By Natalie Pearson
For the past eight years Selection Sunday has been just another Sunday for UNC Asheville. Not this year.
In the packed Highsmith Grotto, the newly-crowned Big South Conference Champions waited patiently – teetering on the edge of their seats – to hear which opponent they are to face in the first round of the NCAA National Basketball Championships.
“I was very nervous,” senior forward John Williams said. “We all were. There was talk about us playing Duke in Charlotte, but I wasn’t surprised to play a play-in game. Either way we’re just excited to play against someone.”
The “someone” was the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, another mid-major school from the Sun Belt Conference, who they Tuesday in Dayton, OH.
Despite their athletic prowess not being the standard of Duke or North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Head Coach Eddie Biedenbach is not breathing easy.
“There’s no such thing as a bad team at this level,” he said. “They’ve made it this far and that says something. We’re going to go out there and be the best we can be.”
Something that may put the Bulldogs at ease is the knowledge of the aptly named “Bulldog Nation” – the faithful fans who followed the team through the season and who came out to support them on Sunday.
“I support the Bulldogs all the way,” senior management student and ex-Bulldog tennis player Tania Mateva said. “This is huge for the school and the boys have worked so hard to get there. I think there’s going to be more than a few upsets.”
Upsets are something the Bulldogs are dishing out this season, starting with their jaw-dropping victory over Auburn. As the year went on, the Bulldog’s picked up the pace, highlighted by junior guard Matt Dickey’s buzzer beating 3-pointer to defeat conference foe Coastal Carolina, and the team’s commanding victory over the same opponent a-week-and-a-half ago in the conference tournament final.
The 60-47 win over the Chanticleer’s made the team only the third to qualify in school history, and the first to make it to the Big Dance since 2003.
“This is the best year in all my four years at this school,” Williams said.
If (and when!) the Bulldogs win on Tuesday, they will play Pittsburgh Thursday in Washington D.C. Tune in, cross your fingers and put on your dancing shoes for another Bulldog victory.
Go Bulldogs!
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Monday, February 28, 2011
A Big Weekend for the Bulldogs
A Big Weekend for the Bulldogs
By Natalie Pearson
The weekend proved to be a successful one for the Bulldogs. To begin, the track and field team competed in the Big South Indoor Track and Field Championships at Clemson, S.C., on Thursday and Friday.
And compete they did.
Second places performances from Melanie Kulesz, Sarah Gentry, Natalie Pearson and the Distance Medley Relay team – consisting of Claire Powell, Gentry, Alyska Kalmeijer and Kylie Smith – helped rack up 62 points for the Bulldogs, placing them 3rd in the overall standings. The bronze is the highest the women’s team has finished in the conference in school history, earning Head Coach Jesse Norman Coach of the Year.
Bulldog success struck again on Saturday, when the men’s basketball team blew past conference foe Radford University. The home game was played in front of an encouraging, sold out crowd, which helped push UNC Asheville to an 82-58 victory.
Aside from solidifying the Bulldog’s 3rd place in the conference standings and confirming a first round home game in the Big South tournament, the match up was also the last to be played in the Justice Center before moving to the North Carolina Center for Health and Wellness next season.
In addition, it marked the last home game for seniors John Williams and Eric Stubbs, who concluded their college careers in style, scoring 28 points combined.
Go Bulldogs!
By Natalie Pearson
The weekend proved to be a successful one for the Bulldogs. To begin, the track and field team competed in the Big South Indoor Track and Field Championships at Clemson, S.C., on Thursday and Friday.
And compete they did.
Second places performances from Melanie Kulesz, Sarah Gentry, Natalie Pearson and the Distance Medley Relay team – consisting of Claire Powell, Gentry, Alyska Kalmeijer and Kylie Smith – helped rack up 62 points for the Bulldogs, placing them 3rd in the overall standings. The bronze is the highest the women’s team has finished in the conference in school history, earning Head Coach Jesse Norman Coach of the Year.
Bulldog success struck again on Saturday, when the men’s basketball team blew past conference foe Radford University. The home game was played in front of an encouraging, sold out crowd, which helped push UNC Asheville to an 82-58 victory.
Aside from solidifying the Bulldog’s 3rd place in the conference standings and confirming a first round home game in the Big South tournament, the match up was also the last to be played in the Justice Center before moving to the North Carolina Center for Health and Wellness next season.
In addition, it marked the last home game for seniors John Williams and Eric Stubbs, who concluded their college careers in style, scoring 28 points combined.
Go Bulldogs!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Track and Field Preview for this Weekend
Track and Field Big South Preview
By Natalie Pearson
UNC Asheville’s men and women’s track and field team will finish up their indoor schedule with the Big South Indoor Conference meet held at Clemson this Thursday and Friday.
Freshman sprinter Milan Ristic will be one to look out for on the men’s side. So far this season, he has racked up a school record in the indoor 200-meter dash with 22.32seconds, a tied school record in the 55-meter dash with 6.49, and the second fastest time in school history in the 60-meter hurdles with 8.28. He will be competing in the 60 hurdles, the 200 and the 1,600-meter relay at Clemson and is currently ranked 10th in the 200 and 7th in the hurdles.
On the women’s team, distance runners Melanie Kulesz and Emma Bussard continue to shine in the mile. The duo began their indoor season capturing 1st and 2nd respectively at the Appalachian State University Open meet in January, and went on to finish 4th and 5th respectively at East Tennessee State’s Niswonger Invitational in February. The girl’s are currently ranked 5th and 6th respectively in the conference and so will be looking for a podium finish this weekend.
Simon Haake, the experienced senior thrower, will also make a showing at Clemson in the shot put and weight throw. Coming of an exceptional 2010 outdoor season, highlighted by a regional qualifying javelin throw, Haake will be determined to make an impact in the indoor conference.
By Natalie Pearson
UNC Asheville’s men and women’s track and field team will finish up their indoor schedule with the Big South Indoor Conference meet held at Clemson this Thursday and Friday.
Freshman sprinter Milan Ristic will be one to look out for on the men’s side. So far this season, he has racked up a school record in the indoor 200-meter dash with 22.32seconds, a tied school record in the 55-meter dash with 6.49, and the second fastest time in school history in the 60-meter hurdles with 8.28. He will be competing in the 60 hurdles, the 200 and the 1,600-meter relay at Clemson and is currently ranked 10th in the 200 and 7th in the hurdles.
