Redhawks wrap up preseason with lopsided win

After struggling in its exhibition opener, the Southeast Missouri State men's basketball team had no problems Saturday night.

Southeast closed out its two-game exhibition schedule by routing Division III MacMurray College 109-76 at the Show Me Center.

In their first exhibition, the Redhawks trailed NAIA Missouri Baptist by two points at halftime before winning 81-73.

"We just tried to play hard, smart and together," senior forward Jaycen Herring said. "I think our intensity level was better this time."

The Redhawks led the Highlanders from Jacksonville, Ill. -- who went 3-22 last year -- 51-36 at halftime and padded the margin over the final 20 minutes.

"The intensity definitely picked up," sophomore forward Jajuan Maxwell said.

Six Southeast players scored in double figures and two recorded double-doubles as the Redhawks crushed the Highlanders on the boards by a 57-37 count.

Maxwell, who had a double-double by halftime, finished with 16 points and a game-high 15 rebounds. He also had a double-double against Missouri Baptist after missing all of last season with a knee injury.

Herring had 22 points, five assists and five steals, while senior guard Kenard Moore also scored 22 points.

Junior guard Johnny Hill scored 15 points. Junior college transfer forward Israel Kirk had 13 points and 11 rebounds.

Juco transfer forward LaMont Russell added 11 points and nine rebounds, while juco transfer point guard Bijon Jones had six points, eight assists and three steals against just two turnovers.

"We did play better tonight," said Southeast acting coach Zac Roman, whose squad opens the season Friday night at New Mexico. "That's what we want to do, get a little better each time."

Pirri to transfer

Roman said freshman forward Stuart Pirri intends to transfer at the end of the semester. Southeast has granted his request for a release from his scholarship.

Pirri will continue to practice with the team until he leaves, but will not play in games so he doesn't use up any eligibility.

Pirri was in uniform but did not see action in the first exhibition game. He was on the bench in street clothes Saturday.