georgia, UNA, VSU, UWA, and Montevallo all sharing the lead at 2-1 in conference play.

    *--Yandel Brown of Columbus State was recently named one of "Faces In The Crowd" by Sports Illustrated for his scoring exploits so far this season. For more details, click on the link listed below:


  • Peach Belt Conference

  • Friday, January 14, 2005

    MUST SEE GAMES--01/15/2005

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME:

    USC Aiken (12-4, 2-0) at Columbus State (10-4, 3-0)

    The Lady Pacers have been one of the biggest surprises of the season so far, gaining sole possession of first place in the Peach Belt Conference North Division. Meanwhile, the Lady Cougars currently share the South Division lead with Clayton State heading into Saturday's action. Lana Mandic has been one of the keys to the USC Aiken women's success thus far, as she collected 16 points and five rebounds in Wednesday's 70-48 win over UNC Pembroke.

    Audio:

  • USC Aiken


  • Columbus State


  • TOP MEN'S GAME:

    Montevallo (12-3, 2-0) at West Georgia (13-2, 1-1)

    The Falcons travel to Carrollton, Ga. to face the Braves in a key Gulf South Conference Eastern Division game Saturday night. West Georgia rose to fourth in the latest NABC/Division II Bulletin rankings despite losing 98-88 at Valdosta State last Monday (01/10/2005). As for UM, the Falcons will look to stay undefeated in GSC East play with a win.

    Audio:

  • Montevallo


  • West Georgia


  • BONUS COVERAGE:

    Valdosta State (12-2, 2-0) at North Alabama (8-6, 1-1)

    The Blazers look to run their GSC East record to 3-0, while the Lions hope to win two in a row after losing five straight.

    Audio:

  • Valdosta State


  • North Alabama


  • West Florida (8-7, 0-2) at Alabama-Huntsville (6-8, 0-2)

    Both teams come into this game winless in GSC East action, and a must-win situation. The loser of this game could find itself fighting an uphill battle just to get to the Gulf South Conference tournament, never mind the NCAA tournament.

  • West Florida


  • Alabama-Huntsville


  • Thursday, January 13, 2005

    EDDIE PAYNE WINS #300!!!

    USC Upstate men's basketball head coach Eddie Payne won his 300th career game Wednesday night, as the Spartans defeated Francis Marion 80-68 behind 18 points from Erikas Kaupaitis. More importanly, the win allowed USC Upstate (11-3, 3-0) to take over sole possession of first place in the Peach Belt Conference North Division.

    More information:

  • USC Upstate

  • MUST SEE GAMES--01/13/2005

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME:

    Central Arkansas (9-5, 3-0) at Henderson State (10-6, 2-1)

    The Sugar Bears hit the road to take on the Lady Reddies in this key Gulf South Conference West Division match-up Thursday night. UCA will look to win its seventh straight game, while HSU will look to make the GSC West race interesting with a victory.

    Audio:

  • Central Arkansas


  • Henderson State


  • TOP MEN'S GAME:

    WILD WEST SHOWDOWN THURSDAY: No, this phrase doesn't exactly rhyme, but with five teams tied for first place in the Gulf South Conference West Division, and two others within half a game, this should be one of the important nights yet this season. By the end of the night, one team will be either have sole possession of first place, or two teams will share first place, or just maybe, the logjam will get even tighter. Just take your pick.

    Delta State (7-5, 1-1) at Arkansas-Monticello (9-3, 2-0)

    Christian Brothers (9-4, 1-1) at Arkansas Tech (9-5, 2-1)

    Central Arkansas (12-2, 2-1) at Henderson State (6-7, 2-1)




    Wednesday, January 12, 2005

    MUST SEE GAMES--01/12/2005

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME:

    Armstrong Atlantic State (12-4,2-0) at Clayton State (10-3, 2-0)

    The Lady Pirates travel to Morrow, Ga. Wednesday night to take on the Lakers in a battle for first place in the Peach Belt Conference South Division. AASU got by Augusta State 55-51 last Saturday (01/08/2005) despite shooting just 29.7 percent for the contest. On the other handClayton State posted wins over North Florida and Francis Marion to go 2-0 in the PBC for the first time in school history. AASU will put a four-game winning streak on the line, while CCSU looks for its fourth straight win.

    Information:

  • Armstrong Atlantic State



  • Clayton State


  • TOP MEN'S GAME:

    Francis Marion (7-5, 2-0) at USC Upstate (10-3, 2-0)

    After splitting their first 10 games, the Patriots have started 2-0 in PBC action, thanks to a narrow 64-63 win over Lander on Jan. 5, and a 54-47 win at Clayton State three days later. Meanwhile, the Spartans have reeled off three straight wins, including victories over USC Aiken and North Florida to open PBC play. The winner of this contest takes over sole possession of first place in the PBC North Division.

    Information:


  • Francis Marion



  • USC Upstate


  • Tuesday, January 11, 2005

    MUST SEE GAMES--01/11/2005

    TOP MEN'S GAME:

    Fort Valley State (4-5, 3-0) at Kentucky State (4-3, 4-1)

    The Wildcats head into Frankfort, Ky. to take on the Thorobreds in a battle for at least a share of first place in the SIAC. Two of FVSU's losses have come against NCAA Division I foes: Mercer and Georgia Southern, while Kentucky State has also lost to a D-I opponent in Southern University to open the season.