On the women’s team, distance runners Melanie Kulesz and Emma Bussard continue to shine in the mile. The duo began their indoor season capturing 1st and 2nd respectively at the Appalachian State University Open meet in January, and went on to finish 4th and 5th respectively at East Tennessee State’s Niswonger Invitational in February. The girl’s are currently ranked 5th and 6th respectively in the conference and so will be looking for a podium finish this weekend.
Simon Haake, the experienced senior thrower, will also make a showing at Clemson in the shot put and weight throw. Coming of an exceptional 2010 outdoor season, highlighted by a regional qualifying javelin throw, Haake will be determined to make an impact in the indoor conference.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Bulldog Baseball Opens This Weekend
By Natalie Pearson
The Bulldog baseball season begins this weekend in front of a home crowd at Greenwood Field. The team will face non-conference opponents Murray State – a Division I school traditional in good baseball. However, with UNC Asheville’s enhanced roster, cosmetic improvements to the dugouts, the field and the backstop, and the promise of good weather this weekend, the team is raring to go.
“I’m excited, the staff’s excited, I think the entire department’s excited and the kids are excited,” Head Coach Tom Smith said.
Since last season, the Bulldogs have welcomed 15 freshmen and two junior transfer student athletes. These players, representing a healthy mix of local and out of state athletes, carry with them the hope of a successful season.
“We’ve brought in very talented freshmen,” Smith said. “They’ll progress with seasoning and some will have important roles from the very beginning.”
The three game series against the Thoroughbreds from Kentucky will be the first match up the Bulldogs have played against them historically. The homestand will also mark the beginning of a brand new 53-game season including eight home games and 10 contests at the Asheville Tourist’s home turf, McCormick Field.
Go Bulldogs!
The Bulldog baseball season begins this weekend in front of a home crowd at Greenwood Field. The team will face non-conference opponents Murray State – a Division I school traditional in good baseball. However, with UNC Asheville’s enhanced roster, cosmetic improvements to the dugouts, the field and the backstop, and the promise of good weather this weekend, the team is raring to go.
“I’m excited, the staff’s excited, I think the entire department’s excited and the kids are excited,” Head Coach Tom Smith said.
Since last season, the Bulldogs have welcomed 15 freshmen and two junior transfer student athletes. These players, representing a healthy mix of local and out of state athletes, carry with them the hope of a successful season.
“We’ve brought in very talented freshmen,” Smith said. “They’ll progress with seasoning and some will have important roles from the very beginning.”
The three game series against the Thoroughbreds from Kentucky will be the first match up the Bulldogs have played against them historically. The homestand will also mark the beginning of a brand new 53-game season including eight home games and 10 contests at the Asheville Tourist’s home turf, McCormick Field.
Go Bulldogs!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
By Natalie Pearson
The Bulldog men’s and women’s tennis programs are poised to begin a positive 2011 season with the addition of new players, old and new.
For the women’s team, Freshman Zoe Hamel is joining the Bulldogs all the way from Paris, and should provide some depth to a roster that is sparse due to illness and graduated players.
As for the men, the Bulldogs boast two incoming players: freshman John Schubel and junior Alex Appelt. Appelt, a former Bulldog, played at UNC Asheville from 2008 to 2010 before taking a semester sabbatical at Roanoake College, VA. He is now back in Asheville for good, and will add sparks of chemistry on and off the court.
Although the duo will help majorly in practices and team morale, the newbies will have to wait until next year’s season to get out on the courts in official match play due to NCAA Division I transfer rules.
The Big South preseason polls have picked both Bulldog teams to finish in 7th in conference play, but Asheville has proved the polls wrong in the past, and with the help of Hamel, Schubel, Appelt and 12 returning players, can do so again.
The men’s team kicks off their spring season on Feb. 4 on home turf at the Crowne Plaza. The women will begin this Friday against Davidson, at Davidson, and, after two straight years of winning seasons will be looking for a third.
Go Bulldogs!
The Bulldog men’s and women’s tennis programs are poised to begin a positive 2011 season with the addition of new players, old and new.
For the women’s team, Freshman Zoe Hamel is joining the Bulldogs all the way from Paris, and should provide some depth to a roster that is sparse due to illness and graduated players.
As for the men, the Bulldogs boast two incoming players: freshman John Schubel and junior Alex Appelt. Appelt, a former Bulldog, played at UNC Asheville from 2008 to 2010 before taking a semester sabbatical at Roanoake College, VA. He is now back in Asheville for good, and will add sparks of chemistry on and off the court.
Although the duo will help majorly in practices and team morale, the newbies will have to wait until next year’s season to get out on the courts in official match play due to NCAA Division I transfer rules.
The Big South preseason polls have picked both Bulldog teams to finish in 7th in conference play, but Asheville has proved the polls wrong in the past, and with the help of Hamel, Schubel, Appelt and 12 returning players, can do so again.
The men’s team kicks off their spring season on Feb. 4 on home turf at the Crowne Plaza. The women will begin this Friday against Davidson, at Davidson, and, after two straight years of winning seasons will be looking for a third.
Go Bulldogs!
Friday, October 29, 2010
Support UNC Asheville Volleyball and Coach Torbett
The UNC Asheville volleyball team is finally home for awhile. Bulldog fans need to take advantage of these five matches and come out and support this young team. It’s been a weird schedule for Julie Torbett’s club but when you have won as much as the Bulldogs have done the past few years its a little harder to schedule home matches.
Our fans need to support this young team that is playing its heart out every match but for Coach Torbett. She needs just two victories to reach 300 for her career, all at UNC Asheville. Coach “T” began her head coaching career back in 1994 with a win over UT-Martin, while she was pregnant with her first son Nate. A lot of wins have come since that Thursday night in late August and two more Torbett boys.
Julie’s teams have always played hard and given us some incredible volleyball action. Who can forget her 2002 team that was picked to finish in last place and finished first with a thrilling five-set win over Winthrop in the final home match of the season. The 2005 team that knocked off Memphis and Louisiana Tech and got to the Big South Conference title game. Her young 2006 team with Elif Unlu that went to another Big South title game. The Bulldogs bounced back from a tough start to finish in second place in the league standings. How about last year’s club that won the regular-season title in dramatic fashion over Winthrop on the final day of the season, 16-14 in the fifth set.
