Ecclesia College Men's Basketball
2010 Central Regional
Thursday:
1:00 #3 Colorado Christian vs. #6 York College
3:00 #4 Ecclesia College vs. #5 Central Baptist College
6:00 #2 Mid-America Christian Univesity vs. #7 Central Christian College
8:00 #1 Dallas Baptist University vs. #8 Southwestern Assembly of God University
Friday:
6:00 Winner of 1:00 Thursday vs. Winner of 6:00
8:00 Winner of 2:00 Thursday vs. Winner of 8:00
Saturday:
2:00 Championship
Seniors Leave It On the Floor
Youngblood Puts Stamp On Stellar Career
By Josh Souza, 2/25/10
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
SPRINGDALE---On a night when he was honored for all the things has done well as a four year letterman at Ecclesia, Elroy Youngblood unveiled a new trick in his arsenal, knocking down his first career 3-pointer on his first career attempt in the first half of the Royals 87-77 win over Philanders Smith Thursday evening.
Not only did the 3-ball display an even scarier side to a player who has his hand in nearly every school record, it also opened up the flood-gates for five Ecclesia treys in the first half.
The rest of the night was back to bread and butter for Youngblood and it would be more than enough, as the schools all-time leader in rebounds, steals and games played finished with 12 points, 14 boards and four assist in his final home game in an EC uniform.
The infamous money ball will put Youngblood a mere 139 behind teammate Eric Womack, however his lifetime percentage of 100% from behind the arch may never be touched.
“It was good to see Elroy hit that shot, it opened up our offense and is definitely something he doesn’t often do,” Ecclesia coach J.D. Parker said. “Elroy (Youngblood) does the things you have to do to be successful and I was proud of his effort again tonight as I was all the seniors.”
It was a big night for all three Ecclesia seniors, who all three inconsequently saw pre-mature exits to their fair well contest. Womack (11 points, 3 3-pointers) suffered an ankle injury early in the second half, while Youngblood and Ryan Cooper (11 points, 7 rebounds) each fouled out late in the game.
Philanders nipped at the Royal heels all game, never trailing by more than 12. Demarcus Liscom led the Panthers with 27 points. Ecclesia (17-11) committed a string of five straight turnovers to open the door for a 12-2 scoring run cutting the deficit to 82-77 with under 3:00 to play.
It was during the stretch that Cooper and Youngblood fouled out. Liscom was the catalyst for the Panthers during the run, accounting 18 second half points. He would finish 10-of-21 from the floor and 6-of-12 from the line.
“We hit a stretch where we didn’t take care of the ball,” Parker said. “(Philanders) put good pressure on us and we made some bad choices with the ball...fortunatley we took care of it at the line."
Ecclesia attempted a season high 42 free throws while shooting almost 80%. Robert Valentine finished with a team high 16 for Ecclesia to go along with seven assist. Travis Smith chipped in 15 for the second consecutive game, playing just 19 minutes.
Royal Clutch
Womack Delivers Game Winner Against CBC
By Josh Souza, 2/23/10
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
CONWAY---Eric Womack delivered the divisive blow in a 67-64 win over Central Baptist College Tuesday evening, canning a 3-pointer at the 1:00 mark to cap off his second straight 20-point performance. It is the second time in less than a week that Ecclesia has defeated the CBC.
“It was a tough game with good stretches by both teams,” Ecclesia coach J.D. Parker said. “Eric (Womack) came through when we needed it. The play wasn’t designed for him, he just worked and got open and made a tough shot when we had to have it.”
Central Baptist (17-18) led 32-26 at the half, but Ecclesia would use a couple of early 3-pointers by Womack (21 points, 6-of-11 3-pt FG) and freshman Tyler Shaver even the score with over 17:00 to play. The Royals would go on to shoot 11-of-26 from 3-point land.
Elroy Youngblood turned in 10 points and 13 rebounds. The senior forward has is averaging a double-double during the royals five game winning streak, along with junior Travis Smith (15 points).
“Lots of guys stepped up tonight, it was a big win for us,” Parker said. “I thought Nelson (Boren) gave us quality minutes off the bench early on and that was key. The seniors did an excellent job of handling the pressure of a tough road game. It was a step in the right direction.”
Robert Valentine was able to hold CBC leading scorer Ryan Barnes to 21 points; still good enough for the team high, however it is eight points below Barnes season average of 30. Valentine finished with 13.
Ecclesia (16-11) host Philanders Smith in the Royals regular season finale Thursday evening. All three Ecclesia Seniors (Youngblood, Womack and Ryan Cooper) will be honored as part of EC Senior Night Thursday at the All-Star Sports Arena.
Seniors Shine In Road Win
Royals Cap 4th Straight
By Josh Souza, 2/21/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
PARAGOULD---Ecclesia has returned to form in recent weeks, stringing together a late season winning streak that has now reached four games following an 82-72 victory over Crowley’s Ridge Monday evening.
Fast starts have been the Royals staple during the stretch and that continued with a 46 point first half effort that gave EC a comfortable 18 point lead. Ecclesia (15-11) has outscored its opponents 87-56 in the first half their last two outings.
Seniors Eric Womack, Ryan Cooper and Elroy Youngblood were all key components of the Royals offensive attack, with Womack turning in a game high 21 points to go along with six assist.
Womack and Cooper (17 points, 8 rebounds) got EC off and running with a steady dose of long distance daggers while Youngblood was his usual self, adding eight points and a game high 14 rebounds to the mix.
Crowley’s Ridge (11-10) was able to cut into the deficit mid-way through the second, but never regained the lead. Zack Mitchell led CRC with 16 in what was the last regular season contest left on the Pioneers schedule.
Ecclesia received huge contributions from its bench, namely Cody Wilmath and Travis Smith (9 points, 11 rebounds). Wilmath helped Ecclesia to its fast start with a pair of early 3-pointers.
Royal point guard Robert Valentine finished with 11 points and six assist. Since returning from an ankle injury Valentine has been a main cog in the Royals winning streak, averaging nearly 10 points and five assist per game.
Womack, Smith Lead Ecclesia Past CBC
By Josh Souza, 2/18/10
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
SPRINGDALE---What looked to be a blow-out turned into a barn-burner as Ecclesia held off Central Baptist College for a 71-67 win at the All-Star Sports Arena Thursday evening.
