2001-02 Men's Basketball

2001-2002 Laker Season

Clayton State head coach Gibbons fills final 2002 recruiting spot

Morrow, GA--June 17, 2002 --- With the signing of Jayson Byrd, and the announcement of the resigning of redshirt transfer Jerry Edwards, the 2002 Clayton College & State University men's basketball recruiting class is complete.

Fresh off its first-ever Peach Belt Conference championship in 2001-02, Clayton State will defend its title with a cast of five returning lettermen, three Division I and II transfers, four junior college transfers and three incoming high school players.

"Our goal was to sign starting caliber players at four position areas and improve our depth and we have accomplished that," said head coach Gordon Gibbons, the third-winningest active coach in Division II. "We are continuing to build a solid national contender on a year in-and-year out basis."

Byrd, a 6-foot-5 guard, joins the Lakers after starring at Pasco/Hernando Community College in Florida. He averaged over 12 points per contest and led all Florida junior college guards, averaging almost eight rebounds per game.

"Jason is a big guard who can play any position on the floor," said Gibbons. "His versatility and production led him to being named the team's MVP in one of the top Florida junior college programs."

An All-Suncoast Conference selection in his sophomore campaign, he led his team to the junior college Final Four in his freshman season, as well as being named the team MVP.

"He was the leading rebounder at the state of Florida junior college level from the guard position," said Gibbons. "He has the ability to score and defend."

Gibbons also announces the resigning of Florida Southern transfer Jerry Edwards. After sitting out last season, the 6-5 guard/forward was a highly touted high school standout at Gainesville High School in Florida. He helped lead the school to back-to-back state championships.

"Jerry was a two-time all-state performer and MVP of the Southern Hoops All-Star Classic," said Gibbons. "He has competed at an extremely high level. He practiced with the team last year and will make an immediate impact this season."

In addition to Byrd and Edwards, the Lakers signed nine players earlier this spring for the 2002-03 season.

In the front court, where Clayton State must replace Jerry Johnson, Kareen Harris and John Jowers, the Lakers signed Stetson University's Craig Butts, Indian River Community College's Leon Parker and Middle Georgia College's Steven Cox.

A Division I transfer and a standout at Jenkins High School in Savannah, Butts was named the 2000 Savannah Morning News Player of the Year. As a senior, he averaged 21 points and nine rebounds, leading his team to a 21-8 record.

Parker, a 6-6, 205 lb., forward from Miami, FL, joins Clayton State after two seasons at Indian River Community College. He led the squad to the Florida State junior college finals after averaging 12 points, eight rebounds, two blocks and two steals on the season. He was named the team's top defensive player both his freshman and sophomore seasons.

A 6-8, 210 lb., forward/center from Atlanta, GA, Cox will join the Lakers after averaging 10 points and six rebounds and helping his Middle Georgia team to the state junior college finals. His top game came against Coastal Georgia, scoring 19 points and pulling 10 rebounds against the Georgia Junior College State Championship team.

The loss in the backcourt of Charlie Frazier, Jr., and Jay Gibbons will be softened with the arrival of Arkansas State University's Jonathan Reed and Middle Georgia's Kevin Young along with the addition of Byrd and Edwards to the mix.

A 6-0, 175 lb., guard from El Reno, OK, Reed joins Clayton State after a successful season at ASU last year. He was second on the Division I team in assists and third in steals. His top game came against NCAA Division I Tournament team Western Kentucky, scoring 10 points, dishing off six assists and grabbing five steals. Prior to last season, he led Cedar Valley Community College to the NJCAA National Championship with a 28-5 record.

Young, a 6-1, 175 lb., guard from Atlanta, GA, will join Clayton State after leading Middle Georgia to the Georgia State Junior College finals. He was named to the first team All-State Tournament team after scoring 26 points and dishing off nine assists in its win over nationally-ranked Georgia Perimeter College in the state semifinals. He averaged 12 points, five assists, while shooting 36 percent from 3-point territory.

Three Georgia high school standouts complete the class as Upson Lee High School's Dante Dawson, Norcross High School's Kavoris Bivins and Riverwood High School's Kevin Thomas add potential and promise to the class.

Dawson, a 5-10, 170 lb. guard, from Thomaston, GA, joins the Lakers after starting three years at Upson-Lee High School. He was named to the All-Region team this year and named Co-Most Valuable Player, averaging 12 points, seven assists and three steals.

A 6-6, 200 lb., forward from Norcross, Bivins comes to the Clayton State after leading his Norcross High School team to a 22-7 record and a top-10 ranking for the entire season in the state's highest classification. Kavoris had 16 points and 12 rebounds in Norcross' win over Morrow High School, its only loss of the season.

Thomas, a 6-foot-6 forward from Atlanta, GA, will join Clayton State after leading Riverwood High School to a 20-8 record this season and a state tournament appearance. He was named to the All-North Fulton first team and is the school's career leader in rebounds per game and blocked shots per game.

Clayton State graduated six seniors off last year's 19-9 team, including four starters and one of the team's top reserves. The senior group led the team to its first ever PBC championship after never having a winning mark in the PBC in its four previous seasons.

"We will miss this senior class, but we will always remember this class as the one that got the program moving in the right direction," said Gibbons. "It is now the job of our returning players, including our five seniors, to keep the tradition alive."

PBC champion Lakers sign eight
players for 2002-03 season

Morrow, GA--May 13, 2002 --- Fresh off its first-ever Peach Belt Conference championship in 2001-02, the Clayton College & State University men's basketball program is putting the final touches on its 2002 recruiting class, hoping this class will help continue the tradition of championship basketball in the Southern Crescent.

Head coach Gordon Gibbons' class is comprised of five college transfers, which includes three junior college and two Division I players, and three incoming freshmen. He also says that one more transfer will join this group along with highly touted redshirt sophomore Jerry Edwards.

"This class begins an effort to balance our roster with three or four athletes per grade level," said Gibbons, the third-winningest active coach in Division II. "It may take us another two classes for true balance, but we are continuing on our way to building a solid national contender on a year in and year out basis."

In the front court, where Clayton State must replace Jerry Johnson, Kareen Harris and John Jowers, the Lakers signed Craig Butts, a transfer from Division I Stetson University, Indian River Community College's All-State performer Leon Parker and Middle Georgia College's Steven Cox, a member of MGC's state finalist squad.

The loss in the back court of Charlie Frazier, Jr., and Jay Gibbons will be softened with the arrival of Jonathan Reed, a transfer from Division I Arkansas State University, and Middle Georgia's Kevin Young, also a member of MGC's state finalist squad. Redshirt Edwards and possibly another transfer will be added to the mix in the backcourt.

"Our goal was to sign starting caliber players at four position areas and improve our depth," said Gibbons. "We feel we have accomplished that."

Six of the 10 newcomers are from Georgia, the Lakers' recruiting base, says Gibbons, however, Clayton State will continue to recruit nationally with the obvious attraction of our beautiful campus and the city of Atlanta.

"I want to commend my assistant coaches Cory Baldwin and Brent Buchanan for an outstanding job in putting together this class," said Gibbons.

Butts, a 6-foot-6, 230 lb., forward from Savannah, GA, will enter the program as a junior and have an immediate impact after beginning his career at Stetson.

A standout at Jenkins High School in Savannah, he was named the 2000 Savannah Morning News Player of the Year. As a senior, he averaged 21 points and nine rebounds, leading his team to a 21-8 record. He was named first-team All-Coastal Empire as a junior and a senior.

"Craig is a powerful athlete who has the ability and skill to play all frontcourt positions," said Gibbons. "He can score inside and out and is an excellent defender and rebounder."

A 6-0, 175 lb., guard from El Reno, OK, Reed joins Clayton State after a successful season at Arkansas State University last year. He was second on the Division I team in assists and third in steals last year. His top game came against NCAA Division I Tournament team Western Kentucky, scoring 10 points, dishing off six assists and grabbing five steals.

Prior to playing at ASU, Reed led Cedar Valley Community College to the NJCAA National Championship with a 28-5 record. He averaged 10 points and seven assists and was named to the All-Metro Conference team his freshman and sophomore seasons.

"Jonathan brings leadership, experience and character to our squad," said Gibbons. "He has the ability and mentality to play both the point and the No. 2 guard. Jonathan will an important leader on this team."

Young, a 6-1, 175 lb., guard from Atlanta, GA, will join Clayton State after leading Middle Georgia to the Georgia State Junior College finals. He was named to the first team All-State Tournament team after scoring 26 points and dishing off nine assists in its win over nationally ranked Georgia Perimeter College in the state semifinals.

Kevin averaged 12 points, five assists and shot 36 percent from 3-point territory. He was a two-year starter at Marietta's Sprayberry High School for coach Roger Kuam.

"Kevin's intangibles at the point are needed as we replace all our ball-handling guards," said Gibbons. "He has the ability to make his teammates better, the knack of knocking down that big shot or making the big play. Kevin will help run this team."

A 6-8, 210 lb., forward/center from Atlanta, GA, Cox will also join the Lakers after starring at Middle Georgia. A teammate of Young, he averaged 10 points and six rebounds on the state finalist squad.

His top game came against Coastal Georgia, scoring 19 points and pulling 10 rebounds against the Georgia Junior College State Championship team. Cox was also named to the Golden Isle Classic All-Tournament Team. He played high school in Peachtree City at McIntosh High School for coach Steve Hale.

"Steven has an excellent 15-to-18 foot jump shot and solid moves in the post," said Gibbons. "He will give us depth and experience in the front court."

A 6-6, 205 lb., forward from Miami, FL, Parker joins Clayton State after two seasons at Indian River Community College. He led the squad to the Florida State junior college finals after averaging 12 points, eight rebounds, two blocks and two steals on the season. He was named the team's top defensive player both his freshman and sophomore seasons.

Parker, a teammate of current Laker Jamal Johnson at Indian River, was named the team's Most Valuable Player this season, to the All-Florida Junior College Southern Conference team and to the Ball-Stars North/South All-Star game. In high school, he led his Miami-Pace team to the state championship.

"Leon is a versatile player, who has always played on championship-level teams, said Gibbons. "He will help us fill the voids of graduation."

He was named to the Henry County Classic and Upson-Lee Roundball All-Tournament teams and led his team to a ranking as high as 10^th during the regular season.

"Dante has run the show for coach Tracy Caldwell's Upson-Lee teams for three years," said Gibbons. "He has the potential to be an outstanding point guard in the Peach Belt Conference."

Bivins, a Gwinett County Scholar Athlete, averaged 10 points and 10 rebounds a game after transferring from Booker T. Washington High School.

"K.B. is an excellent all-around player with a tremendous upsize," said Norcross head coach Dave Corder. "He will continue to develop into an outstanding college forward."

Coached by former Clayton State men's assistant and Morrow High School coach Mark Carroll, Thomas averaged 11 points and 12 rebounds per game.

"Kevin is one of the most improved post players in metro-Atlanta," said Carroll. "He has the potential to make an impact defensively, evidenced by his 21-rebounds to go along with six blocks in a region game. He has a chance to become an outstanding college player."