    Information:


  • Fort Valley State

  • Kentucky State




  • BONUS COVERAGE:

    Albany State (4-4, 3-0) at Lane (5-5, 3-2)

    The Golden Rams make the long to trek to Jackson, Tenn. to take on the Dragons in hopes of keeping at least a share of first place in the SIAC. The ASU men remained unbeaten in SIAC action after downing Tuskegee 84-70.

  • Albany State


  • Lane








  • Sunday, January 09, 2005

    MUST SEE GAMES--01/10/2005

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME:

    Arkansas-Monticello, (7-5, 2-0) at Harding (8-5, 1-0)

    The Cotton Blossoms hit the road to face the Bisons in hopes of maintaining at least a share of first place in the Gulf South Conference West Division Monday night. UAM knocked 2004 Final Four participant Henderson State 67-59 Thursday night, while Harding defeated Delta State on the road 52-37 the same night.

    Audio:

  • Arkansas-Monticello




  • HONORABLE MENTION:

    Ouachita Baptist (9-4, 1-1) at Christian Brothers (8-2, 0-1)

    TOP MEN'S GAME:

    West Georgia (13-1, 1-0) at Valdosta State (11-2, 1-0)

    The Braves and Blazers square off in a key early season Gulf South Conference East Division battle Monday night. Both teams were pushed to the limit before finally winning, as West Georgia needed overtime to beat West Florida 100-91, while VSU struggled against a scrappy Lincoln Memorial squad before prevailing 57-49.

    Audio:

  • West Georgia


  • Valdosta State

  • Saturday, January 08, 2005

    MUST SEE GAMES--01/08/2005

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME:

    West Georgia (8-4) at West Florida (8-5)

    This is the Gulf South Conference East Division opener for both teams. The Braves are coming off a 70-65 win over Columbus State on Sunday Jan 2, while the Argonauts lost to Florida Gulf Coast 75-69 a day later.

    Audio:

  • West Georgia


  • West Florida

  • TOP MEN'S GAME:

    Augusta State (8-4, 1-0 Peach Belt Conference) at Armstrong Atlantic State (9-3, 1-0)

    The Jaguars take on the Pirates in a battle of early-season PBC divisional leaders in Savannah, Ga. Augusta State opened PBC play with an easy 83-49 win over UNC Pembroke on Wednesday, while AASU downed Georgia College & State University at home 66-58. ASU currently shares the North Division lead with Francis Marion and USC Upstate, while the Pirates are tied with Clayton State and Kennesaw State for first place in the South Division.

    Audio:

  • AASU




  • Friday, January 07, 2005

    KENNESAW STATE, NORTH FLORIDA JOIN NCAA DIVISION I, ATLANTIC SUN CONFERENCE

    Current Peach Belt Conference and NCAA Division II members Kennesaw State University announced on Wednesday they would join the NCAA Division I Atlantic Sun Conference, effective in the Fall of 2005.

    COMPLETE COVERAGE:

  • Kennesaw State University


  • Marietta (Ga.) Daily Journal

  • Universirty of North Florida











  • Wednesday, January 05, 2005

    MUST SEE GAMES--01/05/2005

    NOTE: For the rest of the basketball season, D-II South Sports will feature the most important conference games involving teams in the Gulf South Conference, the Peach Belt Conference, and the SIAC.

    TOP WOMEN'S GAME

    Georgia College & State University (9-2) at Armstrong Atlantic State University (10-4)

    The defending Peach Belt Conference tournament champions will begin their quest for a second straight tourney title, and third in four years Wednesday night. But, first things first, as the Lady Bobcats must go to Savannah to face the Lady Pirates in the first of 16 regular-season PBC contests. GC&SU will look for a little payback against the AASU women, as the Lady Pirates swept the season series from the Lady Bobcats a year ago.

    Audio:

  • GC&SU


  • AASU

  • TOP MEN'S GAME

    Columbus State (7-3) at Kennesaw State (10-1)

    The defending NCAA Division II national champions will begin their quest for repeat Peach Belt Conference regular-season and tournament titles against an old nemesis in the Cougars. The Fighting Owls are on a roll heading into conference action, as they have won 36 of their last 37 contests dating back to January 2004.

    Audio:

  • CSU
  • KSU




  • Monday, January 03, 2005

    AUGUSTA STATE MEN UPSET WEST GEORGIA

    So much for having a perfect season. At least if you're the men's basketball team at the State University of Georgia. That's because Augusta State (7-4) upset the previously undefeated and 16th-ranked Braves 82-63 Sunday. The loss dropped West Georgia to 12-1 on the season.

    Full story:

  • Augusta State athletics website

  • HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM D-II SOUTH SPORTS!!!

    The staff at D-II South Sports wishes all readers the best wishes in 2005! Remember to visit our website at http://d2southsports.tripod.com.


    SIAC ADDS THREE NEW MEMBERS

    The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference added three new members to its roster to open 2005, as Claflin University of Orangeburg, S.C., Lincoln University of Jefferson City, Mo., and Langston University of Langston, Okla. A fourth newcomer, Stillman College of Tuscaloosa, Ala., will become eligible to win SIAC titles effective in the fall of 2005.

    Full story:

    http://www.thesiac.com