“I thought we won the game in the first half,” Ecclesia coach J.D. Parker said. “We could have helped ourselves out by making more free throws in the second. That is something we have made improvements on and it was frustrating to see us take a step back in that area tonight.”
The Royals were dominate in the first half, building a 41-28 advantage. The lead would swell to 20 with 17:00 left in the second following a pair of 3-pointers by Eric Womack (16).
But just when it looked as if CBC would be run out of the gym, Ryan Barnes took control bringing the Mustangs back from the brink with 15 second half points. The CBC senior and leading scorer finished with a game high 23, going 3-of-4 from the 3-point line.
“Ryan (Barnes) is a heck of a player and he gave us trouble in the second half,” Parker said. “You have to always keep a close guard on him, but (CBC) does a great job of getting him touches and he made the most of them tonight.”
With Barnes at the helm and two Ecclesia starters in foul trouble, the Mustangs would eventually cut the lead to three with under a minute to play. Zack O’Riley canned a 3-pointer to make it 68-65 with 45 seconds left.
Barnes had a chance to even the score on the Mustangs next trip, but Elroy Youngblood was able to come up with a potential game saving steal before knocking down 1-of-2 from the free throw line to seal the win for EC.
Youngblood finished with 9 points and 9 rebounds, while Travis Smith turned in a team high 18. Senior Ryan Cooper chipped in 13 points for Ecclesia, playing with four fouls for most of the second half.
Ecclesia and CBC will face off again Tuesday after Ecclesia travels to Crowley’s Ridge on Saturday.
Royals Route Ozark Christian
By Josh Souza, 2/15/10
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
SPRINGDALE---Ecclesia rode the momentum of a 21-0 first half scoring run to breeze past Ozark Christian College 90-65 in men’s collegiate action Monday evening at the All-Star Sports Arena.
The victory was sweet redemption for Ecclesia, who recently fell to OCC by three points less than two weeks ago. The Royals trailed 14-9 before scoring 21 unanswered points to grab the lead for good midway through the first half. The Royals led by as many as 30 in the second.
“I didn’t think we did anything different during that stretch, but we were able to play good defense in spurts,” Ecclesia head coach JD Parker said. “We still have a lot of things we need to improve on if we’re going to make a run in the last month here, but we are heading in the right direction.”
The Royals (13-11) had four players finish with double figures, led by Travis Smith (21 points, 7 rebounds). Smith finished 8-of-8 at the free throw line and the Royals shot 11-of-24 from 3-point land.
The Ecclesia back-court of Robert Valentine (17 points, 6 assist) and Tyler Shaver (14) gave Ozark Christian match-up problems throughout the contest, while seniors Elroy Youngblood and Eric Womack provided steady offensive support for the Royals motion attack.
Youngblood, who finished with 10 points and six rebounds, has recently become the school’s all-time leader in rebounding, while Womack is closing in on the school’s record for 3-pointers. He finished 2-of-4 from long distance Monday evening to account for eight points.
“Our seniors did a good job of setting the tempo tonight,” Parker said. “We need them to do more however, to beat some of the better teams we’ll face down the stretch.”
Ozark Christina was led by Drew Hanson (18). Ecclesia will be in action again Thursday when they host Central Baptist College.
Freshman Shaver Huge In Road Win
By Josh Souza, 2/4/10
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
HOT SPRINGS---Ecclesia freshman Tyler Shaver did his best Chris Paul impersonation Thursday evening, pouring in a game high 30 points to go along with 10 assist and six steals as the Royals ripped Champions Baptist 88-76 to pull above the .500 mark on the season.
Shaver’s scoring performance set a single-game school record for a Freshman, as did his six steals. The Royals led by 15 at the half (39-24) and never looked back. The EC defense held Champions leading scorer James Manthe at bay throughout the first half, thanks to a strong effort from Senior Elroy Youngblood.
“The defensive effort was great tonight and it started right from the beginning of the game,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “The intensity was there right off the bat and we were able to gain a lot of momentum and hold on to it.
“Obviously I was impressed with Tyler (Shaver’s) performance,” continued Parker. “I thought we did a nice job of making (Champions) work for good shots and we were able to hold their guy (Manthe) to a poor shooting performance early on.”
EC forward Travis Smith turned in a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds, while seniors Eric Womack and Ryan Cooper each added 12 in the winning effort for Ecclesia (12-11).
Champions (10-12) was led by Mark Likins with 25. Manthe, who torched Ecclesia for nearly 40 in their first meeting, was held to 20. Manthe did most of his damage in the second half.
Ecclesia will be in action again Money when they do battle against defending NCCAA champion and currently un-defeated Okalahoma Wesleyan.
Super Cooper
Ecclesia Senior Scores Season High 29
By Josh Souza
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
SPRINGDALE---Ecclesia turned in season highs in 3-pointers and total scoring Monday evening as the Royals canned 15 money balls to breeze past Crowley’s Ridge 91-69 in men’s collegiate action at the All-Star Sports.
Senior Ryan Cooper was the maestro in the Royals offensive symphony all evening. The 6-foot-7-inch Cooper gave Crowley’s Ridge fits all over the court racking up 29 points including five 3-pointers. Phillip McCartney was a key component in Ecclesia’s long range shooting display as well, knocking down three 3-pointers in the first half alone.
“We have been shooting better in practice and it was nice to see that in a game situation,” said Ecclesia coach JD Parker. “There were a lot of guys who stepped up and played well tonight. But we still played a little soft defensively. I guess when you’re shooting well it can hinder you defensively, but we still have along way to go.”
Once Ecclesia (11-10) began to heat-up Crowley’s Ridge could only sit and watch as the Royals launched one rain-maker after another. EC never trailed in the second half and used a pair of treys by Cody Wilmath to stretch its lead to 20 at the 9:00 mark. They would lead by as many as 28.
“This is the most relaxed and loose atmosphere we’ve played in,” Parker said. “I don’t know if it was the quick start or what, but the guys were definitely having a lot of fun out there and you could tell what kind of effect that had in their performance.”
Eric Womack chipped in 14 points and four assist for Ecclesia, while Elroy Youngblood and Robert Valentine each finished with eight.
Crowley’s Ridge played Ecclesia to two points in their first meeting, but the Pioneers were simply outmatched in the re-match. CRC (8-11) was led by Zach Mitchell (18) and Quentin Franks (23).
