Trying to Build Momentum

One-on-One With Jon Harris

(St. Louis, MO) – Southern Illinois Edwardsville has won two straight games and coach Jon Harris says the Cougars are trying to build momentum heading into conference play. SIUE (4-8) opens Ohio Valley Conference play at home against Southeast Missouri.

The fourth year head coach has been improving his roster and despite the loss of one of his most trusted returners (Justin Benton), Harris sees a growing team and program.

Harris says the advent of conference play is a part of the season that gets coaches and players excited. The Cougars have had a stable line up and feel comfortable in their roles.

 

 

David McFarland and newcomer Tyresse Williford are the team’s leading scorers, each averaging over 14 points per game. Williford has given the Cougars a quickness dimension that helps them offensively and defensively. McFarland’s offseason was filled with hard work and Harris says that work has paid off.

 

 

Two St. Louis area players are key contributors. Brandon Jackson (Cardinal Ritter) played behind Jalen Henry last season and has stepped in well. Jackson is third in scoring (12.3 ppg) and leads the team in rebounding (6.1 per game). Cameron Williams (Hazelwood Central) has emerged more quickly than some expected. He is fourth in scoring (9.0 ppg) and third in minutes played.

Harris says those two St. Louis players have brought some surprising results.

 

 

The Opener

SEMO (5-8) visits the Vadalabene Center in the OVC opener for both teams. Ledarrius Brewer (13.5 ppg) and Skyler Hogan (12.6 ppg) lead the Redhawks in scoring. Hogan is making over 45 percent of his three-point efforts.

Harris says his team will be challenged by SEMO’s transition game and their ‘will-to-win’. He says Redhawk coach Rick Ray brings an intensity to a team and the ability to play tough.

 

 

SEMO and SIUE are both trying to build momentum. The first OVC test for both is tonight in Edwardsville.

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