This year’s team graduated a lot from last year’s 25-10 squad. Throw in a tough non-conference schedule that has included road matches all throughout the southeast, the fact the Bulldogs are 13-10 is amazing. But Coach Torbett has amazed us time after time in her brilliant coaching career.
We need to show her the same support. Make your plans to come to Justice Center tonight, tomorrow after, next Tuesday and next weekend to support the Bulldogs.
Our fans need to support this young team that is playing its heart out every match but for Coach Torbett. She needs just two victories to reach 300 for her career, all at UNC Asheville. Coach “T” began her head coaching career back in 1994 with a win over UT-Martin, while she was pregnant with her first son Nate. A lot of wins have come since that Thursday night in late August and two more Torbett boys.
Julie’s teams have always played hard and given us some incredible volleyball action. Who can forget her 2002 team that was picked to finish in last place and finished first with a thrilling five-set win over Winthrop in the final home match of the season. The 2005 team that knocked off Memphis and Louisiana Tech and got to the Big South Conference title game. Her young 2006 team with Elif Unlu that went to another Big South title game. The Bulldogs bounced back from a tough start to finish in second place in the league standings. How about last year’s club that won the regular-season title in dramatic fashion over Winthrop on the final day of the season, 16-14 in the fifth set.
This year’s team graduated a lot from last year’s 25-10 squad. Throw in a tough non-conference schedule that has included road matches all throughout the southeast, the fact the Bulldogs are 13-10 is amazing. But Coach Torbett has amazed us time after time in her brilliant coaching career.
We need to show her the same support. Make your plans to come to Justice Center tonight, tomorrow after, next Tuesday and next weekend to support the Bulldogs.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Volleyball Player Jenna Dover Has A New Blog
Senior rightside hitter Jenna Dover will be writing a blog for the upcoming 2010 UNC Asheville volleyball season. Here are her first two entries.
VolleyBlog
Entry 2
August 3, 2010
"WORKING ON MY FITNESS"
Today, I did an entire agilities workout while listening to JOCK JAMS Volume 2. Working out, or doing anything for that matter, is better when music is playing in the background. A.D.D. could be a possible factor there. Needless to say, it was an awesome workout thanks to the music. The songs on this CD are standards for sporting events. How many times have you heard "Let's Get Ready to Rumble" at any kind of game?
When will ESPN come back to their senses and create a new volume? On the other hand, if they did, I probably won't enjoy it because the likely song selections would make the CD resemble the Now That's What I Call Music CD collection.
I would definitely include "Don't Stop Believing," "Eye of the Tiger," and "What a Feeling" on my JOCK JAMS playlist. What would be on yours?
VolleyBlog
Entry 1
July 22, 2010
"HOT OF THE PRESS"
The 2010 volleyball schedule just came out. It's a fresh start with a new season filled with new opponents. The promise of "next year;" it's why we keep coming back. This is my last "next year," though. The past three years have gone by so fast that I can't help but wonder, "How did I get here?" It feels like just yesterday I forgot my driver's license on the first road trip of my college career, which would not have been a big deal if we weren't flying to Florida State, but we were. The good thing about starting as a dunce is that you can't go anywhere but up!
With the real world lurking in the distance, will my last year as a college athlete at UNC Asheville be the "Last One there is the Rotten Egg" or "Saved the Best for Last?"
VolleyBlog
Entry 2
August 3, 2010
"WORKING ON MY FITNESS"
Today, I did an entire agilities workout while listening to JOCK JAMS Volume 2. Working out, or doing anything for that matter, is better when music is playing in the background. A.D.D. could be a possible factor there. Needless to say, it was an awesome workout thanks to the music. The songs on this CD are standards for sporting events. How many times have you heard "Let's Get Ready to Rumble" at any kind of game?
When will ESPN come back to their senses and create a new volume? On the other hand, if they did, I probably won't enjoy it because the likely song selections would make the CD resemble the Now That's What I Call Music CD collection.
I would definitely include "Don't Stop Believing," "Eye of the Tiger," and "What a Feeling" on my JOCK JAMS playlist. What would be on yours?
VolleyBlog
Entry 1
July 22, 2010
"HOT OF THE PRESS"
The 2010 volleyball schedule just came out. It's a fresh start with a new season filled with new opponents. The promise of "next year;" it's why we keep coming back. This is my last "next year," though. The past three years have gone by so fast that I can't help but wonder, "How did I get here?" It feels like just yesterday I forgot my driver's license on the first road trip of my college career, which would not have been a big deal if we weren't flying to Florida State, but we were. The good thing about starting as a dunce is that you can't go anywhere but up!
With the real world lurking in the distance, will my last year as a college athlete at UNC Asheville be the "Last One there is the Rotten Egg" or "Saved the Best for Last?"
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Ty Wigginton in the All-Star Game
The Major League All-Star game will be played tonight in Anaheim and for Bulldog fans this year’s event will definitely be worth watching.
That’s because the school’s only major league player – Ty Wigginton will be on the American League squad. Wigginton, who played at UNC Asheville from 1996-98, was picked by American League manager Joe Giradi. Ty has enjoyed a successful season with the Baltimore Orioles and has been a real bright spot for them in an otherwise tough first half for the O’s.
This is truly a great moment for Ty. He has played for five different teams, been cut twice, been sent to the minors and wasn’t scheduled to play much for Baltimore this year. The Orioles had some injuries, and Ty got put into the starting line-up, first at second base and then at first base. He carried the Orioles in the first two months of the season with his hitting.
Through it all, Ty Wigginton is the same guy that played hard for the Bulldogs each and ever day he was here. I had the pleasure of seeing him play in Boston a few weeks ago. Talking to him before a game at Fenway Park, Ty was the exact same guy I talked to at Greenwood Field in the late 90’s. Reading his interviews about being picked and watching some of his interviews on-line you see why his manager Juan Samuel said – “I’ve never heard anybody say anything bad about Wiggy. That’s why he’s getting so many calls and texts about making the All-Star Team. People are so happy for him. He plays the game the right way.”
So tonight turn your TV set on and root for Ty Wigginton. He’s one of our guys, and we’re proud of him.
That’s because the school’s only major league player – Ty Wigginton will be on the American League squad. Wigginton, who played at UNC Asheville from 1996-98, was picked by American League manager Joe Giradi. Ty has enjoyed a successful season with the Baltimore Orioles and has been a real bright spot for them in an otherwise tough first half for the O’s.