Ecclesia will be in action again Saturday when they host rival Central Baptist College at 4pm (women’s game starts at 2.)
Royals End Skid With Win Over Rhema
By Josh Souza, 1/21/10
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
SPRINGDALE---Ecclesia ended a five game skid to pull even at .500 on the season, as the Royals held off Rhema Bible College for a 62-56 win at the All-Star Sports Arena Thursday evening.
Travis Smith led Ecclesia with a game high 24 points. Smith was tough in the early goings, scoring eleven in the first half and had his best free throw shooting performance of the season going 6-of-8 at the charity stripe.
“We took care of the ball all night and we have worked to improve in that area,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “This was the first time we’ve been healthy in a long time. That and our free-throw shooting really made the difference tonight.”
Ecclesia (10-10) committed just 14 turnovers in the contest, thanks in large part to the play of Robert Valentine who returned to the line-up after missing the last month with an ankle injury.
Senior Elroy Youngblood finished with a double-double (10 points, 12 rebounds) as the only other Royal to score in double figures.
“It was nice to have Robert (Valentine) back tonight and he played a great game,” Parker said. “He hit a big three for us in the first half and I think that help him settle in.”
Rhema never led in the second half, but the Eagles played to within ten points of the lead the entire game. Andrew Hamm cut the Royal lead to 56-51 with under three to play, but Ecclesia was able to close out the victory at the free throw line where they shot 18-of-23.
Slow Start Spells Doom For Ecclesia
By Josh Souza, 1/13/10
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
SPRINGDALE---Oklahoma Wesleyan proved once again why they are considered by many to be one of the premiere NAIA programs in the country, as Ecclesia became the latest casualty in an Eagles winning streak that is nearing forty games.
Wesleyan, who took home the NAIA division II national title last season hasn’t lost a game in more than a year and it was business as usual Wednesday evening as the Eagles used a 59 point first half to knock off Ecclesia 90-63 at the All-Star Sports Arena.
“We just got pushed around and bullied a bit in the first half, but I was very pleased with the effort we gave over the last 20 minutes,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “Rebounding, especially offensive rebounding was probably the biggest difference tonight. We were right there with them ten minutes into the game and (Wesleyan) just got hot from the outside and we weren’t doing much to slow them down.”
Ecclesia (9-8) is just the fourth team this season to hold Wesleyan to 90 points or less; the Eagles are averaging 95 points per game. EC was able to hold leading scorer Sadiel Rojas to just six points, but the rest of the Eagle squad would more than make up for the off-night by Rojas, with 12 players contributed offensively.
Ryan Cooper kept Ecclesia in the contest early with a steady dose of 3-point shooting, but once the 6’7” Cooper was sent to the bench following a technical foul Wesleyan tore off a 30-3 scoring run and never looked back.
Cooper finished the night with a game high 22 points and the Royals were able to outscore Wesleyan 37-34 in the second half, playing against the Eagles starting line up for nearly the entire half, however the early hole was far too steep to climb out of despite a strong showing in the second.
Elroy Youngblood turned in a double-double with 10 points and 1 1 rebounds, while freshman point guard Tyler Shaver added nine points playing in place the injured Robert Valentine (ankle).
Wesleyan was led by Aaron Crowley’s 18 points. Crowley did the bulk of his damage in the first half where he unleashed five 3-pointers. Levi Mooney added 17 points off the Eagles bench.
Valentine Injured In Heartbreaker
Royals Fall to Philanders
By Josh Souza, 1/9/10
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
LITTLE, ROCK---Philanders Smith rode the hot hand of Brandon Bell to a 80-71 win over Ecclesia Friday evening. Bell scored a game high 20 points as part of a Panther offense and that accounted for eleven 3-pointers during the game, but the biggest story would be a first half injury to Ecclesia point-guard Robert Valentine.
Valentine, who has been the catalyst for the Royals offense all season, suffered a sprained ankle during the first half and never returned, leaving the freshman duo of Octavious May and Tyler Shaver to fill the void.
“It was a big loss for us early in the game,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “Right now the ankle is questionable but it is unlikely we will get (Valentine) back in the next couple of weeks.”
With Valentine shin deep in ice and team leading scorer Eric Womack nursing an early head injury, Philanders tried to take advantage, as guards DeMarkus Lips bomb (18) and Javon Brown (3 3-pointers) pushed the Panthers to a 39-31 halftime lead.
“We struggled a bit early and the injuries had a lot to do with that but we got settled down and did a lot of positive things in the second half,” Parker said. “I thought Tyler (Shaver) came in and played a great game. He and (May) did a great job of filling in and making plays.”
Ecclesia (9-6) mounted a second half comeback behind the play of Womack, who returned to score 17 points. The Royals were bolstered by a double-double effort from Junior forward Travis Smith (20 points, 11 rebounds), as they out-rebounded Philanders 38-25.
EC would tie the score at 61 with under six minutes remaining on a pair of free throws by May. However, Bell would respond with his forth three pointer on the ensuing trip and Ecclesia never got to within five for the remainder of the contest.
Shaver finihsed with seven points and three assist before fouling out late in the second half. Senior Elroy Younblood added eleven points and eight rebounds for Ecclesia.
The Royals will look to rebounded on Wednesday, but it won’t be an easy task when undefeated Oklahoma Wesleyan comes to town. Wesleyan, who took home the NAIA national title last season hasn’t lost in over 30 games.
Royals Hang Tough Amidst Rocky Road Trip
By Josh Souza, 12/19/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
RUSSELVILLE---One glance at the 2009-2010 Ecclesia schedule and it is clear to see that the Royals have undoubtedly reached the point of no return. With contest against NCAA division I Sam Houston State and undefeated D-II affiliate Arkansas Tech, many expected the Royals to struggle, but they have done anything but that during what has now become a three game losing streak.
Ecclesia dropped its final home contest of the semester with a disappointing loss to Hillsdale Baptist before falling to Sam Houston and Tech in the week to follow, bringing its season record to 9-6.
While EC put up less than impressive numbers against SHSU, the Royals would give Tech all that they could handle in a hard fought 80-68 loss that saw Ecclesia get to within five points of the lead against the currently undefeated Wonder Boys who were playing their sixth straight home game.
