Seminole News
Thu, Jan 12, 2012 - [Men's Basketball]
Brandon Caporale
Brandon Caporale

ALTUS, Oklahoma - The Trojans kicked off 2012 in a positive manner as they traveled to Altus to face the Western Pioneers and came home with a much needed win.

 

The Trojans came out hot in the first half and took an early lead against the Pioneers. Their defense and ability to rebound the ball gave them a 25-24 lead at the half. The Trojans shot only 32% from the floor in the first half, but their 2-3 zone defense combined with being +2 on the boards gave them a one point lead at the break.

In the second half both teams shot the ball better from the floor but the difference in the game was Seminole's ability to get to the stripe and convert on 19 of 27 free throws in the second half alone compared to Western who only shot 19 free throws for the entire game. Seminole State's defense forced 21 turnovers and had 10 steals in a back and forth game which was sealed after Brandon Caporale took a charge with just 7 seconds remaining and the Trojans only up by 2 points at the time. JoVaughn Love converted on one of two free throws to extend the Seminole lead to 3. Western's three point attempt fell short as time expired and Seminole came out with a big road conference win to start off the second half of the season. 
Head Coach Tom Mills said, "We were very happy to get a conference road win last night. We didn't play or shoot particularly well, but made just enough plays to get by. Some timely second half shooting, decent free throw shooting, and two huge charges drawn in the final few possessions were key."
JoVaughn Love led the Trojans with 16 points and Brandon Caporale added 13. The Trojans are now 4-9 and 2-1 in the conference.

 

Box Score

JoVaughn Love-16, Brandon Caporale-13, Kendall Parks-9, Dante Lewis-8, Josh Crolley-6, Chase Mongold-4, D'Anthony Perkins-3, Rod Smith-3, Darrius Bryson-1

Three-pointers: 4/17 - JoVaugn Love - 2

Rebounds: 29 - Chase Mongold - 7

 

The Belles and Trojans are on the road Thursday at Connors State College in Warner, OK. Game time is 6 and 8 p.m. Both teams will be back at home on Thursday, January 19 when they face Carl Albert State College.