This is truly a great moment for Ty. He has played for five different teams, been cut twice, been sent to the minors and wasn’t scheduled to play much for Baltimore this year. The Orioles had some injuries, and Ty got put into the starting line-up, first at second base and then at first base. He carried the Orioles in the first two months of the season with his hitting.
Through it all, Ty Wigginton is the same guy that played hard for the Bulldogs each and ever day he was here. I had the pleasure of seeing him play in Boston a few weeks ago. Talking to him before a game at Fenway Park, Ty was the exact same guy I talked to at Greenwood Field in the late 90’s. Reading his interviews about being picked and watching some of his interviews on-line you see why his manager Juan Samuel said – “I’ve never heard anybody say anything bad about Wiggy. That’s why he’s getting so many calls and texts about making the All-Star Team. People are so happy for him. He plays the game the right way.”
So tonight turn your TV set on and root for Ty Wigginton. He’s one of our guys, and we’re proud of him.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
New Soccer Coaches Start Next Week
A new era of soccer will begin for UNC Asheville next week when new men’s soccer coach Matt Kern and women’s soccer coach Michelle Demko report to work officially.
The duo will replace the husband and wife team of Steve and Michele Cornish that guided both programs for a long time. Steve coached the men’s team for 18 years, while Michele became the Big South’s all-time winningest coach in her 16 years with the women’s team.
Matt Kern is not a stranger to Bulldog Athletics. After serving as head coach of Wofford for six years, he’s helped out both Asheville programs the past two years. Matt didn’t have a lot of luck with the Terrier program but he did lay the groundwork for Wofford’s championship team this year. The Terriers won the Southern Conference regular-season and tournament title in 2009. All 11 starters were recruited to Wofford by Matt Kern. Matt knows this year’s team pretty well and it should be a smooth transition.
Demko comes to Asheville after working at Nebraska for the past three years. She was a great player at the University of Maryland and was named as one of the top 50 players in the history of the ACC a few years ago. That’s a pretty big honor when you think of all the great players who have performed in that league over the years. It will be fun to watch her develop this year’s Bulldog team and build the program back up to the top of the Big South Conference.
The duo will replace the husband and wife team of Steve and Michele Cornish that guided both programs for a long time. Steve coached the men’s team for 18 years, while Michele became the Big South’s all-time winningest coach in her 16 years with the women’s team.
Matt Kern is not a stranger to Bulldog Athletics. After serving as head coach of Wofford for six years, he’s helped out both Asheville programs the past two years. Matt didn’t have a lot of luck with the Terrier program but he did lay the groundwork for Wofford’s championship team this year. The Terriers won the Southern Conference regular-season and tournament title in 2009. All 11 starters were recruited to Wofford by Matt Kern. Matt knows this year’s team pretty well and it should be a smooth transition.
Demko comes to Asheville after working at Nebraska for the past three years. She was a great player at the University of Maryland and was named as one of the top 50 players in the history of the ACC a few years ago. That’s a pretty big honor when you think of all the great players who have performed in that league over the years. It will be fun to watch her develop this year’s Bulldog team and build the program back up to the top of the Big South Conference.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
UNC Asheville at Tennessee Tonight In Baseball
The Bulldog Blog will be attending tonight's baseball game between UNC Asheville and the University of Tennessee. Stay up to date with everything going on in Knoxville at the ball park. Game time is set for 7 p.m.
This will be the 48th game of the season for the Bulldogs, who are currently 15-32 overall. The home-standing Volunteers are 29-23 on the year and will likely start Drew Steckenrider (0-1, 7.20 ERA).
UNC Asheville will most likely go with Drew Spear (3-4, 8.51 ERA).
The Volunteers lead the all-time series between the schools, 19-6. Tennessee is also 16-6 against the Bulldogs in Knoxville. UNC Asheville has won in Knoxville in 1989, 1990, 1998, 2000, 2005 and 2006.
Tennessee won last year's match-up, 13-3.
This will be the 48th game of the season for the Bulldogs, who are currently 15-32 overall. The home-standing Volunteers are 29-23 on the year and will likely start Drew Steckenrider (0-1, 7.20 ERA).
UNC Asheville will most likely go with Drew Spear (3-4, 8.51 ERA).
The Volunteers lead the all-time series between the schools, 19-6. Tennessee is also 16-6 against the Bulldogs in Knoxville. UNC Asheville has won in Knoxville in 1989, 1990, 1998, 2000, 2005 and 2006.
Tennessee won last year's match-up, 13-3.
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Thank You Steve & Michele
The end of May will end two wonderful coaching era’s at UNC Asheville.
Steve and Michele Cornish have been the face of UNC Asheville soccer for the past 16 years. Steve was named as the Bulldogs head men’s coach in 1992, while Michele was named head women’s coach in 1994.
The duo have led Bulldog Athletics to some great moments during their careers. Steve inherited a tough situation in 1992 as the Bulldog program had been without a coach for almost six months. No recruiting being done. No spring practice. No spring season. Players left and transferred from a solid club in 1991.
Somehow Steve got the Bulldogs to win four matches that year and had them competitive in a bunch more. He led Asheville to some memorable victories. Who can forget the 2-1 upset of defending Big South champ Coastal Carolina in 1995 at Greenwood Field. There was a 2-1 victory over Evansville at home in 2001. And in 2007 with the Bulldogs in the midst of a seven-match losing streak, Asheville picked up its first ever win over an ACC foe when the Bulldogs shocked Clemson 2-1 in overtime. Patrick Tate’s goal midway through the second overtime period on a rainy day made us all forget how rainy and wet we were that day.
It didn’t take long for Michele to make an impact on Bulldog Athletics. In 1995, she guided the Bulldogs to a memorable Big South Conference championship. UNC Asheville was on fire from the start of the year and earned a trip to the its first ever Big South Conference championship game where the Bulldogs stunned nationally-ranked UNC Greensboro, 1-0 on the Lady Spartans home field. Fifteen years later I can still see Ashley Hart tapping in McKenzie’s Miller shot for the only goal of the match early in the second half. The Bulldogs won 16 matches that year, still a school record.
The next year Asheville went to another Big South title game against Greensboro and took the nationally-ranked Spartans to PK’s where the Bulldogs fell. That year had great moments, including a memorable 2-0 victory over Wake Forest at home. The Deacons were nationally-ranked and would win two games in the NCAA Tournament later that year but were denied by Cornish’s club that day.