Tech (9-0) stormed out of the gate to take a 43-26 lead at the half. The Wonder Boys led by as many as 20 in the first, thanks in large part, to the play of guards Brandon Friedel and Renard Allen, both of whom finished with a team high 18 points.
EC would rebound in the second, sparked by the play of senior Eric Womack (19), who was more than effective in his return to the line up following a recent finger injury. Womack hit on 5-of-11 attempts from 3-point land including a pair of money balls that highlighted a 15-0 Royal scoring mid-way through the second.
Womack would drill his season high fifth trey with under 5:00 to play, cutting the Tech lead to 63-58, but that would be as close as Ecclesia would get. The Royals were plagued by 22 turnovers that resulted in 19 points for Tech.
Ecclesia shot 22-of-28 from the free throw line, an area the Royals have worked hard to improve at all season. Ryan Cooper led the way, shooting 3-of-4 from the floor and 6-of-6 from the line. Robert Valentine and Travis Smith each chipped in 10 points for Ecclesia.
Royals Ranked 16th In Recent NCCAA Poll
Defense Has Ecclesia Off and Running
By Josh Souza, 12/10/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
ELM SPRINGS---Ecclesia has used a suffocating defense and balanced offense en-route to a 9-4 start to the 2009-2010 season. The Royals are currently ranked 16th in the National Christian Collegiate Athletic Association Mid-Season Poll.
Ecclesia is ranked in the top 10 in five different team categories including scoring defense and opponents field goal percentage. The Royal are currently allowing slightly over 60 points per game, while holding opponents to just 38.8 percent shooting.
Though EC does not have a player who is averaging over 15 points per game, they have shown to be one of the most balanced offenses in the NCCAA. The Royals have racked up 234 assist on the season, almost 50 more than the next leading team (Oklahoma Weslyan).
Senior guard Elroy Youngblood, who came into the season ranked third on the school’s all-time assist list, is averaging 4.0 dimes per game, putting the Oklahoma native at 12th on the NCCAA’s top assist list this season.
EC’s most surprising statistic has been its work on the defensive glass, where the Royals have pulled down an NCCAA best 354 defensive rebounds. This is especially surprising considering the Royals are playing with a completely re-built front line after losing its top two rebounders from last year’s squad.
Sophomores Matt McCoy and Nelson Boren have stepped in nicely to fill the void left by Oscar Sealy and Beau Tillery, while Travis Smith has provided steady support on the boards helping aid Youngblood and senior Ryan Cooper.
The Royals will need to continue this trend of scrappy play if they want to keep their successful start going into the winter months. EC about to enter the toughest part of its schedule with match-ups against UCA, Arkansas Tech, Sam Houston State and Oklahoma Weslyan in the coming weeks.
Royals Top Patriots
Womack Sufferers Injury in Win
By Josh Souza, 12/4/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
SPRINGDALE---Ecclesia used a balanced attack that saw eight players contribute five or more points, as the Royals coasted past Baptist Bible 74-48 Thursday evening at the All-Star Sports Arena.
Travis Smith led the offense with 14 points off the EC bench, while senior Ryan Cooper (12) finished in double figures for the fourth straight game.
However, it was the Royals work on the boards that made all the difference on Thursday evening. Ecclesia (9-3) out rebounded Baptist Bible 55-31, 45 of which came on the defensive side of the ball.
“I don’t know if sloppy is the right word, but we definitely didn’t play like a team that won by 26 points tonight,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “We turned the ball over way too much and we missed some easy baskets. I was proud of the defense and the way we attacked the boards, but we have a long way to go.”
The Royals committed 15 turnovers between just two of its guards, but made up for it by holding Baptist Bible to 29% shooting. The Patriots were a dismal 1-of-24 from behind the arch and 7-of-16 from the free throw line.
Ecclesia senior Eric Womack (9) was well of his way to a large scoring night when he suffered a broken finger early in the second half, forcing him to miss the remainder of the contest.
It is the first injury of the season for the Royals, and it could be a big one. Womack is the teams most prolific 3-point threat and is closing in on the school record for 3-pointers made, currently held by Jarome Addison.
“All we know right now is that it’s a broken finger, we’ll find out more tomorrow,” Parker said. “To be honest I am concerned about it. He is a senior and a key player for us, I would hate to see him miss any significant time.
“The one positive about this is that Christmas break is coming up so we have some time off,” continued Parker. “If your going to get hurt this is the best time for it to happen, but you just hate to see that happen to one of your seniors, especially the way (Womack) is playing.”
Royals Fall At Henderson State
By Josh Souza, 12/1/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
ARKADELPHIA---Ecclesia hung around long enough to make it interesting, but in the end Lance Smith and Henderson State were just too much for the Royals, as the Reddies claimed a 72-56 win at the Duke Wells Center Tuesday evening.
Smith, a 6-foot-8-inch power forward, poured in a game high 22 points and grabbed 18 rebounds to etch his fifth double-double of the season. The Reddies led 37-30 at the half and never trailed in the second.
“We missed a lot of easy looks under the basket,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said of the loss. “(Henderson State) did a good job of making us work on the boards and they really hurt us with their size inside.”
Ecclesia (8-3) struggled shooting from the outside where they were held to just 5-of-19 from 3-point land and 21-of-56 from the field. The Royals began to attack the basket in the second, enticing Smith into a fourth personal foul with over 10 minutes to play.
With Smith on the bench, Ecclesia quickly capitalized, cutting the deficit to six over the next four minutes. Travis Smith led the way for the Royals, scoring a game high 15 points.
Ryan Cooper reaped the benefits of Smith’s foul trouble as well adding 11 points. It is the third game in a row in which Cooper, a senior, has scored in double figures. During the three game stretch Cooper is averaging 13 points per game.
“Once Lance (Smith) picked up his fourth foul, we were able to chip away at the lead,” Parker said. “But, when he re-entered the game (Smith) really altered the tempo of the with his presence. It wasn’t so much about his scoring late in the game, it was his ability to keep us out of the paint.”
Henderson Sate (4-4) out-rebounded Ecclesia 41-31 sparked by the play of Smith and Vincent Patterson, who also turned in a double-double with 15 points and 11 boards.
Ecclesia will be in action again Thursday when they host Baptist Bible College at the All-Star Sports Arena.