###CCSU###

KSU shocks Clayton State to advance to PBC Tournament Finals

Game Stats
COLUMBUS, GA. - Kennesaw State University erased a 17-point second half deficit to upset Clayton State, the North Divison’s top seeded team, 72-69, in semifinal round action at the Peach Belt Conference Men’s Tournament at the Frank G. Lumpkin Jr. Center on the campus of Columbus State University.

KSU (20-9), the South’s No. 3-seed, will advance to the PBC championship game for the first time in school history and play either Augusta State or host Columbus State on Sunday at 4 p.m.

After taking a 38-30 lead into halftime, Clayton State (19-9) extended its advantage to 17 points early in the second half when senior forward Kareen Harris had consecutive steals and layups to start an 11-0 scoring run and a 53-38 Laker lead with 13:37 left to play in the game. Clayton State maintained a 17-point lead, 60-43, when the Owls began to chip away the lead. KSU cut the margin to 63-52 with five minutes to play in the game when senior forward Hala Kaufusi scored four straight points to start the Owls on a 14-3 run that tied the game at 66-66 with 1:29 remaining on a Kaufusi baseline driving layup.

After Clayton State senior guard Jay Gibbons fouled on a charging call, Kaufusi was fouled on a 3-point attempt and made all three free throws for a 69-66 edge with 50 ticks left on the clock. Senior forward Kareen Harris had a chance to bring the Lakers within two points with 39 seconds to go, but missed on a pair of free throws. With the score 70-67, Clayton junior forward Jamal Johnson rebounded another Harris missed free throw which senior guard Charlie Frazier turned into two of his game-high 28 points and bring the Lakers within one point, 70-69, with 17 seconds remaining.

After KSU sophomore guard Golden Ingle made one of two free throws to put the Owls up 71-69, Frazier drove a wide open baseline for what appeared to be an easy two points, but the ball lipped over the rim and was rebounded by Ingle, who made one of his two final foul shots for the final points of the game and KSU first win in three games this season.

Ingle and Kaufusi each scored 16 to lead KSU while senior guard Ed Womack, who received First Team All-PBC honors earlier in the day, had 15 points. Frazier finished 4-of-5 from 3-point range, finished with a game-high 28 points and Harris scored 11 to lead Clayton State.

Post game comments

Clayton State head coach Gordon Gibbons
“I don’t think we could have played any better. No lead is safe, you see it all the time. We were in terrible foul trouble, had we not had that, I think we could have finished the game off.”

“I think we did a very poor job of guarding in the post. But we went one-on-one because Tony (Ingle) had his best shooting guards in there. It seemed like one of those games where, down the stretch, everything went right for them and nothing went right for us.”

CCSU’s Charlie Frazier
“I thought we had a chance to take the team, and the school, to a higher level, and we did. But we had a chance to take it to even a higher level and we didn’t. It’s very tough, but life is as well.”

Kennesaw State head coach Tony Ingle
“We were here to win a basketball game, its possession by possession. You can’t score 17 points in one play. They played great defense, several things have to happen your way. We have a lot of weapons and you never know what you’re going to need. It was a great team effort.”

(On losing to Clayton State twice in the regular season): “A fool lives in the past, a wise man lives in the future. The greatest rewards in life are for those who forget the past.”

“This may sound crazy, but I never, not one time, throught we were going to not win this game. I’m like an old mule with blinders on, I can’t look left or right, just straight ahead.”

KSU’s Edderick Womack
(On the turning point in the game): “In the second half, we got more momentum, and we they kind of shut down. We started pressing, and things started happening for us.”

KSU’s Hala Kaufusi
“We got two or three defensive stops in a row, and when our defense stepped up, I knew we would win.”

Lakers defeat USCA; advance to PBC Tournament semifinals Sat.

Game Stats
Columbus, GA—March 1, 2001---In a season of "firsts" for the Clayton College & State University men's basketball team, the Lakers accomplished another one Friday.

The Peach Belt Conference regular season champions won their opening PBC Tournament contest defeating the University of South Carolina Aiken 77-61 in the quarterfinals, advancing to the school's first-ever PBC Tournament semifinal contest. The win at the Frank G. Lumpkin Jr. Center on the campus of Columbus State University, is only the school's second PBC Tournament victory in Laker history, CCSU's other win came in 1998 against Lander.

Clayton State (19-8) will return to the court on Friday, facing South Division rival Kennesaw State University in a 6:30 p.m. contest. CCSU, the South No. 1 seed, swept KSU, the South's No. 3 seed, in the regular season series 2-0, winning the first game 76-56 and the second one 76-55.

“Our confidence level was high coming into the tournament, but after tonight, I think it has rose to another level," said Friday's high scorer and rebounder Kareen Harris. "We will have to keep believing in coach (Gordon Gibbons) and keep on working hard.”

In Friday's win, forward Harris scored a game-high 24 points and senior forward Jerry Johnson added 21 points en route to the 16-point victory. Along with game-high points, Harris also pulled a game high 13 rebounds, while hitting 11-of-12 from the free throw line. Johnson hit 6-of-10 from the field, including a trio of 3-pointers and went 6-of-6 from the line.

With the game tied at 18-18 after the first eight minutes of play, Harris sparked an 8-0 Laker run before Aiken closed the gap to 28-27 with 6:18 remaining in the first half.

Clayton State then rolled off 10 unanswered points and held a 39-29 lead before Pacer senior guard Clint Keown, who set a PBC Tournament individual scoring record with 42 points in Wednesday’s first round overtime win over North Florida, scored seven of his 20 first half points in the final two minutes to bring Aiken within 43-37 at halftime.

“The second half may have been one of our better halves of the season," said head Clayton State coach Gordon Gibbons. "I thought we came out poised after Clint (Keown) had a big first half. He is an All-American type player.

“We didn’t give up a lot of second chance points, and I think that was a key. We also held them to 24 percent from the field in the second half.”

Said USCA coach Mike Roberts, “I just thought today in the first half, we turned the ball over too much and didn’t rebound. Those two areas hurt us.“In the second half, we were more aggressive over the course of the 40-minute game. Their pressure and aggressiveness wore us down.”

The Lakers controlled most of the second half, extending its lead to 54-42 with 12 minutes remaining and maintained a double-digit lead throughout the game’s final 11 minutes.

Clayton State held its biggest lead of the game at 68-48 with 6:48 left and held Keown scoreless in the second half until only 3:27 was left on the clock for his only bucket of the period.

“We went into the game with a plan of trying to wear down Clint (Keown) and Eric (Dugans) down," said Gibbons. "In the second half, he (Clint) only had two points, and I think a lot of that had to do with fatigue.”

Senior guard Charlie Frazier finished with 11 points and senior forward John Jowers came off the bench for 10 points to round out four Lakers in double-figure scoring.

Keown shot 9-of-26 from the field, including 2-of-14 from 3-point range and finished with 22 points to lead the Pacers while junior guard Eric Dugans scored 12.

“He’s running around screens and moves well without the ball," said Frazier on holding Keown to two second half points." But through preparation, we were ready for their screens and were able to overcome it, but it wasn’t an easy task.”

Said Keown, “I was getting good looks, it was just a case of a good team beating us.”

In the win, Clayton State shot only 36 percent (23-of-60) from the field but converted at the free throw line, hitting 27-of-32 for 84 percent. After the shooting 56 percent (15-of-27) from the field in the first half, the Lakers held the Pacers to 24 percent shooting (8-of-33) in the second half as USCA finished the game at 38 percent (23-of-60).

USCA won the battle on the boards 44-37 but committed 13 turnovers compared to eight for Clayton State.

##CCSU##

Lakers win Peach Belt

Matt Watt, Sports Information

Game Stats
Morrow, GA—February 23, 2002---The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team had a perfect ending to its story book Peach Belt Conference season Saturday, defeating Francis Marion 83-79 to win the school's first-ever 2001-02 PBC Championship.

The Lakers were hoping for a win, coupled with an Augusta State loss at USC-Aiken and that is exactly what they got as the USCA upset Augusta State 65-61, giving Clayton State sole possession of the PBC Championship. The Augusta State (19-7; 14-5) loss dropped the Jaguars one game behind the Lakers.

The win improves Clayton State to 18-8 on the year, and 15-4 in the conference, while Francis Marion falls to 4-22 on the year and 2-17 in the Peach Belt.

The Lakers have earned a first-round bye in the upcoming Peach Belt Conference Tournament at Columbus State University and will play the winner of the first round matchup between North Florida and USC Aiken. The men will be playing at 5 p.m. Friday, March 1 in Columbus.

Despite the Lakers having several leads of ten points or more in the second half, the outside shooting of Francis Marion kept the game close. Four three-pointers over a six-minute span cut into the Laker lead as the last Patriot trey by Jon Houston (Easley, SC) cut the deficit to four points, 81-77, with 3:03 left in regulation. That was as close as Francis Marion would get though.

Two key plays down the stretch, which countered the Patriot attack and help lead the Lakers to victory were aggressive steals by seniors Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA) and Charlie Frazier, Jr. (Brunswick, GA) and ensuing give-and-go baskets by the pair.

During the first half the Lakers went on an 18-7 run over a five-minute stretch just two minutes into the game to build a 22-11 lead with 12:43 left in the half. Francis Marion bounced back and narrowed the Clayton State lead to four at the intermission 45-41.

Clayton State had a well-balanced scoring attack as five Lakers finished in double figures. Frazier led the attack with 17 points, followed by Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) with 13, Johnson with 11, Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) with 10 and junior Jamal Johnson with 15. Junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA) pulled 10 rebounds.

Senior Rod Stevenson ( Detroit, MI) led Francis Marion with a game-high 25 points, while freshman Louis McCullough (Goose Creek, SC) snatched 15 rebounds.

This game featured a strong defensive effort by the Lakers as they limited the Patriots to 39 percent shooting from the field in the second half. The squad forced 22 turnovers, while committing a season low eight turnovers.

Lakers fall to Lander at buzzer 68-66

Game Stats
Greenwood, SC—February 20, 2001--The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team had a chance to sew up at least a share of the Peach Belt Conference title Wednesday but was denied on a buzzer-beater by Lander's Terry Delaney.

Delaney drilled a 3-pointer from the top of the key as the buzzer sounded, capping a 21-point comeback that gave the Senators a 68-66 victory over Clayton State. The Lakers led 59-38 with 9:41 remaining in the contest before Lander went on a scoring frenzy, outscoring the Lakers 30-7 over the remainder of the game.

Junior Adrian Penland (Flowery Branch, GA) led the Senator comeback, hitting 5-of-6 shots from 3-point land. In the second half comeback, Lander shot 62 percent from 3-point land, hitting 8-of-13 from behind the arc. The squad shot 52 percent from the field (15-of-29) in the second half.

With the loss, Clayton State drops to 17-8 overall and 14-4 in the league, while Lander improves to 10-15 overall and 6-12 in the league. Clayton State will have another chance to secure at least a share of the Peach Belt Conference on Saturday, hosting Francis Marion on Saturday for "Senior Day." The men's game will begin at 4 p.m.

In Wednesday game, the Lakers jumped out to an early lead and took its largest first half advantage of 12 points, 32-20, on a three-pointer by Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL). The Lakers led by seven points, 34-27, at halftime. Senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) led Clayton State in the first half with 14 points, hitting 6-of-9 from the field.