Michele had good teams over the years but had some back luck in Big South finals. Two regular-season championship clubs fell in the tourney and in 2003 the cruelest loss of all came when the Bulldogs fell in PK’s to High Point, 3-2. Asheville led 2-0 in PK’s but couldn’t hold on for easily the toughest loss in school history.
In 2006, Michele’s team broke through and became the first women’s team at UNC Asheville to go to the NCAA Tournament. The freshmen who had suffered through that bitter loss in 2003 to High Point led the Bulldogs to an amazing tournament title. Asheville knocked off three teams that it had not beaten in the regular season and downed Liberty in PK’s 4-2. The Bulldogs got a chance to go to the NCAA Tournament and play eventual national champion UNC Chapel Hill.
Steve and Michele did a great job running their programs and did it a class way. They put Asheville soccer on the map in the area and their players did things the right way. Mike Roach, a men’s soccer player in the early part of the last decade, was a first-team Academic All-American who had a perfect 4.0 GPA, while majoring in chemistry. Michele’s teams always did well in the classroom with several of her players earning spots on the All-Region All-Academic team.
Steve and Michele leave us for a great opportunity at Shattuck-St. Mary’s Prep School in Minnesota. That’s where Steve was at before he came to UNC Asheville in the spring of 1992. It shows how much a school thinks of Steve that 18 years later they still wanted him back.
An era of Bulldog soccer ends later this month but Steve and Michele will never be forgotten.
Steve and Michele Cornish have been the face of UNC Asheville soccer for the past 16 years. Steve was named as the Bulldogs head men’s coach in 1992, while Michele was named head women’s coach in 1994.
The duo have led Bulldog Athletics to some great moments during their careers. Steve inherited a tough situation in 1992 as the Bulldog program had been without a coach for almost six months. No recruiting being done. No spring practice. No spring season. Players left and transferred from a solid club in 1991.
Somehow Steve got the Bulldogs to win four matches that year and had them competitive in a bunch more. He led Asheville to some memorable victories. Who can forget the 2-1 upset of defending Big South champ Coastal Carolina in 1995 at Greenwood Field. There was a 2-1 victory over Evansville at home in 2001. And in 2007 with the Bulldogs in the midst of a seven-match losing streak, Asheville picked up its first ever win over an ACC foe when the Bulldogs shocked Clemson 2-1 in overtime. Patrick Tate’s goal midway through the second overtime period on a rainy day made us all forget how rainy and wet we were that day.
It didn’t take long for Michele to make an impact on Bulldog Athletics. In 1995, she guided the Bulldogs to a memorable Big South Conference championship. UNC Asheville was on fire from the start of the year and earned a trip to the its first ever Big South Conference championship game where the Bulldogs stunned nationally-ranked UNC Greensboro, 1-0 on the Lady Spartans home field. Fifteen years later I can still see Ashley Hart tapping in McKenzie’s Miller shot for the only goal of the match early in the second half. The Bulldogs won 16 matches that year, still a school record.
The next year Asheville went to another Big South title game against Greensboro and took the nationally-ranked Spartans to PK’s where the Bulldogs fell. That year had great moments, including a memorable 2-0 victory over Wake Forest at home. The Deacons were nationally-ranked and would win two games in the NCAA Tournament later that year but were denied by Cornish’s club that day.
Michele had good teams over the years but had some back luck in Big South finals. Two regular-season championship clubs fell in the tourney and in 2003 the cruelest loss of all came when the Bulldogs fell in PK’s to High Point, 3-2. Asheville led 2-0 in PK’s but couldn’t hold on for easily the toughest loss in school history.
In 2006, Michele’s team broke through and became the first women’s team at UNC Asheville to go to the NCAA Tournament. The freshmen who had suffered through that bitter loss in 2003 to High Point led the Bulldogs to an amazing tournament title. Asheville knocked off three teams that it had not beaten in the regular season and downed Liberty in PK’s 4-2. The Bulldogs got a chance to go to the NCAA Tournament and play eventual national champion UNC Chapel Hill.
Steve and Michele did a great job running their programs and did it a class way. They put Asheville soccer on the map in the area and their players did things the right way. Mike Roach, a men’s soccer player in the early part of the last decade, was a first-team Academic All-American who had a perfect 4.0 GPA, while majoring in chemistry. Michele’s teams always did well in the classroom with several of her players earning spots on the All-Region All-Academic team.
Steve and Michele leave us for a great opportunity at Shattuck-St. Mary’s Prep School in Minnesota. That’s where Steve was at before he came to UNC Asheville in the spring of 1992. It shows how much a school thinks of Steve that 18 years later they still wanted him back.
An era of Bulldog soccer ends later this month but Steve and Michele will never be forgotten.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Josh Pittman Going Into Big South Hall of Fame
UNC Asheville received some great news last week when we found out that former men’s basketball player Josh Pittman was being inducted into the Big South Hall of Fame in June.
Josh enjoyed a great career for the Bulldogs from 1994-98. He helped lead UNC Asheville to its first ever Big South Conference regular-season championships in 1997 and 1998. Josh was the Big South Player of the Year in 1997 and 1998.
I have a lot of great memories from Josh’s career. I remember some of his great dunks, including one over 1997 Final Four MVP Miles Simon at Arizona his senior year. There was another at New Mexico State when the Bulldogs stunned the Aggies in his junior season.
I also remember what a class act he was on and off the court. He never got too high or too low and just went about his business. Whenever he was interviewed, Josh was always quick to praise his teammates for any accomplishments. When we inducted Josh into the UNC Asheville Hall of Fame he hadn’t changed a bit.
Josh Pittman will become the first male from UNC Asheville to be in the Big South Hall of Fame. No one is more deserving.
Josh enjoyed a great career for the Bulldogs from 1994-98. He helped lead UNC Asheville to its first ever Big South Conference regular-season championships in 1997 and 1998. Josh was the Big South Player of the Year in 1997 and 1998.
I have a lot of great memories from Josh’s career. I remember some of his great dunks, including one over 1997 Final Four MVP Miles Simon at Arizona his senior year. There was another at New Mexico State when the Bulldogs stunned the Aggies in his junior season.
I also remember what a class act he was on and off the court. He never got too high or too low and just went about his business. Whenever he was interviewed, Josh was always quick to praise his teammates for any accomplishments. When we inducted Josh into the UNC Asheville Hall of Fame he hadn’t changed a bit.