Royals Halt Red Hot Eagles
Valentine Scores 15 In Second Half To Ignite Ecclesia
By Josh Souza, 11/24/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
SPRINGDALE---In the early goings it seemed as if Williams Baptist couldn’t miss from behind the arch. In fact, during the Eagles first six attempts they didn’t miss. But a few second half adjustments by Ecclesia would prove to do the trick, as Ecclesia held on for an 84-76 win over WBC Tuesday evening.
After watching Williams shoot 7-of-10 from three point land in the first half, Ecclesia would re-group to hold the Eagles to just two money balls in the second, while guard Robert Valentine put on a shooting display of his own, scoring 15 second half points en-route to a game-high 20.
“I thought Robert (Valentine) played an excellent game tonight,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “We made some adjustments at the half and I thought the guys did a better job of getting over on their rotations and making it harder for (Williams) to get easy shots. But we still have along way to go on the defense end to get to where we need to be.”
Valentine shot a perfect 4-of-4 from long distance in the second half, including a 3-pointer with 11:16 remaining to give the Royals (8-2) their largest lead of the game (54-45). Senior Ryan Cooper was just as effective, scoring 16 points and grabbing seven rebounds to help aid the EC offense.
Williams, who had won five straight games coming into the contest, never led after the 17:00 mark of the second half. The Eagles (5-4) Were able to get as close as 70-67 in the closing minutes, led by the play of De’Varrio Watson (16) and Jordan Wise (18).
“We still need to develop that killer instinct,” Parker said. “We made the plays that we needed to make to win, but we also let (Williams) back in the game several times when we had a chance to slam the door shut.”
Ecclesia had five players finish with double figures including senior Elroy Youngblood who filled up the stat sheet with 13 points 6 assist, 5 steals, and 6 rebounds. Eric Womack added 13 points as well, hitting on 3-of-7 attempts from 3-point land.
The lead changed hands eight times during the contest, but a 3-point play by Youngblood would give Ecclesia the lead for good with just over 18:00 to play. Valentine and Ecclesia sixth man Travis Smith (10) proved to be too much for Williams down the stretch, as the Royals held off a late Williams rally to claim their second win over the Eagles this season.
Defense Leads Way In Royal Win
By Josh Souza, 11/19/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
SPRINGDALE---Ecclesia held Lyon to just 16-of-48 shooting and its leading scorer Andy Lee to just two points, as the Royals exacted revenge from a previous loss to the Scotts, taking the contest 68-47 in men’s collegiate action Thursday at the All-Star Sports Arena.
“I was extremely proud of the way the defense played tonight and that was without a doubt the biggest difference in tonight and the last time we played these guys,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “The seniors did a great job of setting the tempo and the rest of the guys followed…we got great all around play from several guys tonight.”
Ecclesia (7-2) came up on the short end of a 64-59 loss in Batesville just two weeks ago and were able to improve in nearly every statistical category, most notably turnovers. The Royals forced 19 turnovers during Thursday nights win while committing only 10.
Seniors Eric Womack and Ryan Cooper were key components in Ecclesia’s 8-of-19 showing from behind the arch. Womack finished with a season high 20 points while Cooper chipped in a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds.
Robert Valentine added 14 to the Royals cause while doing most of the defensive work against Lee, who was held to just one field goal after torching the Royals for 22 points in the last meeting between the two clubs.
“This was maybe the best job we’ve done defensively this year,” Parker said. “Robert (Valentine) did an outstanding job on both ends of the floor. I was very pleased with the way he was able to shut down (Lee),who is a great scorer.”
The Scotts were led by Slater Belew with 19. He was the only Lyon player to score more than six. Ecclesia will be in action again Tuesday when they host Williams Baptist College.
Riverhawks Top Royals
By Josh Souza, 11/16/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
TAHLEQUA, OKLAHOMA---The Royals red hot start came a to a screeching halt, as Ecclesia simply ran into a buzz saw of an opponent in the form of Northeastern State University Monday evening. The Riverhawks pushed the smaller Royals up and down the floor en-route to a 69-34 defeat at Jack Dobblins Field House.
The loss marks the worse loss for Ecclesia in nearly a year, as the Royals struggled to keep pace with Northeastern State pre-season All-American candidate Jason Jones, who poured in a team high 15 points in the Riverhawks season debut.
“We just got beat by a really good team,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “Jason (Jones) is the best player we’ve seen all year and (Northeastern) is the best team we’ve seen…this was a good learning experience for us.”
Ecclesia (6-2) was held to just 10-of-42 shooting, while the Riverhawks finished a precise 26-of-46. Northeastern led by as many as 39 and never trailed. Marlon Burnett and Antonie Branch each finished with 14 points.
Ecclesia was led by Travis Smith with 9. The Royals will look to re- bound when they host Lyon College Thursday evening. Lyon won the previous nearly two weeks ago.
Womack Delivers Knock-Out Blow In Rhema Classic
Ecclesia Ties Best Start In School History
By Josh Souza,
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
BROKEN ARROW, OKLAHOMA---For over 20 minutes Eric Womack struggled to find his shot. He got open looks, clanged balls off the rim, and saw them seemingly spiral around every point of the hoop except the net.
The Ecclesia senior, and single season 3-point record holder, finished the first half zero-for-5 from the floor before unleashing a team high 14 points in the second, including the game winning 3-pointer with 1:00 left in regulation to give the Royals a 65-62 win over Robert Morris University Saturday evening at the Rhema Bible Classic.
The clutch 3-pointer by Womack pushed Ecclesia’s record to 6-1 on the season, tying the best start in school history set by the 2008-2009 squad that went on to reach the NCCAA National Tournament.
“We didn’t shoot the ball well at all in the first half, but the guys kept their heads up and our seniors really did a great job of setting the tone early in the second,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “Going into the game we didn’t really know much about (Robert Morris) but they had a tough team. One of the best we’ve seen.”
Ecclesia trailed 29-26 at the half after shooting a season low 8-of-27 from the floor. The Royals would re-group to improve that mark to 13-of-24 in the second led by Womacks’ four 3-pointers.
Elroy Youngblood (14) continued is recent trend of big second half scoring, as the Royal senior poured in double figures offensively for the third game in a row, as did Travis Smith (11).
“Eric (Womack) kept firing and eventually he found his shot…sometimes you just have to keep shooting” Parker said. “I thought the biggest difference for us was limiting (Robert Morris’) possessions in the second half.”