To open the second half, the Lakers outscored Lander 25-11 and took its largest lead of 21 points, 59-38, with 9:41 remaining on a three-point play by senior Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA).

In the loss, Clayton State shot its second highest field goal percentage of the season at 52 percent, hitting 28-of-54 from the field. Lander finished the game at 42 percent from the field, hitting 22-of-52 and 46 percent (11-of-24) from 3-point range.

For Clayton State, Harris finished with 14 points, followed by senior Charlie Frazier, Jr (Brunswick, GA) with 12 points, junior Jamal John11son (Columbus, GA) with 11 points and senior John Jowers (London, England) with 10 points.

Penland led Lander with 25 points, hitting 9-of-18 from the field, 5-of-10 from 3-point land and 2-of-2 from the free throw line. Freshman Tony Ferris (Albury, Australia) finished with 11 points and 11 rebounds, followed by senior Tally Loyd (Helsingborg, Sweden) with 11 points and six boards. Freshman Delaney (Cookeville, TN) also finished with 11 points.

Lander won the battle on the boards, outrebounding the Lakers 31-29, but committed 13 turnovers compared to 11 for Clayton State.

##CCSU##

Clayton State wins in OT vs. North Florida 86-82;
remains atop PBC standings at 14-4
MATT WATT, Sports Information

Game Stats
Morrow, GA—February 16, 2002---The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team retained possession of the Peach Belt Conference's top record Saturday evening, defeating PBC South Division opponent the University of North Florida 86-82 in overtime in front of a roaring crowd.

Momentum swayed back and forth the entire game but especially during the second half where there were eight ties. North Florida went on an 11-0 spurt in the middle of the second half and built a 67-56 advantage with eight minutes left in regulation. After holding onto the bulk of their lead over the next two minutes, the Lakers began to make their run as they tied up the match at 72-72 with 3:31 left in regulation.

Two steals down the stretch, a three-point play by Charlie Frazier, Jr. (Brunswick, GA), and a free throw by Harris Skoutaris (Athens, Greece) gave the Lakers a three-point lead, 76-73, with 2:42 remaining.

However, a foul on a Osprey 3-point shooter, Koran Godwin (Roselle, NJ), down the stretch with 57 seconds left was crucial as Godwin tied up the game, hitting all three free throws and sending the game into overtime.

Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) was all over the court for the Lakers in the extra session as he scored five points and pulled down four rebounds. A pair of free throws with 13 seconds left by Harris and a pair with four seconds left by Jerry Johnson

(Riverdale, GA) sealed the victory and retained Clayton State's first place status in the Peach Belt.

Paving the way for victory, Harris scored 23 points, followed by Frazier with 18. Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA) chipped in 12, while Harris and John Jowers (London, England) each pulled down seven rebounds. The Lakers' tough defense forced nineteen turnovers by North Florida compared to only 11 for Clayton State.

The Ospreys were led by Godwin and Donny Lotz (New Port Richey, FL) each scoring 20 points. Jo Jo Cadray (Atlanta, GA) scored 16 points, while Lotz led the team on the boards with eight rebounds.

With the victory, the Lakers are assured of at least a tie of the Peach Belt South Division crown but will win the title outright with a victory at Lander University Wednesday, February 20 or a win at home against Francis Marion next Saturday afternoon.

Also with a victory, the Lakers will be a No. 1 seed in the upcoming Peach Belt Conference Tournament in Columbus and with two wins, the squad would clinch the outright Peach Belt Conference regular season championship.

After Wednesday's game at Lander, the Lakers will return home on Saturday, February 23 for its home finale, "Senior Night." CCSU will face Francis Marion in a 4 p.m. contest.

##CCSU##

Clayton State defeats USC Spartanburg
71-66; atop PBC standings at 13-3

Matt Watt, Sports Information

Game Stats
Morrow, GA-February 13, 2002---The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team kept its hold on the best record in the Peach Belt Conference Wednesday, defeating PBC North Division opponent the University of South Carolina Spartanburg 71-66 in Morrow.

The Lakers seemed to have a comfortable 12-point lead, 66-54, on the second of two free throws by senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) with 1:27 remaining only to have USCS inch back into the game in the final seconds. A three-pointer by the USC Spartanburg's Eric Murrrell with 49 seconds left cut the deficit to six points, 68-62.

The Lakers, however, hit just enough of free throws down the stretch, connecting on 3-of-7 attempts and kept the contest a two-possession game, holding USCS to only a basket and two free throws in the final 33 seconds. Harris, senior Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA) and junior Harris Skoutaris (Athens, Greece) all hit big free throws down the stretch to seal the victory.

With the win, the Lakers remain atop the Peach Belt Conference with a 13-3 record, pushing its overall mark to 16-7. The loss drops USC Spartanburg to 8-15 overall and 5-11 in the PBC. The Lakers will continue their PBC home stand on Saturday, hosting the University of North Florida in a 4 p.m. game. The Lakers defeated UNF 72-66 earlier this season.

In Wednesday game, the Lakers jumped out to an early first half lead, thanks to sharp-shooting from the perimeter. CCSU took a 14-point lead with 7:50 remaining in the first half after a steal by Johnson that led to a senior Charlie Frazier, Jr., (Brunswick, GA) lay-up. The team shot a sizzling 59 percent (16-of-27) from the field in the first half and led 35-27 at intermission.

USCS answered in the second half, outscoring the Lakers 16-8 in the first eight minutes of the period. A three-point play by sophomore Kevin Harrington (Bleckley, WV) at the 11:52 mark cut the deficit to 43-42.

The Lakers came back with a run their own, beginning at the 7:45 mark with a dunk by senior John Jowers (London, England) off a rebound, giving the team a three point, 49-46 lead. The team outscored the Rifles 19-8 over the next six minutes, setting up the final minute of the contest.

Clayton State shot 49 percent (24-of-49) from the field, 30 percent (3-of-10) from 3-point range and 63 percent (20-of-32) from the free throw line. The Rifles shot 40 percent (18-of-45) from the field, 40 percent (6-of-15) from 3-point territory and 89 percent (24-of-27) from the free throw line.

Harris led the Lakers with 18 points, followed by Johnson with 11 points and six rebounds. Junior Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA) and Jowers each chipped in eight points.

For the Rifles junior Curtis Blair (Chicago, IL) led all scorers with 20 points, hitting 7-of-15 from the field, including 5-of-9 from 3-point land and 1-of-1 from the free throw line. Junior Dave Diebel added 17 points, hitting 4-of-8 from the field and 9-of-9 from the free throw line.

The Lakers won the battle on the boards, outrebounding the Rifles 32-28 and committed only 10 turnovers compared to 14 for USCS.

##CCSU###

Clayton State defeats AASU 70-54;
improves to PBC South Div. best 12-3

Game Stats
Savannah, GA---February 9, 2002--- The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team ran pushed its Peach Belt Conference unbeaten road steak to nine games Saturday, defeating conference foe Armstrong Atlantic State University 70-54.

The win, Clayton State's first ever at AASU, keeps the Lakers atop the PBC South Division and was the team's second win this season over the Pirates. Clayton State defeated AASU 67-59 last Monday.

Clayton State jumped out to an early lead and took a nine-point, 16-5, lead at the 14:49 mark on a basket by junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA). The Lakers extended their lead to 14 points, 39-25, at the end of the half on two free throws by senior Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA).

In the second half, the Lakers pushed its lead to as many as 23 points at the 6:08 mark of the half on a free throw by senior John Jowers (London, England) and kept their lead at least 16 points for the remainder of the game.

With the win, Clayton State improves to 15-7 overall and 12-3 in the league, AASU drops to 10-12 on the season and 6-9 in the league. The Lakers will return to the court on Wednesday, hosting USC Spartanburg in a 7:30 p.m. contest.

Clayton State shot 50 percent (25-of-50) from the field, a season best 54 percent (7-of-13) from 3-point land and 68 percent (13-of-19) from the free throw line. The Pirates shot 37 percent (20-of-53) from the floor, 23 percent (3-of-13) from 3-point territory and 73 percent (11-of-15) from the free throw line.

For Clayton State, senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) led the attack with 22 points, hitting 9-of-13 from the field, 2-of-2 from 3-point range and 2-of-3 from the free throw line. Senior Charlie Frazier, Jr., (Brunswick, GA) finished with 12 points and five rebounds, while Jerry Johnson chipped in nine points and had nine rebounds. Senior Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) had six points and seven assists, while Phenizee finished with eight points.

Willard Winn led AASU with 12 points and 13 rebounds, followed by Donta Humphries with 12 points.

AASU outrebounded the Lakers 33-32 but committed 17 turnovers compared to only 13 for the Lakers.

###CCSU###

Clayton State defeats GC&SU 65-62;
improves PBC South Division best 11-3

Game Stats
Milledgeville, GA---February 6, 2002--- The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team ran its Peach Belt Conference road winning streak to a perfect 8-0 on the season Wednesday, pulling out a 65-62 win over conference opponent Georgia College & State University in Milledgeville.

After trailing for more than nine minutes late in the second half, the Lakers reclaimed the lead 59-58 with 2:07 remaining in the contest on the second of two free throws by junior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ).

Junior GC&SU guard Rodney Keener (Lithonia, GA) answered the Laker basket at the 1:48 mark with a score, giving the Bobcats a 60-59 lead, but Clayton State came right back as junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA) hit a shot inside to give the team the lead for good with 1:36 remaining. Harris hit a layup and senior Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) hit two free throws to seal the victory in the final minute.

The win for Clayton State, the Peach Belt Conference South Division leader, avenges a loss to the Bobcats earlier this year in Morrow. The Lakers improve to 14-7 overall and 11-3 in the league, while the Bobcats drop to 13-8 and 8-6 in the league. CCSU will return to the court on Saturday, traveling to face Armstrong State in a 7:30 p.m. contest.

The contest was tight throughout, as neither team was unable to run out to a big lead. Clayton State took the largest lead of five points, 65-60 with 17 seconds remaining. The game featured 10 lead changes and 11 ties, including the halftime score of 29-29.

Clayton State shot 39 percent (20-of-52) from the field, 27 percent (3-of-11) from 3-point land and 67 percent (22-of-33) from the free throw line. The Bobcats shot 31 percent (18-of-58) from the floor, 20 percent (4-of-20) from 3-point territory and 73 percent (22-of-30) from the free throw line.

For Clayton State, Phenizee led the attack with a game high 17 points to go along with 11 boards and five blocks. He hit 5-of-8 from the field and 7-of-10 from the free throw line.

Behind Phenizee, Harris finished with 15 points and five rebounds, while Gibbons had eight points and eight assists. Senior Jerry Johnson chipped in eight points and six rebounds.

GC&SU's Duke Gibbs (Tifton, GA) led the Bobcat attack with 13 points, as the sophomore guard hit 3-of-3 from the field, 1-of-1 from 3-point land and 6-of-7 from the free throw line. Sophomore Daryl Ruffus (Marietta, GA) finished with 12 points and six rebounds, while junior Rodney Keener (Lithonia, GA) chipped in nine points.

