LSUS Pilots drop close contest to Central Baptist, 83-82
11/07/03

After a win Thursday night over Bethel College, the LSUS Pilots took the floor searching for their second victory Friday afternoon against Tip-Off Classic host Central Baptist Mustangs of Conway, Ark.. The contest got off to a quick start behind the hot hand of Pilots guard Chavis Rose who poured in 12 points in the first 10 minutes of the half. The first half was a see-saw battle which ended with the Pilots taking a 47-42 lead into the locker room at halftime.

Central Baptist (3-1) began the second half with a 10-0 run as the Pilots failed to score on their first eight shot attempts. However, sophomore guard Rico Payne, a transfer from Northwestern, took over the Pilots offense and led LSUS down the stretch with a 35-point performance on 13 of 24 shooting.

After many lead changes throughout the second half, the Pilots had control of the ball with 16 seconds left on the game clock, trailing 83-82. With some good ball movement they were able to get an open shot from beyond the three- point line that caromed off front of the rim and was rebounded by the Mustangs which sealed an 83-82 victory. Derrick Sowell finished the game for the Pilots one rebound shy of a double-double, with 15 points, nine rebounds and three steals.

The Mustangs moved to 4-1 on the season and bumped LSUS to a .500 record of 1-1. The Pilots will take the floor again Tuesday night in Hawkins, Texas, where they will take on Jarvis Christian College.

Issued by Allan Cantwell (sports@lsus.edu)