OTAHKS DIAL UP VICTORY

PULLMAN, Wash. -- Southeast Missouri's Otahkians emerged with a split in Washington State's Dial Classic with an 83-64 victory Saturday night over Western Illinois.

Gray C. Harris scored 34 points for Southeast, which improved to 2-2 on the season.

The Otahkians were able to rebound from a 89-50 loss to Washington State in Friday's action.

"It made a successful trip for us," said Otahkian head coach Ed Arnzen. "We got blasted last night by a team last night which was physically superior. I think to get a split on our first road trip is a big success. I think a loss would of been devastating. This one meant a whole lot."

Southeast held a 10-point lead three minutes before halftime, but saw Western Illinois finish the half with a 9-0 flurry to trim the lead to 34-33. Western Illinois then completed a 15-0 run and took the lead with the first six points of the second half.

The Otahkians responded to Western Illinois' run.

"We started getting more aggressive and got some transition baskets," said Arnzen.

Arnzen credited freshmen Zandra Moore and twins Sherry and Shauna Cook with their best games of the season.

"All three stepped up and became aggressive," said Arnzen.

Moore finished with 12 points while Kim Palmer added 11.

Lori Haskett and Deirdre LaFrance each scored 17 points for Western Illinois.

The Otahkians return to action next Saturday at the University of Missouri.