###CCSU###

Clayton State men defeat AASU;
capture 10th PBC victory of season

Game Stats^{Morrow, GA-February 4, 2002---The Clayton
College & State University men's basketball team got off to a slow start
Monday but kicked into gear midway through the first half, en route to its 10th
Peach Belt Conference victory of the season, defeating Armstrong Atlantic State
University 67-59.}

^{Armstrong State jumped out to an early lead and led by as
many as 13 points, 19-6, on a three-pointer by senior Mick Jordan (Sarasota, FL)
at the 11:49 mark of the first half.}

^{Clayton State, the top team in the PBC South Division,
battled back into the game over the next six minutes, however, outscoring the
Pirates 20-7. The Lakers tied score at 26 apiece at the 5:45 mark on a 3-pointer
by senior Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL), and pushed their lead to five points,
37-32 at halftime.}

^{In the second half, the Lakers extended its lead to
double-digits on two different occasions. The squad led 46-36 at the 14:37 mark
on a basket by senior Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA) and by 10 points, 58-48,
with 5:48 remaining on the second of two free throws by Gibbons.}

^{AASU made one last run over the next three minutes and cut
the deficit to four points, 60-56, with 3:44 remaining before Clayton State
senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) hit a free throw, followed by Gibbons
draining a 3-pointer to seal the victory with an eight-point lead, 64-56, at the
2:08 mark.}

^{With the win, the Lakers improve to 13-7 overall and 10-3 in
the league, while Armstrong State drops to 11-9 overall and 6-7 in the league.
The Lakers will return to the court on Wednesday, traveling to Georgia College
& State University.}

^{Gibbons led the Lakers with 10 points and 10 assists, while
Jerry Johnson finished with 12 points and seven rebounds. Junior Jamal Johnson
(Columbus, GA) added 11 points and eight rebounds, followed by junior Mike
Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA) and senior Charlie Frazier, Jr., (Brunswick, GA) with
10 points apiece.}

^{For AASU, senior Donta Humphries (Statesboro, GA) finished
with a game high 16 points to go along with eight assists, followed by Mick
Jordan with 12 points.}

^{Clayton State shot 41 percent (20-of-49) from the field, 31
percent (5-of-16) from 3-point land and 71 percent (22-of-31) from the free
throw line. Armstrong shot 46 percent (20-of-44) from the field, 48 percent
(10-of-21) from 3-point territory and 69 percent (9-of-13) from the free throw
line.}

^{Clayton State controlled the boards, outrebounding the
Pirates 37-24 and committed only 12 turnovers compared to 15 for
AASU.}

Clayton State defeats FMU 76-69; remains
atop PBC South Division standings

Game Stats
Florence, SC—February 2, 2001---The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team snapped a three-game losing skid with a 76-69 win Saturday over Peach Belt Conference opponent Francis Marion University but not without a battle down the stretch.

The Lakers led 48-36 at halftime and by as many as 15 points, 53-38, at the 17:15 mark of the second half until the Patriots went on a 22-4 run over the next eight minutes to make the game interesting. A three-pointer by Rod Stevenson capped the run and gave Francis Marion a 3-point lead, 60-57 with 9:21 remaining in the game.

With the game tied at 63 apiece at the 6:07 mark, the Lakers clamped down on defense and held the Patriots scoreless for more than five minutes to retake control of the game. Clayton State took an eight-point lead, 71-63, with 49 seconds remaining on a basket by junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA). Seniors John Jowers (London, England) and Charlie Frazier, Jr., each drained two free throws in the finals seconds to seal the victory.

With the win, Clayton State remains atop the Peach Belt Conference South Division with a 12-7 overall and 9-3 record in the league, including a perfect 7-0 road PBC record. Francis Marion falls to 2-17 overall and 0-12 in the conference. The Lakers will return to the court on Monday, hosting Armstrong Atlantic State University in a 7:30 p.m. game.

The Lakers shot 44 percent (27-of-61) from the field, 21 percent (4-of-19) from 3-point land and 78 percent (18-of-23) from the free throw line. Francis Marion shot 46 percent (27-of-59) from the field, 44 percent (12-of-27) from 3-point range and 38 percent (3-of-8) from the free throw line.

Clayton State had a balanced scoring attack with four players in double-digits, led by senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) with 15 points. Phenizee finished with 14 points, followed by junior Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA) with 12 points and seven rebounds. Senior Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) chipped in 11 points and had six assists.

For Francis Marion, Geoff Gibson finished with 20 points and eight rebounds, followed by Jon Houston with 16 points and Stevenson with 12 points. Louis McCullough chipped in 10 points for the Patriots.

Each team finished with 34 rebounds and Francis Marion had 17 turnovers compared to 10 for Clayton State.

Clayton State falls
Columbus State 84-65

Game Stats
Morrow, GA-January 30, 2002--- Entering Wednesday's game against Clayton State, the Columbus State Cougars had struggled in its last few games shooting from the floor.

The Cougars, however, found their shooting touch, breaking out of their slump in a big way Wednesday, defeating Clayton State, the top team in the Peach Belt Conference South Division, 84-65, in Morrow.

Leading 37-29 at halftime, Columbus State outscored Clayton State 23-6 in the first nine minutes of the second half, taking a 60-42 lead with 11:08 remaining to seal the victory. The Cougars shot 50 percent (15-of-30) from the field in the half, including 43 percent (6-of-14) from three-point territory and 92 percent (11-of-12) from the line.

The CSU shooting outburst comes on the heels of Clayton State holding the Cougars to an all-time low 28 percent (21-of-76) from the field in a 64-60 win two weeks ago in Columbus.

With the loss, the Lakers drop to 11-7 overall and 8-3 in the conference, while Columbus State improves to 11-6 overall and 6-4 in the league. The Lakers will return to the court on Saturday, traveling to face PBC opponent Francis Marion University. CCSU will return home on Monday, Feb. 4, hosting PBC foe Armstrong Atlantic State University.

In the first half of Wednesday's game, the lead swapped hands several times in the first 15 minutes until Columbus State junior Cedric Howell (Butler, GA) drilled a 3-pointer with 4:12 remaining in the first half, giving the Cougars a 29-26 lead.

CSU extended its lead to eight points, 37-27, at halftime, outscoring the Lakers 8-1 over the final four minutes of the half. The Cougars led throughout the second half and pushed their lead to as many as 20 points on two different occasions.

The Lakers shot a season-low 31 percent (18-of-58) from the field, which included 35 percent (9-of-26) from 3-point range. CCSU did hit 87 percent (20-of-23) from the free throw line. Columbus finished at 46 percent (30-of-65) from the field, 40 percent (11-of-29) from 3-point range and 81 percent (13-of-16) from the free throw line.

Senior Charlie Frazier, Jr., (Brunswick, GA) led the Lakers with 17 points, hitting 5-of-10 from the field, 3-of-6 from 3-point range and 4-of-4 from the free throw line.

Junior Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA) had 13 points and 10 rebounds, while junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA) added 12 points and 10 rebounds. Senior Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) finished with eight points and eight assists.

For Columbus State, senior David Koncul (Savannah, GA) finished with 18 points, hitting 7-of-13 from the field, which included 3-of-8 from 3-point territory. Senior Travis Glover (Chattanooga, TN) added 15 points, followed by junior Derrick White (Laurel, MS) with 14 points and Howell with 12 points.

Columbus State outrebounded the Lakers 42-36 and committed only 12 turnovers compared to 14 for the Lakers.

####

Clayton State falls to
West Georgia 78-62

Game Stats
Morrow, GA—January 28, 2002--- The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team dropped its sixth game of the season of the season Monday, falling to non-conference foe the State University of West Georgia 78-62 in Morrow.

Leading by three points, 41-38, with 17:43 remaining in the game, the Braves outscored the Lakers 35-18 over the next 14 minutes to seal the victory. West Georgia led 38-33 at halftime.

With the win, West Georgia's second this season over the Lakers, the Braves improve to 13-5 on the year, while the loss drops Clayton State to 11-6. The Lakers will return to Peach Belt Conference action, hosting Columbus State University in a 7:30 p.m. game on Wednesday.

In Monday's game, the Lakers shot above their season average from the floor but were hampered by turnovers and poor foul shooting. The squad shot 45 percent (22-of-49) from the field, including 42 percent (5-of-12) from three-point land but committed 17 turnovers and shot only 54 percent (13-of-24) from the free throw line.

For Clayton State, senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) led the attack with 19 points, hitting 8-of-13 shots from the field. Junior Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA) added nine points, while senior Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA) finished with seven points and nine rebounds. Senior Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) had six points and six assists.

West Georgia finished at 43 percent (27-of-63) from the field, 44 percent (7-of-16) from three-point land and 57 percent (17-of-30) from the free throw line. The Braves committed only 11 turnovers and outrebounded the Lakers 39-37.

Senior Andy Young (New Philadelphia, OH) and senior Chezley Watson (Gainesville, GA) led the West Georgia attack with 15 points apiece. Watson hit 5-of-12 from the field, 1-of-1 from three-point territory and 4-of-4 from the free throw line, while Andy Young connected on 4-of-9 from the field, 4-of-8 from 3-point range and 3-of-3 from the free throw line.

Senior Dennis Long (Carrollton, GA) added 11 points and eight rebounds, while senior Anthony Moore (Somerville, TN) chipped in 10 points.

West Georgia leads in the all-time series against Clayton State 14-3.

###CCSU###

Clayton State falls
Augusta State 70-67

Matt Watt, Sports Information

Game Stats
Morrow, GA—January 26, 2002---It was a battle between the two top teams in the Peach Belt Conference Saturday that went down to the wire, but in the end, North Division leader Augusta State held off South Division leader Clayton State 70-67 at the Athletics & Fitness Center on the campus of Clayton College & State University.

The CCSU Lakers had a chance in the final seconds as ASU's Darrick Broddie (Augusta, GA) missed the second of two free throws with four seconds remaining, giving the Lakers a chance to tie with a 3-point basket. Junior Harris Skoutaris (Athens, Greece) grabbed the rebound and pushed it up the floor to senior Charlie Frazier, Jr., for an open three-pointer that rolled off the rim at the buzzer.

With the loss, the Lakers drop to 11-5 overall and 8-2 in the Peach Belt, while Augusta State improves to 13-4 overall and 8-2 in the league. The Lakers will return to the court on Monday, hosting the State University of West Georgia in a 7:30 p.m. game.

It was a game of halves for both teams Augusta State won the first half and took a 38-30 lead at intermission. The Jaguars shot 50 percent (14-of-28) from the field and a sizzling 54 percent (7-of-13) from 3-point land in the first 20 minutes. Letterance McFadden (Hemingway, S.C.), Chris Harriman (Sydney, Australia) and Gary Boodnikoff (Alice Springs, Australia), paced ASU in the first half as McFadden had 10 points and Harriman and Boodnikoff each hit a trio of 3-pointers for nine points apiece.

The Jaguars took their largest lead of the game, 38-27, with 1:35 remaining in the half on a basket by McFadden only to have Clayton State senior Marty Fears (Lithonia, GA) answer with a 3-pointer at the end of the half.