Robert Morris was led by Anthony Patton, who turned in a game high 26 points. Teammate Ethram Davis chipped in a healthy double-double with 18 points and 14 rebounds.
The lead changed hands 10 times before Womack delivered the knock-out blow late in the contest. Ecclesia will be in action again Monday when they take on Northeastern State College in Talequah, Oklahoma
Royals Rally Past Rhema
Smith Scores 20 Off Ecclesia Bench
By Josh Souza
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
BROKEN ARROW, OKLAHOMA---Ecclesia overcame early foul trouble and a 10 point first half deficit to claim a 60-48 win over Rhema Bible College during the Rhema Classic Friday evening.
Royal’s leading scorer Robert Valentine and back-court mate Elroy Youngblood were each tagged with a two early fouls and it wouldn’t be long before tournament hosting Rhema would capitalize, building a 32-22 lead at intermission.
“We struggled in the first half with (Robert) Valentine and (Elroy) Youngblood both on the bench,” said Ecclesia coach JD Parker. “I thought we did a great job of making adjustments and limiting (Rhema’s) shots in the second half. It really made the difference for us.”
Mike McGhee (12) and Robert Sanders (10) set the tempo for a productive offensive first half for Rhema, however the Royals would re-group shut-down Sanders and company down the stretch.
Youngblood (11) would help spark an Ecclesia second half rally, as the Royals held Rhema to just 6-of-26 shooting. Ecclesia (5-1) received large contributions from Junior Travis Smith, who turned in 20 points and nine rebounds off the bench.
Smith, a graduate of Fayetteville Christian, has been spark-plug off Ecclesia’s bench all season averaging 14 points and nearly eight rebounds per game.
Royals Hold Off Late Tiger Rally
Outside Shooting Deadly In Home Opener
By Josh Souza, 11/10/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
SPRINGDALE---Ecclesia came out firing and hitting, as the Royals used an 5-of-7 start from 3-point land to spark a 75-65 win over Champions Baptist College during the teams home opener Tuesday evening at the All-Star Sports Arena.
Senior Ryan Cooper (11 points, 3 blocks) initiated the early start, hitting on his first three attempts from behind the arch. Freshman guard Tyler Shaver would get into the act nearly as soon as he checked in off the Royal bench.
Shaver, who finished with eight points and seven steals, sparked a 10-0 Ecclesia run with consecutive 3-pointers that would push Ecclesia out to a 17-12 lead. The Royals never trailed following the 14:00 mark of the first half.
The Ecclesia defense held Champions Baptist to just 28 first half points, 20 of which came from James Manthe, who went on to score a game high 35. The Royals forced 17 Tiger turnovers.
Ecclesia was led offensively by Robert Valentine (18) and Travis Smith (15). Smith was part of an Ecclesia bench that outscored Champions Baptist 33-0. Champions was led by Manthe and Tommy McGonagall (16).
Ecclesia To Play Defending Champs In Home Opener
By Josh Souza
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
SPRINGDALE---After opening the season with a four game road trip Ecclesia will host Champions Baptist in its home debut at the All-Star Sports Arena Tuesday evening. The Royals were victorious in two bouts against the Tigers last season with both games going down to the wire.
“I don’t know if playing at home gives us any real advantage, you still have to execute and make the same plays whether your on the road or not,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “Right now I feel like we are playing solid during spurts of the game, but right now its all about our guys learning how to put both halves together and keep the intensity up for 40-minutes.”
Champions Baptist finished the 2008-2009 on the highest of notes, taking home the Association for Christian College Athletics (ACCA) national title. The Tigers are 4-0 on the season and boast two 20 point per game scorers including sophomore James Manthe, a transfer from John Brown University.
Ecclesia (3-1) will look to counterpunch the high octane Tiger offense with a bevy of balance. Thus far the Royals have had three players lead the team in scoring. Junior Robert Valentine has been the team’s most prolific scorer averaging 16 points a game.
“So far out balance has probably been our best attribute,” Parker said. “The bench has played solid for us early in this season and I think depth could be one of our biggest strong suits as the year progresses.”
Tip off is scheduled for 7pm and it will be Ecclesia’s only home game until November 19th. Following the match-up with Champions Baptist, the Royals will travel to Broken Arrow, Oklahoma to take part in the Rhema Bible Classic on Friday.
Ecclesia Defense Tough In Road Win
By Josh Souza, 11/7/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
WALNUT RIDGE----Ecclesia erupted for 47 second half points to knock-off Williams Baptist 80-52 in men’s collegiate action Saturday afternoon. The Royals displayed a stifling defense that held Williams to just 33% shooting from the field.
“We came out aggressive in the second half and were able to match what (Williams) was able to do on offense,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “We got it going early and were able to hit a couple 3-pointers to gain the momentum.”
Ecclesia (3-1) canned five 3-pointers in the second half to pull away from Williams, as the Eagles were unable to match the Royals firepower. EC senior Elroy Youngblood (11) sparked the offensive burst with 10 points in the second half to go along with four assist.
Royal guard Robert Valentine led all scorers with 22 points shooting 4-of-5 from behind the arch, while Travis Smith spearheaded a productive Ecclesia bench with 13 points and 13 rebounds.
“Our bench play is very crucial to our teams success,” Parker said. “We play 10-to-12 guys in the rotation. They are all expected to step in and play their roles…tonight they all did a great job.”
Ecclesia finished the night 54% from the field and 88 % from the free throw line. Williams (0-2) had three players finish in double figures offensively; Alex Garmeth (12), Jeremy Hanson (10), and Marcus Massey (10).
The Royals will be in action for their first home contest of the season Tuesday, when they play host to Champions Baptist (4-0) at 7pm.
Lyon Too much For Ecclesia
By Josh Souza, 11/5/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
BATESVILLE---Andy Lee drilled a 15-foot-jump shot with just under one minute to play giving Lyon the leg up in a 64-59 win over Ecclesia Thursday evening. After pulling ahead on the shot by Lee, Lyon would go on to hit 4-of-4 from the line in the closing seconds to nail down the victory.
Lee finished with a game high 22 points in the come from behind win. It was the third contest in the last two seasons between the schools, none of which have seen a margin of victory over seven.
“You never want to come out on the short end of a close game but we can take a lot of good things away for the way we played tonight,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “I think it will help us down the stretch having played these kinds of close games early on.”
