Brian Barone Joins the Podcast
(St. Louis, MO) – Southern Illinois Edwardsville’s historic 2022-23 season has created a hunger to see what are SIUE’s next steps. Picked to finish second in the recent Ohio Valley Conference poll, the Cougars return four starters and intriguing newcomers.
Returning starters Ray’Sean Taylor, Damarco Minor, Shamar and Lamar Wright make the Cougars the most experienced OVC team. Taylor was an all OVC first-teamer last season and Minor landed on the ‘all-newcomer’ team. The Wright twins are beginning their fifth (covid) full-time season in Edwardsville, Illinois.
Taylor is recovering from a knee injury, but Barone believes he’s healthy enough to take on his customary lead role.
Incoming guards Jordan Pickettt and Brian Taylor II (Ray’Sean’s cousin) are highly regarded players from the nearby region.
During our conversation with coach Barone he talks about his relationships with veterans and his excitement about the newcomers. He’s genuinely excited about the status of the program, but knows it needs to grow and improve.
The Cougars open Monday night at Dayton and their home opener is Thursday against North Park. To listen to our conversation and learn about SIUE’s next steps head to Valley Hoops Insider Podcast.
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Flooding, lightning strikes, etc. have cost @RacersHoops two home games. Had to play 'neutral site' tonight instead of at home and Wednesday's goes from home to away. Tough break for the Racers, and the whole area has been hit with difficulties. #FatherHarry
Murray State's scheduled home game Wednesday vs. Southern Illinois being moved to Banterra Center in Carbondale. #ValleyHoops
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