In the second half, the Lakers picked up the tempo and outscored ASU 37-32 behind nine points from senior Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA) and Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) and eight points form Frazier.

The Lakers outscored the Jaguars 15-6 in the first five minutes of the second half, taking a 45-44 lead on a basket by Johnson. After both teams swapped baskets back-and-forth for the next 10 minutes, ASU went on a mini-run at the six minute mark, pushing its lead to seven points, 61-54.

Clayton State came right back with a 3-pointer by Frazier to cut the deficit to four points, 61-57, with 4:49 remaining. In the last three minutes of the game, Augusta never led by more than three points and Clayton State had its chances to take the lead several times but was unable to capitalize.

For the game, Clayton State shot 43 percent (22-of-51) from the field, 28 percent (5-of-18) from 3-point range and 72 percent (18-of-25) from the free throw line. Augusta State shot 44 percent (21-of-48) from the field, 44 percent (11-of-25) from 3-point range and 71 percent (17-of-24) from the free throw line.

Harris led Clayton State with 15 points, hitting 5-of-12 from the field and 5-of-5 from the free throw line. Frazier finished with 14 points, hitting 4-of-9 from the field and 3-of-8 from 3-point territory. Johnson added 13 points, hitting 6-of-10 from the field and 1-of-4 from the line.

Junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA) chipped in nine points and had a team-high eight rebounds, while senior Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) finished with nine assists.

For Augusta State, Boodnikoff, finished with a game-high 25 points, hitting 7-of-17 from the field, including 6-of-13 from 3-point range. He also hit 5-of-6 from the free throw line. McFadden had 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Harriman also had 14 points, which included four 3-pointers.

Each team finished with 32 rebounds in the game and Augusta State committed 14 turnovers compared to 10 for the Lakers.

##CCSU##

First place Lakers defeat KSU 76-55

For video highlights of CCSU's win over KSU, click on the icon to the right

Game Stats
Morrow, GA—January 23, 2002---The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team, the top team in the Peach Belt Conference, notched its record eighth conference win of the season Wednesday against its biggest rival.

The Lakers defeated PBC foe Kennesaw State University 76-55 Wednesday at the Athletics & Fitness Center, improving to a PBC best record of 8-1. The win was the team's second this season over its north metro-Atlanta rival. The victory broke the CCSU school record for PBC wins in a season with 10 more league games remaining. It also snapped the Owls' seven-game winning streak.

Clayton State improves to 11-4 overall, while KSU drops to 9-6 overall and 6-3 in the conference. The Lakers will return to the court on Saturday, hosting the top team in the PBC North Division, Augusta State University. The game will begin at 4 p.m.

The Lakers raced out to an early lead, taking an 8-0 advantage in the first two minutes of Wednesday's game. Senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) opened the contest with two baskets, followed by baskets from senior Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA) and senior Charlie Frazier (Brunswick, GA).

CCSU pushed its lead to double-digits, 17-5, at the 15:37 mark as Johnson drilled the second of two consecutive three-pointers. Clayton State took an 18-point lead at the 5:25 mark on a three-pointer by sophomore Kennon Taylor (Rex, GA).

The Lakers took their largest lead of the half of 20 points, 36-16, with less than a minute remaining on a basket by Frazier only to have KSU answer with a basket by sophomore Golden Ingle (Orem, UT). The Lakers led 36-18 at intermission.

In the second half, the Lakers extended its lead to 21 points, 42-21, in the first three minutes on a basket by Johnson and kept its lead at least 20 points for the remainder of the game. Clayton State took its largest lead of 29 points, 52-23, at the 14:30 mark on a basket by Frazier.

The Lakers shot a season high 56 percent (29-of-52) from the floor, including 67 percent (14-of-21) in the second half. The team shot 43 percent (6-of-14) from three-point range and 57 percent (12-of-21) from the free throw line. KSU shot 36 percent (20-of-55) from the field, 17 percent (3-of-18) from three-point territory and 63 percent (12-of-19) from the free throw line.

The Lakers had a balanced scoring attack with four players in double-digits, led by Johnson with 19 points. He hit 8-of-10 from the field, 2-of-2 from 3-point range and 1-of-2 from the free throw line. Johnson also had six rebounds and three steals.

Frazier chipped in 17 points to go along, seven rebounds and six assists. He connected on 8-of-9 from the field and 1-of-2 from three-point range. Junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA) had 16 points, followed by Harris with 11 points.

For KSU, junior Prentice Gates (Gary, IA) led the attack with 16 points, hitting 7-of-13 from the field and 2-of-3 from the free throw line.

Clayton State outrebounded the Owls 38-28 and committed 14 turnovers compared to 13 for KSU.

##CCSU##

Clayton State defeats UNCP 73-57;
improves to 7-1 in PBC atop league standings

Game Stats
Pembroke, NC---January 19, 2002---The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team ran its Peach Belt Conference best record to 7-1 on the season Saturday with a 73-57 victory over the University of North Carolina Pembroke.

Clayton State jumped out to an early lead in the game and never looked back. The Lakers led 38-23 at halftime and outscored the Braves 35-34 in the second half for the 16-point win.

With the win, the Lakers improved to 10-4 overall and 7-1 in the league, while UNC Pembroke dropped to 7-9 overall and 3-6 in the conference. The Lakers will return to the court on Wednesday, hosting Kennesaw State in a 7:30 p.m. contest.

Clayton State shot 45 percent (25-of-56) from the field, including 50 percent (12-of-24) in the second half. The squad hit 43 percent (12-of-28) from three point territory and a season best 92 percent (11-of-12) from the free throw line.

The Lakers had a balanced attack, led by a "double-double" from junior Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA) with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Johnson hit 5-of-8 from the field, 1-of-3 from three-point territory and 5-of-5 from the line.

Behind Johnson, senior Charlie Frazier, Jr., finished with 15 points, hitting 5-of-9 from the field, 3-of-6 from three-point land and 2-of-2 from the free throw line. Senior Jay Gibbons finished with 11 points and six assists, including a trio of three-pointers. Senior Kareen Harris also chipped in 10 points.

Pembroke shot 36 percent (19-of-53) from the floor, 31 percent from 3-point territory (10-of-32) and 90 percent (9-of-10) from the free throw line.

For the Braves, Sean Davis finished with 18 points, hitting 6-of-10 from three-point territory. David Siebrands chipped in 10 points.

Clayton State won the battle on the boards, outrebounding the Braves 35-31 and committed 16 turnovers compared to 18 for Pembroke.

###CCSU###

Clayton State defeats CSU 64-60;
takes over 1^st place in PBC South Division

Game Stats
Columbus, GA---January 16, 2002--- It was a showdown between the two top teams in the Peach Belt Conference South Division, and in the end, the Clayton College & College State University men's basketball team came out victorious.

The Lakers defeated Columbus State University 64-60 Wednesday at CSU's Lumpkin Center, taking over place in the PBC South Division. The Lakers, off to their best start ever in the PBC, improved to 9-4 overall and 6-1 in the league, while Columbus State dropped to 9-4 and 4-2 in the conference. Clayton State also improved to a perfect 5-0 on the road.

CCSU will return to the court on Saturday, traveling to face PBC opponent UNC Pembroke for a 4 p.m. contest.

After the lead swapped hands several times in the first 10 minutes, the Lakers took the lead for good at the 9:33 mark of the first half, 16-14, on a basket by senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ). Harris led the Laker attack in the first half, scoring 15 of his season high 27 points in the game.

In the second half, Clayton State led by 14 points as late as the 11:44 mark on a basket by Harris, 47-33, before the Cougars made a late run. Columbus State cut the deficit to five points, 49-44, at the 7:39 mark on a three-pointer by Jon Antonelli but that was as close the Cougars would come until a three-pointer in the final five seconds by CSU cut the deficit to four points.

En route to his 27 points, Harris hit 8-of-19 from the field and converted 11-of-11 from the free throw line. He also added eight rebounds and two steals. Senior Charlie Frazier, Jr., finished with 10 points, while junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA) chipped in nine points and had a game-high 12 rebounds.

Clayton State shot 36 percent (20-of-56) from the field and 72 percent (23-of-32) from the free throw line. Columbus State shot 28 percent (21-of-76) from the floor and 56 percent (10-of-18) from the free throw line.

For Columbus State, Desmond Timmons finished with 11 points and six rebounds, while Derrick White chipped in 10 points.

Clayton State won the battle on the boards, outrebounding the Cougars 57-41 but did commit 21 turnovers compared to only 11 for the Columbus State.

###CCSU###

CCSU defeats North Florida 72-66 Sat.;
to travel to Columbus State Wed.

Game Stats
Jacksonville, FL---January 12, 2002--- The Clayton College & State University men's basketball sprinted out to a 46-29 halftime lead against the University of North Florida Saturday and even pushed its lead to as many as 26 points in the first four minutes of the second half only to have to hold on in the end.

But in the end, the Lakers hit their free throws, connecting on 4-of-4 in the final seconds to seal a six-point, 72-66, conference victory over the Ospreys.

With the win, the Lakers improve to 8-4 overall and 5-1 in the Peach Belt Conference, while North Florida falls to 6-7 overall and 3-3 in the PBC. Clayton State will return to the court on Wednesday, traveling to Columbus State for a 7:30 p.m. contest.

The Lakers took a 26-point lead, 55-29, at the 15:51 mark of the second half on a inside basket by senior John Jowers (London, England), followed by UNF's Koran Godwin (Roselle, N.J.) answering with a dunk that resulted in a three-point play. CCSU's Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA) came back with a windmill dunk of his own only to have the Ospreys go on a 24-7 run over the next 11 minutes. The UNF run cut the deficit to 64-61 on a three-pointer by freshman Donny Lotz (New Port Richey, FL) with 3:07 remaining.

Senior Charlie Frazier (Brunswick, GA) re-extended the Lakers' lead to five points, 66-61, on two free throws at the 2:30 mark, and after a UNF free throw, senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, N.J.) converted a layup to give the team a 68-64 lead with 33 seconds in the game. Frazier and senior Jay Gibbons' free throws in last 10 seconds secured the win.

Clayton State shot 49 percent (25-of-51) from the field, 36 percent (5-of-14) from three-point range and 65 percent (17-of-26) from the free throw line. North Florida shot 37 percent (19-of-51) from the floor, 38 percent (9-of-24) from three-point range and 86 percent (19-of-22) from the free throw line.

The Lakers had a balanced scoring attack with a trio of players scoring 12 points. Senior Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA), Harris and junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA) each finished with a dozen. Phenizee hit 6-of-7 from the field and pulled 10 rebounds, while Johnson hit 5-of-9 from the field and had seven rebounds.

Frazier finished with 10 points, while Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) and senior Marty Fears (Lithonia, GA) each finished with nine points.

For North Florida, Godwin finished with 15 points, followed by Lotz with 14 points. Junior Jo Jo Cadray (Atlanta, GA) finished with nine points, while freshman David Hartigan (Jacksonville, FL) and sophomore Justin Bridges (Passaic, N.J.) each had eight points.

Clayton State won the battle on the boards, outrebounding North Florida 35-32 and committed only 14 turnovers compared to 16 for the Ospreys.