Ecclesia, who came up short in an overtime loss on their last trip to Batesville, led 36-30 at the half. The Royals (2-1) never trailed by more than five in the final 15 minutes and held a one point lead with under one minute to play.
However, a shortage of free throw attempts would come back to haunt the Royals late. Lyon attempted 24 free throws to Ecclesia’s 11 and grabbed seven more boards (42-35). One area where Ecclesia did gain the upper hand was in the play of bench, which outscored Lyon 25-9.
“We had a lot of guys step up and contribute tonight,” Parker said. “The young guys and the bench players were key in us hanging close throughout the game and that is something we can build on going forward.”
Robert Valentine (15) and Travis Smith (11 points, 6 rebounds) were the only two Royals to finish in double figures offensively. Ecclesia will be in action again Saturday when they take on Williams Baptist College.
Valentine, Smith Lead Ecclesia In Close Win
By Josh Souza, 10/30/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
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PARAGOULD---Ecclesia survived a sloppy second half to hold off tournament hosting Crowley’s Ridge 68-66 in men’s collegiate action Saturday evening. The Royals led by 15 with ten minutes to play and nearly saw the lead evaporate, before using a pair of free throws by Robert Valentine with five seconds remaining to squelch the late Pioneer rally.
Valentine finished 19 points to lead all scorers, while teammate Travis Smith added 15 as the only two Royals to finish with double figures offensively.
“We definitely didn’t play our best game tonight, but I think there are a lot of positives we can take away from the win,” said Ecclesia coach JD Parker. “I wasn’t pleased with the way we took care of the ball late in the game, but that is something we’ll have to work to improve.
“It wasn’t so much the number of turnovers that was frustrating,” continued Parker. “It was the way we made them. We travel to Lyon on Thursday and we are going to have to take care of the ball better if we want to have a chance to win.”
Crowley’s Ridge (1-1) trailed by 12 at the half, but the Pioneers clawed their way back late in the second led by Zach Mitchell (19) and Chase Halbrook (12). CRC had four players finish with double figures.
With the win, Ecclesia moves to 2-0 on the season. The Royals will look to stay perfect this Thursday when they travel to Lyon College.
Freshman Shaver Scores 14 In Debut
New Comers Pave Way In Season Opener
By Josh Souza, 10/31/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
PARAGOULD---Ecclesia came into the 2009-2010 season with nine returning players on its roster, however it would be the Royals three new additions that paved the way to a 91-49 win over Western Kentucky in the opening round of the Crowley’s Ridge Classic Friday evening.
Freshman Tyler Shaver along with junior transfers Travis Smith (11) and Robert Valentine (8) each finished in double figures in a contest that saw all 12 Royals contribute points offensively. Western Kentucky (2-1) had no player score more than nine.
“Tyler played well, as did everyone who came off the bench,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “We showed a lot of depth tonight. It was good to get all the guys significant time and they all proved that they deserved it.”
Shaver finished with a game high 14 points off the bench in his collegiate debut. Shaver spearheaded an Ecclesia bench that went on to score 49 points, more than the entire Western Kentucky squad.
Ecclesia seniors Ryan Cooper (12) and Eric Womack each finished in double figures as the Royals (1-0) connected on 16 3-pointers. With the win Ecclesia will advance to play Crowley’s Ridge College today at 3pm. The Royals hold a 7-0 lifetime mark against the Pioneers.
Senior Class To Lead Ecclesia in ‘09
Written October 19, 2009 by Josh Souza; Ecclesia Sports Information Director (479) 414-5948
SPRINGDALE---Over the past four years Ecclesia has quickly
risen from the brink of obscurity to the ranks of the well
respected among NCCAA division one programs, thanks in large
part to a 23-11 season in 2008-2009 that culminated in the
schools’ first national tournament birth.
The program has seen a steady incline in wins since its
initial 9-17 showing four years ago, and if that trend is to
continue it will start with the play of the Royals senior
class. The trio of Elroy Youngblood (6‘4“), Eric Womack
(6’4”), and Ryan Cooper (6’7”) will all be crucial
pieces to the puzzle as Ecclesia looks to replace its top thee
scorers from a year ago.
“I think all three guys bring a different element to the
table and everything they bring is equally important,”
said Ecclesia coach, JD Parker. “Elroy (Youngblood), is a
very athletic guard and Eric (Womack) can shoot the lights
out. We are expecting a big year from Ryan (Cooper). He is
our most experienced post player and he has a good perimeter
game as well that makes him hard to guard.”
Womack set the schools’ single season 3-point record with
51 money balls last season, shooting a deadly 40.0% from
behind the arch. The Hot Springs native will be joined on
the front line by Cooper and sophomores Nelson Boren
(6’8”) Matt McCoy (6’8”), and Spencer King
(6’5”).
“We had a great year last season, and I think if we stay
focused and don’t get ahead of ourselves we can do even
better this year,” Cooper said. “I think we have a great
mix of returning players and new players. We have a very
versatile team from top to bottom…we can all do a lot of
different things.”
Cooper, who transferred to Ecclesia from Northern Arkansas
Community College as a junior, averaged six points and six
rebounds off the bench last season. Youngblood comes into
the season ranked second on school’s all time rebound and
steals list and will be looked upon to lead the Royals
defense again this year.
Youngblood finished with 200 rebounds and 47 steals during
his junior campaign, while shooting a team high 56.4% from
the field. The Ecclesia back-court is loaded with depth and
will lean on Youngblood as well as junior Cody Wilmath and
new comers Travis Smith (6’3), Robert Valentine (6’2),
and freshman point guard Tyler Shaver, who averaged 18
points a game as a senior at McDonald County High
School.
Ecclesia plays a tough non-conference schedule with road
trips to Prairie View A&M, Sam Houston State, and UCA.
The Royals open up their season October 30 as they travel to
Paragould to take part in the Crowley’s Ridge Classic.
Royals to put on Putt-Putt Tournament October 15th
Written Sept, 23 2009 by Josh Souza Ecclesia Sports Information Director 479-414-5948
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SPRINGDALE---Ecclesia College will be holding its first annual M.D.R. Properties miniature golf tournament on October 15th at Locomotion Family Fun Park in Fayetteville. The benefit will help raise money for the Ecclesia men’s basketball program as well as promote the Royals 2009-2010 season which will began in late October.