Josh Pittman will become the first male from UNC Asheville to be in the Big South Hall of Fame. No one is more deserving.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Bulldog Baseball Posts Two Big Wins This Weekend
The UNC Asheville baseball team picked up two impressive wins this weekend as the Bulldogs won a Big South Conference series against Liberty at Greenwood Field.
First-year coach Tom Smith’s team edged the Flames 5-4 on Friday and then won Saturday’s first game, 2-1 on Justin Schumer’s solo home run in the bottom of the ninth inning. Liberty won Saturday’s nightcap 7-3 but the Bulldogs had already claimed their first Big South series win since the 2008 season. The Flames are traditionally one of the top teams in the league every year and they did not expect to lose a series to the Bulldogs.
Asheville is 7-13 on the young season and has shown a great deal of improvement already this year. The Bulldogs only won nine games all of last year and will surpass their win total from a year ago shortly.
One of the most impressive feats this weekend was Asheville’s pitching. The Bulldogs got a great effort from freshman Drew Spear in Friday’s win. Spear bounced back from a rocky start to limit Liberty the rest of the game. On Saturday, sophomore Ryan Dull was impressive in pitching a complete game against the Flames. He allowed a run in the first inning and little else after that to raise his record to 3-0. Dull also earned a save on Friday.
Smith promised his team would play hard for nine innings. The Bulldogs have done just that and will play everybody tough the rest of the season.
This weekend Asheville hosts VMI in a Big South Conference series. The series begins at Greenwood Field on Friday at 3 p.m., followed by a double-header at McCormick Field on Saturday at 1 p.m. Come out and support the Bulldogs. You’ll see an improved team that’s only going to get better.
First-year coach Tom Smith’s team edged the Flames 5-4 on Friday and then won Saturday’s first game, 2-1 on Justin Schumer’s solo home run in the bottom of the ninth inning. Liberty won Saturday’s nightcap 7-3 but the Bulldogs had already claimed their first Big South series win since the 2008 season. The Flames are traditionally one of the top teams in the league every year and they did not expect to lose a series to the Bulldogs.
Asheville is 7-13 on the young season and has shown a great deal of improvement already this year. The Bulldogs only won nine games all of last year and will surpass their win total from a year ago shortly.
One of the most impressive feats this weekend was Asheville’s pitching. The Bulldogs got a great effort from freshman Drew Spear in Friday’s win. Spear bounced back from a rocky start to limit Liberty the rest of the game. On Saturday, sophomore Ryan Dull was impressive in pitching a complete game against the Flames. He allowed a run in the first inning and little else after that to raise his record to 3-0. Dull also earned a save on Friday.
Smith promised his team would play hard for nine innings. The Bulldogs have done just that and will play everybody tough the rest of the season.
This weekend Asheville hosts VMI in a Big South Conference series. The series begins at Greenwood Field on Friday at 3 p.m., followed by a double-header at McCormick Field on Saturday at 1 p.m. Come out and support the Bulldogs. You’ll see an improved team that’s only going to get better.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Bulldog Tennis To Shine in 2010
We’re coming down the stretch with basketball season, but this spring make sure you check out the Bulldog men’s and women’s tennis teams.
The men’s squad is 2-2 on the year, while the women’s team is 1-1. Both teams look much improved from last year and could compete for Big South Conference titles this season.
The men’s squad has some new players and returnees that could make them one of the most improved teams in the nation. An impressive 7-0 win over Division II power Mars Hill two weeks ago gave just a glimpse of how good this team could be. They lost to Furman last week but every match was competitive and the Paladins are among the nation’s top teams every year.
On the women’s side, the Bulldogs return just about everyone from last year. They lost to Furman last week but came so close to winning the doubles point and each singles match could have gone either way. The Lady Paladins are a national power, as well.
Both teams should be better because of their new home. The Bulldog squads will practice and play at the Crowne Plaza Tennis Center, just five minutes away from campus. If the weather is good, it’s a nice place to watch a match outdoors. If the weather is bad, then the indoor courts are a good place to play and watch.
Head Coach Lise Gregory and Assistant Coach Tom Hand have worked hard to improve Bulldog tennis. Watch them as the year goes on and you’ll be impressed with what they’ve achieved.
The men’s squad is 2-2 on the year, while the women’s team is 1-1. Both teams look much improved from last year and could compete for Big South Conference titles this season.
The men’s squad has some new players and returnees that could make them one of the most improved teams in the nation. An impressive 7-0 win over Division II power Mars Hill two weeks ago gave just a glimpse of how good this team could be. They lost to Furman last week but every match was competitive and the Paladins are among the nation’s top teams every year.
On the women’s side, the Bulldogs return just about everyone from last year. They lost to Furman last week but came so close to winning the doubles point and each singles match could have gone either way. The Lady Paladins are a national power, as well.
Both teams should be better because of their new home. The Bulldog squads will practice and play at the Crowne Plaza Tennis Center, just five minutes away from campus. If the weather is good, it’s a nice place to watch a match outdoors. If the weather is bad, then the indoor courts are a good place to play and watch.
Head Coach Lise Gregory and Assistant Coach Tom Hand have worked hard to improve Bulldog tennis. Watch them as the year goes on and you’ll be impressed with what they’ve achieved.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Bulldogs Go to the South Carolina Coast This Weekend
Sunday was a great win for the UNC Asheville men’s basketball team. The Bulldogs played very well in beating the defending Big South champions Radford, 92-84. Ironically, the same score that the Highlanders beat the Bulldogs in last year’s Big South Conference semifinal tournament game.
It was a total team effort in the victory as once again Asheville had five players in double figures. Matt Dickey scored 26 points, despite only taking eight shots in the game. He was 10-of-12 from the free throw line. How about the play of freshman Jaron Lane with a career-best 17 points and eight rebounds? He really gave the Bulldogs a lift off the bench. John Williams is blocking every shot in sight it seems. His next one will make him the school’s all-time leader in that category.
Another big weekend is ahead for Coach Biedenbach’s club. Asheville plays at Charleston Southern Thursday night and Coastal Carolina on Saturday afternoon. Two teams that beat the Bulldogs at home in early January. Each game becomes bigger as we head toward March.
It was a total team effort in the victory as once again Asheville had five players in double figures. Matt Dickey scored 26 points, despite only taking eight shots in the game. He was 10-of-12 from the free throw line. How about the play of freshman Jaron Lane with a career-best 17 points and eight rebounds? He really gave the Bulldogs a lift off the bench. John Williams is blocking every shot in sight it seems. His next one will make him the school’s all-time leader in that category.