###CCSU###

Clayton State falls to GC&SU; drops first
Peach Belt game of the season

Matt Watt, Sports Information
Game Stats
Morrow, GA---January 9, 2002---The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team dropped its first conference game of the season Wednesday, falling to Peach Belt Conference rival Georgia College & State University 99-89 at the Athletics & Fitness Center in Morrow.

The loss drops Clayton State to 7-4 overall and 4-1 in the league, while the win improves the Bobcats to 8-5 overall and 3-3 in the conference. The Lakers will return to the court on Saturday, traveling to the University of North Florida for 4 p.m. conference match-up.

Trailing 45-36 at halftime, the Lakers cut the deficit to four points, 52-48, in the first five minutes of the second half on a basket by senior Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA) only to have GC&SU push its lead back up to eight with four unanswered points minutes later

Clayton State cut into the deficit once again in the next three minutes and trailed by only one point, 58-57, at the 9:47 mark thanks to a three-pointer by junior Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA). The Bobcats answered again though and extended its to five points, 62-57, with 8:57 remaining on two Ivan Bracic free throws and a basket by Rodney Keener.

CCSU Junior Mike Phenizee followed the GC&SU run with a basket but that was as close the Lakers would come as the Bobcats outscored the Lakers 18-5 over the next four minutes to secure the victory.

Senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) led the Lakers offensively with 23 points, hitting 7-of-12 shots from the field and 9-of-14 from the free throw line. Jerry Johnson chipped in 19 points on 6-of-12 from the field, which included 2-of-5 from three-point territory. He also hit 5-of-8 from the free throw line and had seven rebounds.

Junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA) chipped in 12 points, followed by senior Charlie Frazier, Jr., (Brunswick, GA) with 11 points and Jamal Johnson with 10 points and seven boards. Senior Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) had 10 assists and six points.

Clayton State shot a season high 50 percent (29-of-58) from the field but struggled from the free throw line, hitting 63 percent (26-of-41). The Bobcats shot 57 percent (35-of-61) from the floor, the highest of any team this year against the Lakers, and 81 percent from the free throw line (26-of-32).

GC&SU leading scorer Keener led the Bobcat offensive attack with 29 points, hitting 12-of-20 from the field, 3-of-4 from three-point range and 2-of-3 from the free throw line.

Derrick Nicholson and Joseph Harris added 15 points apiece for GC&SU, followed by Ivan Bracic and Johnnie Stafford with 10 points each.

Clayton State won the battle on the boards, outrebounding the Bobcats 37-31 and committed 12 turnovers compared to 13 for GC&SU.

##CCSU##

Lakers defeat USCS 64-59; improve to 7-3
overall and 4-0 in Peach Belt Conference

Game Stats
Spartanburg, S.C.-January 7, 2002--- Outscoring the University of South Carolina Spartanburg 25-13 over final 13 minutes of the game, the Clayton College & State University men's basketball team kept its unbeaten Peach Belt Conference streak alive, downing the USCS 64-59 at the G.B. Hodge Center Monday.

A senior Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA) steal with 17 seconds remaining in the game led to a couple of free throws for the senior forward, pushing the Laker lead to five points, 61-56, and sealed the victory for CCSU.

The win improves Clayton State to 7-3 overall and 4-0 in the PBC, its best-ever start in the league play. The Lakers will return to the court Wednesday, hosting Georgia College & State University in a 7:30 p.m. contest. USCS drops to 3-8 overall and 0-8 in the conference.

After leading only once in the first half, the Lakers trailed 33-31 at halftime before taking its second lead of the game at the 7:54 mark of the second half on a three-pointer by junior Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA).

USCS's Kevin Harrington and Clayton State's Charlie Frazier, Jr. (Brunswick, GA), exchanged three-pointers over the next two possessions before the Lakers went on a 12-8 run over the last five minutes. The Lakers hit 6-of-7 free throws down the stretch en route to the victory.

Saddled by foul trouble the entire evening, the Lakers played 12 players in the game and had 10 players score. Jerry Johnson led the offensive attack with 11 points to go along with six rebounds, two assists and two steals.

Junior Harris Skoutaris (Athens, Greece) finished with 10 points, hitting 4-of-5 shots from the field, including 2-of-2 shots from three-point range. Junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA) finished with nine points, while Frazier and Jamal Johnson each chipped in eight points. Frazier also had four assists in the game.

The Lakers shot 47 percent (23-for-49) from the field, 62 percent (8-of-13) from three-point territory and 56 percent (10-of-18) from the free throw line.

For USCS, Harrington led the offensive attack with 22 points, hitting 8-of-12 from the field and 6-of-9 from three-point range. Dave Diebel chipped in 14 points.

The Rifles shot 46 percent (20-of-44) from the field, 47 percent from 3-point territory (8-of-17) and 85 percent (11-of-13) from the free throw line.

USCS outrebounded the Lakers 30-26 but committed 23 turnovers compared to 18 for Clayton State.

#####

CCSU defeats USCA 72-70;
improves to 3-0 in PBC

Game Stats
Aiken, S.C.-January 5, 2002--- The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team pushed its record to 3-0 in the Peach Belt Conference Saturday, defeating the University of South Carolina Aiken 72-70 at The Courthouse in Aiken.

Trailing 32-30 at halftime, the Lakers opened the second half on a 16-5 run and led 46-37 on a basket by junior Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA) with 15:41 remaining in the game.

A three-pointer by senior Charlie Frazier (Brunswick, GA) gave the Lakers an 11-point lead, 57-46, with 10:37 remaining, the team's first double-digit lead of the contest. Senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) hit 1-of-2 free throws at the 7:58 mark to give the Lakers their largest lead of 14 points, 62-48.

USCA made a late run as the Lakers struggled down the stretch at the free throw line, hitting only 5-of-13 free throws in the final three minutes. The Pacers also capitalized on two Clayton State technical fouls in the final eight minutes.

With the win, the Lakers improve to 6-3 overall and 3-0 in the Peach Belt, while the Pacers fall to 4-6 overall and 0-3 in the league. Clayton State will return to the court Monday, traveling to the University of South Carolina Spartanburg for a 7:30 p.m. conference match-up.

Harris led the offensive attack for Clayton State with 22 points and six rebounds, followed by Jerry Johnson with 14 points and nine boards. Jamal Johnson finished with nine points and pulled a career high 15 rebounds, while senior Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) finished with 10 points and seven assists.

Clayton State shot 42 percent from the field (23-of-54), including 52 percent (12-of-23) in the second half comeback. The Lakers shot 21 percent (3-of-14) from three-point range and 56 percent (23-of-41) from the free throw line for the game.

For USCA, Clint Keown led the Pacers with 26 points but connected on only 6-of-30 shots from the field. He was 3-of-8 from three-point territory and 11-of-13 from the free throw line. Leroy Willliams finished with 10 points, while Minda Jokulis had eight points and 13 rebounds.

The Pacers shot 32 percent (21-of-65) from the field, including 25 percent (9-of-36) in the second half. The team shot 35 percent (5-of-14) from three-point territory and 58 percent (23-of-40) from the free throw line.

Clayton State won the battle on the boards, outrebounding USCA 48-45 but did commit 18 turnovers compared to 15 for the Pacers.

Clayton State State falls to
Morehouse at the buzzer 63-61

Game Stats
Morrow, GA--December 29, 2001--- Morehouse's Blake O'Farrow drained a fall-away 15-foot jump shot with six-tenths of a second remaining in the game to break a 61-61 tie and the hearts of Clayton College & State University men's basketball team Saturday in the CCSU Holiday Classic.

The Lakers led by three points, 61-58, with 1:06 remaining in the game until Morehouse's Jerone Dodd drilled a 3-pointer to tie the game at 61 apiece with 17 seconds left.

But in the final 17 seconds, both teams struggled handling the ball as Clayton State committed three turnovers, and Morehouse had two. The third CCSU turnover in the span proved fatal, setting up the game-winning score for the Tigers in the 63-51 win.

Up next for Clayton State (5-3; 2-0), the Lakers will return to Peach Belt Conference action, hosting Armstrong Atlantic State University in a game on Wednesday, January 2. The contest will begin at 7:30 p.m.

The Lakers led the entire second half of the game and pushed its lead to as high as nine points 50-41 at the 9:48 mark on a three-pointer by senior Charlie Frazier (Brunswick, GA). Clayton State led 33-32 at halftime and by as many as 10 points in the first half.

For CCSU, junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA) finished with 14 points and seven rebounds, hitting 6-of-9 shots from the field. Frazier finished with 13 points, followed by senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) with 10 points. Senior Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) dished off a season-high 12 assists.

The Lakers shot 44 percent (24-of-54) from the field, 43 percent (6-of-14) from 3-point range and 47 percent (7-of-15) from the free throw line. Morehouse shot 40 percent (20-of-50) from the field, 38 percent (3-of-8) from 3-point territory and 71 percent (20-of-28) from the free throw line.

O'Farrow led the attack for Morehouse with 19 points, hitting 6-of-9 from the field, including a three-pointer and 6-of-9 from the free throw line. Brandon Childs chipped in 14 points to go along with six rebounds, while Jason Cornelius finished with 10 points.

Morehouse outrebounded the Lakers 36-30 in the game but did commit 19 turnovers, compared to 17 for Clayton State.

##CCSU##

Clayton State falls to Albany State 73-64

Game Stats
Morrow, GA--December 28, 2001--- The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team dropped its second contest of the season Friday, falling to Albany State University 73-64 in the CCSU Holiday Classic.

Leading 26-25 at halftime, Albany State outscored Clayton State 47-39 in the second half, en route to the nine-point victory. Trailing by 18 points with 12:31 remaining, the Lakers cut the deficit to eight points on four different occasions in the stanza but could inch no closer.

Clayton State (5-2) will host Morehouse College (5-4) on Saturday in the tournament, while Albany State (1-7) will play the State University of West Georgia (6-3) in the other game.

Albany State's Grady Caldwell led the offensive attack for the Rams, scoring a game high 37 points in the game, hitting 13-of-20 from the field. His effort included 6-of-8 from 3-point territory and 5-of-7 from the free throw line. He also added six rebounds and four steals.

In addition to Caldwell, Flem Tucker scored 11 points and had seven rebounds, while John Davis had 10 points for Albany State.

For Clayton State, seniors Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) and Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA) each posted "double-doubles." Harris finished with 15 points and 10 rebounds, while Johnson had 14 points and 10 rebounds. Johnson also added seven assists.

Senior Charlie Frazier (Brunswick, GA) had 12 points and five steals, while junior Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA) finished with 10 points and seven rebounds.

The Lakers shot 37 percent (25-of-67) from the field, 28 percent (8-of-29) from 3-point range and 46 percent (6-of-13) from the free throw line. Albany State shot 50 percent (24-of-48) from the field, 47 percent (9-of-19) from 3-point territory and 59 percent (16-of-27) from the free throw line.

Clayton State won the battle on the boards, outrebounding the Rams 42-32 but did commit 17 turnovers compared to 15 for Albany State.

The game was the second meeting between the two clubs as Clayton State defeated the Rams 70-62 in overtime in the Lakers' season opener.