“We really hope to see a good turnout from the Ecclesia student body as well as families around the community,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “We try to stay involved with kids in the area as much as we can and this fundraiser will be a great chance to expand on that philosophy.”
The event will run from 5pm-10 and includes four divisions: 18-up, 12-18, 11-under, and a division for Ecclesia students and faculty. There will be minimum donation of $5 required for students and a minimum $10 donation for adults.
Prizes will be given to the top three scores for each division a there will be a silent auction on the agenda as well. Dinner will also be held prior to the event for Ecclesia students as part of the Universities’ meal plan.
The auction will be conducted by All-American Sports Merchandise and will include sports memorabilia from the Razorbacks, St. Louis Cardinals, and Dallas Cowboys, as well as a $180 weekend get-away to Hot Springs Village.
“We are still seeking sponsors for this event and anyone who wants to volunteer their services is more than welcome to do so,” Parker said. “This is a very cost-friendly event and one that can be fun for the whole family.”
Royals Give Back
Written Sept. 28, 2009 by Josh Souza, Ecclesia Sports Information Director (479) 414-5948
SPRINGDALE---Successful seasons always begin with productive off-seasons, a message not lost on Ecclesia College where pre-season preparation goes far beyond mere X’s and O’s. The Royals seemingly have as much work to do off the floor as they do on this fall, with a number of camps and community benefits on the agenda.
The latest project came last Friday when the Ecclesia players entered week three of a fall instructional program they are conducting with the K-3 students of Providence Classical Academy in Rogers.
“This is a great opportunity for the guys to get hands on with the people of this community and that is something we take a lot of pride in,” Ecclesia Head Coach JD Parker said. “Several of these players are going into the coaching field after graduation so this is also a chance to learn how to work with kids.
Providence Classical Academy is in the midst of starting its own Prep basketball program this season, under the direction of Coach Austin Bivens, who approached Parker with the idea of starting the mini-camp for the younger students of Providence.
“We like to do anything we can do to get involved with local youth programs,” Parker said. “With Providence being a private Christian school in the process of building a program from the ground up it is really a great fit for both sides.”
Nearly 30 Providence students were on hand for the mini-clinic that included instruction on several fundamental drills conducted by Ecclesia players and coaches.
“My son (Aidan) has had a great time so far and I think this is a great program,” Providence parent Joy Looney said of the camp. “They are learning a lot about the game but more than anything this is just a good experience for the kids.”
The sessions will run throughout the fall on Friday mornings from 10a.m. -11 a.m. at the All-Star Sports Arena in Springdale.
“We are very thankful for Coach Parker and his players for helping our kids out,” Bivens said. “It really is a lot of fun for these kids. Every week they look forward to seeing the players and getting on the floor with them.”
Sealy To Join Coaching Staff
Writen Sept. 28, 2009 by Josh Souza, Ecclesia Sports Information Director 479-414-5948
SPRINGDALE---For the first time in its four year existence the Ecclesia men’s basketball program will have a fulltime assistant coach this season however, the new position is anything but a new face around campus.
Former Ecclesia standout Oscar Sealy will serve as assistant to coach JD Parker, ironically helping the Royals fill the void left by his departure. Sealy graduated last Spring as the schools all time leader in points and rebounds.
“I never wanted to see my seniors go last season, and that goes especially for Oscar (Sealy),” said head coach JD Parker. “He was such a big part of our team’s success I was thrilled to be able to bring him back as a coach. I think it will be a great opportunity for (Sealy) as well as the younger guys.
“Oscar has a great mind for this game and his presence is great on several levels,” continued Parker. “He will be able to relate to these guys and he knows what it takes to be a great student athlete.”
Sealy, a native of Panama City Panama, was a three year starter at Ecclesia and finished with over 1,000 points and 800 rebounds, averaging nearly a double-double during his senior season.
“I was very happy for the opportunity to stay around and coach these new guys,” Sealy said. “Coaching is something I have wanted to do for as long as I can remember and having the chance to come into a collegiate level program right after graduation is a great situation for me personally.”
Sealy’s biggest task this season will be getting the Royals young front line up to speed, namely sophomores Nelson Boren and Matt McCoy.
“I think both of those guys have a lot of potential,” Sealy said. “(McCoy) is a well rounded offensive player and (Boren) is long and athletic. The biggest key for both of them right now is getting reps in practice and learning how to play stronger in the paint.”
Royals Add New Weapons
By Josh Souza, EC Sports Information Director
SPRINGDALE — Ecclesia College, starting its fourth year under coach JD Parker, will look to build on the success it enjoyed during the 2008-09 season with the addition of four new recruits, three of which have been recent standouts in the Northwest Arkansas prep ranks. The list includes Travis Smith (Fayetteville Christian), Tyler Shaver (McDonald County, Mo.) and Kaleb Houston (Huntsville). Also joining the Royals will be junior transfer Robert Valentine (Lake View Terrace, CA).
The Royals return nine players from the team that finished 23-11 last season including a 13-1 home record. The influx of new talent should help Ecclesia repeat that kind of success in 2010. “We have some guys coming in this season that can really do a multitude of things,” Parker said. “We have a few holes left from last season, but this has a chance to be a really good group.”
Smith, a 6-foot-3 junior, could play up to four positions in the Royals' motion offense. A native of the Bahamas, Smith enjoyed a stellar career at Fayetteville Christian which included a state title in 2007 before moving on to Northern Oklahoma State College for a two year stint with the Jets. The move to Ecclesia will reunite Smith with former Fayetteville Christian running-mate Phillip McCartney, also a native of the Bahamas.
“(Travis) Smith and (Robert) Valentine are very athletic players,” Parker said. “(Smith) is long and can handle the ball well and both guys can score in a variety of ways. They already have some collegiate experience which should help them early on.”
Shaver, who averaged 18 points a game for McDonald County(Anderson, Mo.) as a senior in 2009, will see adequate time a point guard, as the Royals look to replace three-year starter Jarrome Addison. “Right now I am just trying to get adjusted to the speed of the game,” Shaver said. “I need to be able to handle the ball well in order for our offense to have success this year and that is what I am focused on right now. I think as guard I look to distribute the ball first and let the points come later." Houston will add more ammunition in a backcourt full of sharp-shooters. The 6-foot freshman was a member of the 2007 Huntsville state championship team.