Another big weekend is ahead for Coach Biedenbach’s club. Asheville plays at Charleston Southern Thursday night and Coastal Carolina on Saturday afternoon. Two teams that beat the Bulldogs at home in early January. Each game becomes bigger as we head toward March.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Two Big Games for Men's Basketball This Week
The UNC Asheville men’s basketball team has battled back and picked up five straight wins over a 10-day period and is over .500 in league play (5-4).
The more the Bulldogs wins and the bigger the next game becomes. Asheville ends its five-game homestand with two crucial league games this week. The Dogs host High Point Thursday night and then take on Radford Saturday afternoon at 4:30 p.m.
Both games are huge. After Saturday, Asheville has only three league games at home remaining. The Bulldogs are in position to make a move in the league standings but must hold serve at home. Asheville and High Point always play close games that can go either way. Last year, both games against the Panthers went the Bulldogs’ way. Earlier this month, the game went High Point’s way. On Saturday against Radford, the Bulldogs hope to break a five-game losing streak to the Highlanders. All five losses have been close but they’ve been losses nevertheless.
The Bulldogs have improved in all areas over the past few weeks but the offense has really taken off. After only having one player average in double figures in scoring (J.P. Primm) for most of the season, Asheville has five players averaging in double figures going into the High Point game. The Dogs don’t have anybody who will lead the league in scoring but they have plenty of guys that can hurt you.
We need two great crowds this week to support our Bulldogs and try and get us two wins.
The more the Bulldogs wins and the bigger the next game becomes. Asheville ends its five-game homestand with two crucial league games this week. The Dogs host High Point Thursday night and then take on Radford Saturday afternoon at 4:30 p.m.
Both games are huge. After Saturday, Asheville has only three league games at home remaining. The Bulldogs are in position to make a move in the league standings but must hold serve at home. Asheville and High Point always play close games that can go either way. Last year, both games against the Panthers went the Bulldogs’ way. Earlier this month, the game went High Point’s way. On Saturday against Radford, the Bulldogs hope to break a five-game losing streak to the Highlanders. All five losses have been close but they’ve been losses nevertheless.
The Bulldogs have improved in all areas over the past few weeks but the offense has really taken off. After only having one player average in double figures in scoring (J.P. Primm) for most of the season, Asheville has five players averaging in double figures going into the High Point game. The Dogs don’t have anybody who will lead the league in scoring but they have plenty of guys that can hurt you.
We need two great crowds this week to support our Bulldogs and try and get us two wins.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Men's Basketball Just Needs A Little Luck
The UNC Asheville men’s basketball team had a lot of luck last week but not too much of it was good luck. The Bulldogs lost four Big South Conference games in seven days that they easily could have won. In three of the games, Asheville was either tied or in the lead in the last two minutes but just couldn’t get the right bounce. Last Monday at High Point, a long three-pointer off a busted play helped give the Panthers the victory. Thursday against Coastal Carolina, a team that has now won 12 games in a row, a shot that came oh so close to bouncing out instead bounced in with 5.5 seconds left to give the Chanticleers the victory. Last Saturday against Charleston Southern, the Bulldogs were one defensive stop away from winning.
What’s impressive about this Asheville team is that it keeps battling and playing. With the tough schedule the Bulldogs had early and the expectations it had, it would be easy for them to hang their heads or simply throw in the towel for this season. But this Asheville team has not come close to doing that and as we all know it’s a long season and a lot of interesting things can happen in March. The Bulldogs are on the road for two games this week at VMI and Liberty and then come home for five straight home games. It’s one of the longest homestands in recent memory. If Asheville can keep improving and maybe find a lucky bounce along the way the Bulldogs have a chance to make some noise come March.
What’s impressive about this Asheville team is that it keeps battling and playing. With the tough schedule the Bulldogs had early and the expectations it had, it would be easy for them to hang their heads or simply throw in the towel for this season. But this Asheville team has not come close to doing that and as we all know it’s a long season and a lot of interesting things can happen in March. The Bulldogs are on the road for two games this week at VMI and Liberty and then come home for five straight home games. It’s one of the longest homestands in recent memory. If Asheville can keep improving and maybe find a lucky bounce along the way the Bulldogs have a chance to make some noise come March.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Georgia Southern to Visit Justice Center for First Time
The Bulldogs will be back in action Wednesday night when they host Georgia Southern at the Justice Center. UNC Asheville (3-5) snapped a four-game losing streak on Friday with a convincing 94-63 victory over Southern Wesleyan. The Eagles (4-4, 2-0 Southern Conference) are off to a strong start and look to stymie the Bulldogs with their defense when the teams meet in Asheville for the first time.
The dismantling of Southern Wesleyan on Saturday was driven by a career day from Lindsey Montgomery, who finished with 29 points and 20 rebounds – both career highs. It was the first 20/20 performance by a Bulldog since the 1983-84 campaign. Linda Aughburns, Montgomery’s complement in the post, finished up with 17 points and 6 assists. Lindsey Thompson also cracked double figures with 13 points. The Bulldogs shot 55 percent from the field, including 67 percent in the second half, and out-rebounded the Warriors 47-23 to claim the easy win, despite turning the ball over 24 times.
Despite starting in only one game this season, Montgomery now leads the Bulldogs in scoring (12.1), field-goal percentage (.475), and rebounds (9.1). Thompson averages 10.0 points, and Aughburns is just shy of a double-double for the season with 9.1 points and 7.1 rebounds. Asheville’s 21.4 turnovers per game remain a concern, but the Bulldogs’ rebounding and defensive tenacity have kept them competitive.
Georgia Southern leads the Southern Conference in scoring defense, allowing only 57.2 points per game. The Eagles were picked to finish in the middle of the SoCon pack after an 11-9 finish last season, but have looked like contenders thus far. After a tough beginning to the season that included Duke and Auburn, Georgia Southern cruised to victories over conference foes Elon and Appalachian State. Guard Carolyn Whitney leads the Eagles in scoring with 11.3 PPG, and forward J’Lisia Ogburn is averaging 10.5 points and a team-high 5.9 boards. Jessica Geiger is a quality all-around producer, with 6.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.1 steals per game.