######

Clayton State defeats
Edward Waters 91-80
Senior Jerry Johnson leads scoring attack with 22 points

Game Stats
Morrow, GA--December 17, 2001---The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team notched its fifth win of the season Monday, defeating Edward Waters College 91-80.

The Lakers weathered a late Edward Waters run to pull out the 11-point victory. Leading by 24 points, 68-44, with 14:02 remaining, Edward Waters cut the Clayton State lead to as few as five points in the final minutes before the Lakers prevailed.

A senior Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) basket with less than a minute in the game gave the Lakers a seven-point, 84-77 lead, followed by seven free throws down the stretch to secure the victory. Senior Marty Fears (Lithonia, GA) hit four free throws in the stretch while junior Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA) added two and Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) hit one.

With the win, the Lakers improve to 5-1 overall, while Edward Waters drops to 11-4. The Lakers will take a break before returning to the court on Friday, December 28^th. Clayton State will host Albany State in the first day of CCSU Holiday Classic on December 28^th in an 8 p.m. game. The Lakers will play Morehouse in the tournament on Saturday, December 29^th at 8 p.m.

The Lakers jumped out to an early lead in Tueday's game and led by 11 points at the 11:31 mark on a basket by Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA). Clayton State extended its lead to as many as 19 points in the first half before taking a 51-34 lead at halftime.

Jerry Johnson led CCSU with 22 points and eight rebounds, followed by Harris with 20 points and 11 rebounds. Junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA) chipped in 16 points and had eight boards, while Jamal Johnson added nine points.

For Edward Waters, Steven Hodge led the scoring attack with 23 points, followed by Lamaas Barefield with 15 points and 11 rebounds. Delancey Johnson finished with 14 points, followed by Antawan Johnson with 11.

##CCSU##

Gibbons captures 250^thDivision II men's
basketball victory with win at KSU

Morrow, GA--December 12, 2001---The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team had a break through win last week at Kennesaw State University and in the process won a milestone game in the coaching career of new head coach Gordon Gibbons.

Gibbons, in his first season at Clayton State, captured his 250^th career win in Division II men's basketball. The 76-56 win over its Peach Belt Conference rival was also historic in that it was the first time the Lakers had ever won at KSU in eight attempts.

Coach Gibbons, one of the fastest coaches ever to reach the 250-win plateau as he accomplished the feat in 10 seasons and five games, is the third winningest active coach in Division II with a 250-66 (.791) record and the fifth winningest coach all-time at Division II.

He has the Lakers off to a 4-1 start this season after compiling a 246-65 record at Florida Southern College. His success at FSC included six trips to the NCAA tournament two appearances in the Elite Eight and one appearance in the Final Four.

Gibbons averaged a 25-7 win-loss record at FSC and a 79 percent winning percentage. His top season came as recent as the 1999-00 campaign when he led FSC to a 32-2 record, a trip to the Elite Eight and a No. 1 ranking in the nation.

Clayton State is at home for its next four games. Edward Waters, a nationally-ranked NAIA power, visits the Morrow campus on Monday, December, 17^th at 7:30 p.m.

#CCSU##

Clayton State defeats KSU 76-56

Senior Jerry Johnson leads scoring attack with 17 points

Game Stats
Kennesaw, GA--December 5, 2001---The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team had never won at Kennesaw State University in seven tries. But in their eighth attempt on Wednesday, the Lakers won, and in convincing fashion.

Clayton State defeated Peach Belt Conference rival Kennesaw State 76-56 at the Spec Landrum Center, improving to 4-1 overall and 2-0 in the league. With the loss, the Owls drop to 2-4 overall and 0-2 in the conference.

The Lakers took a 13-12 lead at the 14:33 mark of the first half and never looked back. Clayton State led 36-25 at halftime, en route to the 20-point victory. CCSU shot a season best 49 percent (29-of-59) from the field for the game, which included 57 percent (13-of-23) in the second half. Kennesaw State shot 33 percent from the floor, hitting 20-of-61 shots.

For the Lakers, senior Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA) led the attack with 17 points, hitting 7-of-9 from the floor and 2-of-3 from 3-point range. He also added 1-of-2 free throws, six rebounds, four steals and three blocks.

Behind Johnson, senior Charlie Frazier, Jr., (Brunswick, GA) finished with 15 points, five assists and four steals. Junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA) chipped in 12 points and had six rebounds, while junior Jamal Johnson added 10 points and 10 rebounds.

For Kennesaw State, Golden Ingle scored a team-high 17 points, while Hala Kaufusi chipped in 11 points and had six rebounds.

Clayton State won the battle on the boards, outrebounding the Owls 39-35 and committed only 13 turnovers compared to 20 for Kennesaw State.

Up next, the Lakers will host Edward Waters College in a 7:30 p.m. game on December 17^th.

##CCSU##

Clayton State defeats
UNC Pembroke 83-73
Harris scores 24 points, including 14 second half points in win

Game Stats
Morrow, GA--December 1, 2001---Outscoring the University of North Carolina Pembroke 16-6 over a seven-minute stretch late in the second half, the Clayton College & State University men's basketball team won its third game of the season and first Peach Belt Conference contest Saturday, defeating the Braves 83-73.

The win improves Clayton State to 3-1 on the season and 1-0 in the conference, while UNCP drops to 1-2 overall and 1-1 in the league. The Lakers will return to the court on Wednesday, December 5 traveling to face PBC foe Kennesaw State University in a 7:30 p.m. game, while UNCP will returns home to face Newport News on Tuesday, December 4.

Clayton State outscored UNC Pembroke 42-34 in the second half and was paced by senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ), who scored 14 of his game high 24 points in the stanza.

The Lakers led 41-39 at intermission and in the first five minutes of the second half until Brave sophomore Matt Hubbard (Kannapolis, NC) and senior Jay Bruer (Washington, IL) hit consecutive 3-pointers to give the Braves a 51-48 lead with 16:20 remaining in the half.

Clayton State answered however as a junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburgh, PA) dunk, followed by a 3-pointer by Harris re-claimed the lead for the Lakers at 55-51 with 14:10 left in the game.

After both teams exchanged baskets in the next four minutes, the Lakers then went on their game-deciding 16-6 run, capped by two free throws from Harris with 3:34 remaining in the game.

Harris hit 6-of-10 from the floor, 1-of-3 from 3-point range and 11-of-13 from the line for his 24 points. Senior Charlie Frazier (Brunswick, GA) finished with 16 points, followed by junior Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA) with 11 points and 11 rebounds.

For UNCP, junior David Siebrands (Good Thunder, MN) finished with 21 points, followed by Bruer with 19 points, which included hitting 5-of-6 shots from 3-point range. Hubbard finished with 11 points, which included a trio of 3-pointers.

Clayton State shot 42 percent (27-of-65) from the field, 80 percent (24-of-30) from the free throw line and 24 percent (5-of-21) from 3-point range. The Braves shot 48 percent (25-of-52) from the field, 60 percent (12-of-20) from the free throw line and 55 percent (11-of-20) from 3-point territory.

Clayton State won the battle on the boards outrebounding UNCP 47-30 but did commit 18 turnovers compared to only 13 for the Braves.

##CCSU##

Clayton State defeats Mobile 87-76

Game Stats
Morrow, GA--November 26, 2001---The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team jumped out to an early first half lead and then held on in the end to capture its second victory of the season Monday, defeating the University of Mobile 87-76 at the Athletics & Fitness Center.

The win improves Clayton State to 2-1 on the season, while Mobile drops to 5-2 on the year. The Lakers will return to the court on Saturday, hosting the University of North Carolina Pembroke in its Peach Belt Conference opener at 4 p.m.

In Monday's game, Clayton State raced out to an early lead, and took its first double-digit advangtage, 25-14, at the 8:35 mark on two free throws by junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburg, PA). The Lakers went on to outscore the Rams 16-6 over the next eight minutes and took a 21-point lead, 41-20, at intermission.

Junior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) led the offensive attack in the first half with 10 points, followed by Phenizee with eight. The Lakers shot 45 percent (18-for-40) from the floor in the stanza and took 15 more shots from the floor than the Rams, who finished the half at 32 percent (8-of-25)

After Clayton State pushed its lead up to a game-high 23 points at the 16:54 mark of the second half, the University of Mobile decided to go on a run itself, thanks in large part to the 3-point shooting of redshirt freshman Larry Burgess (Livingston, LA) and sophomore Seluynn Palmer (Bay Minette, AL). The duo hit 9-of-19 three-pointers in the second half as Burgess connected on 5-of-12 and Palmer hit 4-of-7.

After trailing by double-digits for most of the game, Mobile cut the lead to single digits, 72-64, at the 4:54 mark on a basket by senior Robert Harden (Lombard, IL). CCSU senior Charlie Frazier, Jr. (Brunswick, GA), answered on the next possession, hitting a 3-pointer to re-extend the Laker lead to double digits, 75-64.

However, the Rams would not go away and came back less than a minute later with two free throws, followed by a Palmer 3-pointer to cut the deficit to six points, 75-69, with 2:25 remaining.

Clayton State senior Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA) came right back with a three-pointer to give the Lakers a 78-69 lead at the 1:59 mark, followed by Frazier draining two free throws 20 seconds later to secure the victory.

Phenizee led the Laker attack with 19 points, nine rebounds and five blocks. He hit 7-of-11 from the field and 5-of-8 from the free throw line. Frazier and Harris each finished with 15 points, followed by Jerry Johnson with 11 points, five rebounds, five assists and five steals.

Junior Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA) chipped in nine points and had five rebounds, while senior Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) finished with eight points, nine assists, eight rebounds and three steals.

Clayton State shot 48 percent (31-of-64) from the field, 29 percent (4-of-14) from 3-point range and 72 percent (21-of-29) from the free throw line.

For Mobile, sophomore Tramaine Perry (Hammond, LA) finished with 20 points and six rebounds, hitting 7-of-15 from the field, 3-of-6 from 3-point territory and 3-of-6 from the free throw line. Burgess added 18 points, hitting 6-of-18 from the field, 5-of-12 from 3-point range and 1-of-4 from the free throw line.

Palmer chipped in 12 points hitting 4-of-12 from the field, which included 4-of-9 from 3-point territory, while Harden added 10 points and seven rebounds.

Mobile shot 40 percent (25-of-62) from the field, 44 percent (12-of-27) from 3-point territory and 47 percent (14-of-30) from the free throw line.

The Rams outrebounded the Lakers 41-40 in the game but committed 23 turnovers compared to only 16 for the Lakers.

##CCSU##

Clayton State falls to West Georgia 99-83

Game Stats
Carrollton, GA--November 20, 2001---The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team dropped its first contest of the season Tuesday, falling to non-conference rival West Georgia 99-83 in Carrollton.

The loss evens the Clayton State record at 1-1 on the season. CCSU will return to the court on Monday, Nov. 26, hosting the University of Mobile in its home opener at 7:30 p.m.

The Lakers fell behind early in Tuesday's but battled and stayed within striking distance for much of the game.

Trailing 44-33 at halftime, the Lakers cut the deficit to seven points 48-41 in the first three minutes of the second half with an 8-2 run only to have West Georgia go on a run of its own. The Braves outscored the Lakers 29-14 over the next 10 minutes and held onto a double-digit lead for the remainder of the game.

West Georgia shot 45 percent (32-of-71) from the field in the game, including 39 percent (9-of-23) from 3-point range. The Braves shot 48 percent (15-of-31) in the second half and hit 5-of-11 3-pointers.

Clayton State shot 38 percent (27-of-71) from the field for the game, including 4-of-16 from 3-point range. The Lakers did win the battle on the boards, outrebounding the Braves 53-44.

Junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburg, PA) led the Laker scoring attack with 16 points and 11 rebounds, while senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) chipped in 15 points. Junior Jamal Johnson (Columbus, GA) along with Phenizee also recorded a "double-double," with 14 points and 12 rebounds.

Senior Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA) finished with 12 points and six rebounds, while senior Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) finished with nine points and six rebounds.

For West Georgia, senior Chezley Watson (Gainesville, GA) had a game-high 22 points, followed by junior Bryant Redd (Eden, NC) with 18 points, which included four 3-pointers.

Senior Issac Williamson (Los Angeles, CA) chipped in 16 points, followed by senior Anthony Moore (Somerville, TN) with 15 points and senior Andy Young (New Philadelphia, OH) with 13 points.

##CCSU##

Clayton State defeats Albany State
70-62 in overtime in season opener

Game Stats
Albany, GA--November 17, 2001---The Gordon Gibbons era of Clayton College & State University men's basketball started off on a positive note Saturday as the Lakers won their season opener 70-62 in overtime at Albany State University.

The Lakers outscored Albany State 14-6 in overtime to pull out the victory in front of more than 2,000 fans at the HPER Gymnasium in Albany. Senior Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) and junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburg, PA) each scored 20 points in the win.

Up next, Clayton State (1-0) will travel to West Georgia on Tuesday for 7:30 p.m. contest before returning home on November 26 to take on Mobile in its home opener.

Trailing 27-26 at intermission, the Lakers outscored the Rams 30-29 to force the overtime period. Clayton State shot 37 percent from the field for the game, hitting 27-of-74 shots, while holding Albany State to 34 percent (21-of-62) from the floor.

Along with their 20 points, Harris and Phenizee pulled 11 and nine rebounds, respectively. Harris hit 6-of-19 shots from the floor and 8-of-12 from the free throw line, while Phenizee was 9-of-14 from the field and 2-of-6 from the line.

Senior Charlie Frazier, Jr. (Brunswick, GA) finished with 10 points, while senior Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA) chipped in seven points and pulled 11 boards. Senior Jay Gibbons had six points, seven assists and three steals.

For Albany State, John Davis and Grady Caldwell each finished with 15 points, while Jessie Morris had 11 points and five boards. John Harden had nine points and a game-high 14 rebounds.

##CCSU##

Clayton State defeats VASDA 100-85

Game Stats
Morrow, GA-November 11, 2001---The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team closed out its exhibition season on positive note Sunday, defeating VASDA USA 100-85.

Up next, Clayton State will open its regular season Saturday, traveling to face Albany State in a 7:30 p.m. contest. After a game on Nov. 20 at West Georgia, the team will open its home schedule on Nov. 26, hosting Mobile in a 7:30 p.m. game.

In Sunday's game, the Lakers took control of the contest in the first half, using a 28-14 run near the end of stanza and led by as many as 24 points in the first half. The Lakers shot a sizzling 57 percent (24-of-42) in the half and led 59-38 at halftime. Seniors Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ) and Charlie Frazier, Jr. (Brunswick, GA) each had 10 points in the half.

In the second half, VASDA outscored Clayton State 25-13 in the first nine minutes and cut the deficit to eight points, 71-63. The Lakers regained their double-digit lead on a basket by senior John Jowers (London England) at the 10:15 mark only to have VASDA chip back into its lead once again.

VASDA's Desmond Walker hit a 3-pointer with 7:38 remaining to cut the deficit to six points, 77-71, but Clayton State responded with a 13-5 run over the next five minutes, capped by two free throws from Harris for a 14-point lead, 90-76. A free throw in the final seconds by junior Mike Phenizee (Pittsburg, PA) gave the Lakers 100 points and a 17-point lead.

Clayton State shot 55 percent from the field, hitting 38-of-69, including 4-of-11 from 3-point territory. Harris and Frazier led the scoring attack with 17 points apiece, while Jowers and Phenizee each had 15 points and pulled six and five rebounds, respectively.

Sophomore Kennon Taylor (Rex, GA) had nine points, while senior Jay Gibbons (Lakeland, FL) had seven points, eight assists and four steals.

Clayton State held VASDA to 39 percent (29-of-75) shooting from the floor but was outrebounded 45-44 in the game. For VASDA, Walker finished with 24 points, while Jay Price had 20 points. Tank Montgomery chipped in 17 points, followed by Mark Smith with 15 points.

Clayton State is the only Division II team on the VASDA preseason schedule this year. Entering the contest, VASDA had defeated Division I opponents Murray State and UNC-Asheville.

Clayton State defeats BaselineUSA
89-77 in exhibition opener

Morrow, GA—November 6, 2001---Behind 25 points from senior Kareen Harris, the Clayton College & State University men's basketball team tipped of its exhibition season Tuesday with an 89-77 victory over BaselineUSA.

The Lakers will return to the court on Sunday, hosting VASDA USA in a 7:30 p.m. exhibition contest. Clayton State opens the regular season on November 17 traveling to face Albany State University in a 7:30 p.m. game.

In Tuesday's contest, the Lakers took a 41-35 lead at halftime before extending its lead to double digits five minutes into the second half. With 15:10 remaining in the game, the Lakers went on a 9-0 run and in a two-minute span led by 17 points. The Lakers extended its lead to as many as 19 points before Baseline made a late run, cutting into the deficit.

Clayton State shot 56 percent from the field in the second half, hitting 18-of-32 shots, while holding BaselineUSA to 41 percent (13-for-32).

Along with Harris, the Lakers had four players finish in double-digits and two seniors chip in "double-doubles." Senior John Jowers had 13 points and pulled 11 rebounds, while senior teammate Jerry Johnson finished with 11 points and 11 rebounds. Junior Jamal Johnson finished 11 points and eight boards.

For BaselineUSA, Jermaine Spivey led the squad with 17 points.

##CCSU##

Clayton State signs JUCO standouts
Phenizee and Johnson join Gibbons as 2001-02 recruiting class

Morrow, GA—August 3, 2001--- The Clayton College & State University men's basketball team recently put the final touches on its 2001-02 recruiting class, signing two standout junior college post players.

Mike Phenizee, a 6-9 230 lb. post from Brevard Community College in Cocoa, FL, along with Jamal Johnson, a 6-7 205 lb. post from Indian River Community College, Fort Pierce, FL, will join Jay Gibbons as the 2001-02 recruiting class. Jay signed with CCSU last spring and joins the squad after playing three years at Florida Southern College.

"Both of these young men (Phenizee and Johnson) played in championship programs and for outstanding coaches," said 1^styear head coach Gordon Gibbons. "They are experienced players who will help fill our need in the frontcourt."

Phenizee, a Streets & Smith preseason All-American last year, averaged 13.4 points along with over eight rebounds per game, while leading the Florida Community College Athletic Association as a sophomore with 68 blocked shots. As a freshman, Phenizee was named to the All-Conference team and led the squad to a national tournament appearance and state championship.

Johnson, a 2000-01 All-Conference selection, led Indian River to the conference championship, averaging 16 points and eight rebounds per contest.

Phenizee and Johnson will join Gibbons, who has one year of eligibility remaining, after playing three years at Florida Southern, two years (1998-00) under his father Gordon, Clayton State's new head coach.

A 6-3, 185 lb. point guard, Gibbons led Florida Southern to an 83-17 record during his three years at the school and played during some of the most successful years in Florida Southern basketball history. He was a member of the 1999-00 team that finished 32-2, earned a trip to the Elite Eight and held a No. 1 ranking in the nation. He also played on the 1998-99 team that went 28-8 and placed third in the country.

Last season, Jay led the Sunshine State Conference in assists, dishing off over five per game, shot a team-leading 82 percent from the free throw line and averaged six points and three rebounds per game.

All three signees will join an experienced Clayton State squad that returns four starters and six of the team's top seven players in Charlie Frazier, Jr. (Brunswick, GA), Jerry Johnson (Riverdale, GA), Kareen Harris (Atlantic City, NJ), John Jowers (London, England), Harris Skoutaris (Athens, Greece) and Marty Fears (Lithonia, GA). The six players accounted for almost 80 percent of the team's points and over 60 percent of the team's rebounds last year.

Frazier, a three-year starter on pace to shatter several CCSU records, led the squad in assists and was third in scoring with 11 points per game, while Johnson was third in rebounding with five boards per game and second in scoring with 13 points per contest.

Harris led the team in scoring with 14 points per game and Jowers pulled a team- leading six rebounds per game. Skoutaris and Fears were the club's top shooters, ranking first and second, respectively, in free throw and three-point percentage. Skoutaris also had the second highest overall field goal percentage on the team.

"We have a deep, experienced group of players returning and an experienced group coming in," said Gibbons. "There will be a lot of competition for playing time."

Coach Gibbons joins Clayton State after a ten-year career at Florida Southern, where he amassed a 246-65 record (3rd winningest Div. II record) and posted nine 20-win seasons, including six trips to the NCAA tournament and two appearances in the Final Four.

He averaged a 25-7 win-loss record at FSC, a 79 percent winning percentage with his top season, coming as recent as the 1999-00 campaign when he led FSC to a 32-2 record, a trip to the Elite Eight and a No. 1 ranking in the nation. In the 1998-99 season, Gibbons led his team to a 28-8 record and a third place finish in the country.

The Lakers will open the season Nov. 17 at Albany State University.

--CCSU--

Jay Gibbons signs to play basketball for Lakers; joins father at CC&SU

Morrow, GA—May 23, 2001--- Like father, like son. Jay Gibbons, son of new Clayton College & State University men's basketball coach Gordon Gibbons, recently became the first Laker basketball signee for the 2001-02 season.

Jay joins the CC&SU squad after playing three years at Florida Southern College, two years (1998-00) under his father, who served as the FSC head coach for 10 years. He transfers to Clayton State with one remaining year of eligibility.

"Jay is like having a coach on the floor," said coach Gibbons, the NCAA Division II's third winningest coach. "He sees the floor really well and will add another experienced ballhandler to our squad."

A 6-3, 185 lb. point guard, Gibbons helped lead Florida Southern to an 83-17 record during his three years at the school and played during some of the most successful years in Florida Southern basketball history. He was a member of the 1999-00 team that finished 32-2, earned a trip to the Elite Eight and held a No. 1 ranking in the nation. He also played on the 1998-99 team that went 28-8 and placed third in the country.

Last season, Jay led the Sunshine State Conference in assists, dishing off over five per game. He shot a team-leading 82 percent from the free throw line and averaged six points and three rebounds per game.

In addition to Jay, coach Gibbons expects to sign two more players for the 2001-02 season. Clayton State graduated only one senior from last year's squad. The Lakers will open the season Nov. 17 at Albany State University.