Georgia Southern has defeated UNC Asheville in each of the previous two meetings between the schools, but they have never faced off at the Justice Center. Last season the Eagles came away with a 52-39 victory over the Bulldogs in Statesboro behind a 12 point performance from Geiger. Chioma Okoli led Asheville with 12 points and 7 rebounds in the game. The Bulldogs have a chance to take down Georgia Southern, but will need to protect the ball and find Montgomery and Aughburns in the post for high-percentage shots.
Go Bulldogs!
Monday, December 14, 2009
Men's Basketball To Host Catawba
The Bulldogs seemed to have recovered from the rocky start to their season on Sunday night, when they clobbered Montreat 100-49. Five players scored in double figures for UNC Asheville and three others were within two points as the Bulldogs (2-6, 1-0) took advantage of a balanced attack and strong defensive effort to win their second straight. UNC Asheville will try to keep the streak alive on Tuesday evening when it hosts Division II Catawba, but the game will be no easy challenge. The Indians (5-3, 0-1) are the two-time defending champions of the South Atlantic Conference tournament and the favorite to win it again this year, thanks to the outstanding play of a trio of seniors.
Sean Smith knocked down 5-of-9 three-point attempts on Sunday night and led the Bulldogs with 18, but the supporting cast was just as impressive. J.P. Primm narrowly missed a triple-double, finishing with 14 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists - to go with only one turnover. John Williams went a perfect 5-for-5 from the field to close the night with 11 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 blocks. Quinard Jackson and Chris Stephenson were also in double figures with 10 points apiece. D.J. Cunningham posted nine points, nine boards, and a game-high five blocks. The Bulldogs also got excellent bench production from Eric Stubbs (8 points, 3 blocks), and Jaron Lane (8 points, 8 rebounds). UNC Asheville outshot the Cavaliers 49% to 29% and turned the ball over only 9 times. The Bulldogs also dominated on the defensive end, outrebounding Montreat by a staggering 58-32 margin and recording 15 steals and 13 blocks.
One week after a last-second shot from Stephenson at Gardner-Webb gave the Bulldogs their first win of the season, UNC Asheville appeared to be hitting on all cylinders. Smith remains Asheville’s leading scorer at 11.4 PPG, and has improved his three-point shooting to over 35 percent despite a brutal early season shooting slump. Primm and Stephenson also average double figures at 10.9 and 10.3 points, respectively. Williams averages 8.9 points and leads the team in rebounding (6.1 per game) and blocks (18 total).
Catawba was picked to win the South Atlantic Conference by a wide margin in the preseason coaches’ poll, following their dominance of the conference tournament the last two seasons. Picked to finish eighth in that nine team conference is Brevard College, a team that defeated UNC Asheville 73-69 at the Justice Center in an exhibition game this season. The Indians lost their conference opener at Lenoir-Rhyne on December 2nd, but bounced back on the 5th with a decisive 78-55 win over Chowan at the TWC Arena in Charlotte. Catawba’s backcourt was expected to excel and has not disappointed. Seniors Rob Fields and Antonio Houston were both first team all-conference selections in the preseason. Fields leads the team in scoring with 17.4 PPG on .518 shooting, and is also the leader in assists. Houston averages 15.9 points, 5.1 boards, and leads the Indians in steals. A third senior, forward Donald Rutherford is making the case that he belongs on the all-conference squad as well. Rutherford averages 15.4 PPG and team highs in field goal percentage (.560), rebounds (6.9), and blocks.
The Bulldogs defeated Catawba 84-67 last season at the Justice Center, a game in which both Primm and Stubbs reached double figures (in addition to then-seniors Reid Augst and Jason Ridenhour). Catawba will be far from an easy out on Tuesday, and will likely be emboldened by Brevard’s exhibition upset and Asheville’s less-than-stellar non-conference record. However, the Bulldogs looked like a team that is putting it all together on Sunday, and if they turn in a similar performance tomorrow night, they will have a good chance to make it three in a row.
Go Dogs!!!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Women's Hoops to Host Southern Wesleyan
UNC Asheville returns home to the Justice Center on Friday night to take on Southern Wesleyan. The Bulldogs (2-5) have lost four straight, including a brutal three-game road trip that concluded with a 59-37 loss at Charlotte on Saturday. Southern Wesleyan (6-2, 1-2 SSAC) boasts a high-scoring offense that could present a real challenge for Asheville.
The Bulldogs have put forth a good defensive effort but have yet to find an explosive scoring threat this season. No Asheville player currently averages double-figure points per game, but four are close. Lindsey Thompson leads the team in scoring at 9.6 PPG, and Lindsey Montgomery (9.3 PPG, 7.3 RPG) and Linda Aughburns (8.0 PPG, 7.3 RPG) have been consistent producers at both ends of the floor. Chioma Okoli (8.9 PPG, 5.9 RPG) has been solid but has not yet taken over a game offensively.
The Bulldogs struggled on Saturday with turnovers and poor field goal shooting. After protecting the ball much better against Western Carolina, Asheville committed 30 turnovers against Charlotte, the Bulldogs’ second game with at least 30 giveaways this season. Asheville shot over 40 percent in the first half, but 19 percent from the field (including 11 percent from three-point range) in the second half sealed the Bulldogs’ fate.
Southern Wesleyan has had no shortage of offense early this season. The Warriors average 84 points per game, and have four players averaging double-figures. Sophomore Kayla Plantin leads the team in points (16.0), rebounds (7.3), and field goal percentage (an astronomical .658). Senior point guard Kesha Smith averages 14.9 points on .579 shooting, along with team-highs 4.6 assists and 3.3 steals. Smith has turned in four points-assists double-doubles this season. Kendra Brooks averages 12.6 PPG for the Warriors, and Janaye Gillard rounds out the group with 12.4 (on .538 shooting).
Southern Wesleyan was picked to finish seventh in the Southern States Athletic Conference this season, but has reeled off some impressive wins in the early going, including a 72-44 clobbering of Montreat. On Saturday, the Warriors came up just short at Lee University, losing 95-85 to the 6th-ranked NAIA squad in the nation. Gillard (23 points) and Smith (22 points, 10 assists) had big nights as Southern Wesleyan asserted its status as a contender in the SSAC.
UNC Asheville’s offensive woes on Saturday can be attributed to the stifling defense of Charlotte, which enjoyed a substantial size advantage over the Bulldogs. The much more porous defense of Southern Wesleyan will give the Bulldogs an opportunity to get the offense on track as they begin to gear up for conference play. The game tips off at 7 p.m.
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