The Saints Defeat Danville to Advance, But Fall Short of Nationals

3/6/10

Danville Area CC 60 vs. Shawnee 96

The Saints to a 14-2 led to start the game with their signature full court pressure defense. Shawnee led 59 to 37 at the half and the Saints never looked back.

"We were really rolling today. Tomorrow is the game we have been preparing for since August. Ding, Ding, let’s get it on!” Coach Sparks"

SAINTS Statistical Leaders
DD Gillespie - 18 points
Tra Scott - 21 points
Kyle Williamson - 10 points
Steve Smith - 9 points
Jordan Johnson - 9 points

Shawnee CC 72 vs. Lincoln 86

Shawnee finishes the season with a record of 19-10 overall. The Saints only three loses at home were to nationally ranked teams. (Lewis & Clark #6 and Lincoln twice, both teams advanced to the national tournament.)

"We started the seasaon with our team motto of 'Determined to Deliver,' but fell one game short. We had a great run. These guys really showed heart and character. We won 9 out of our last 12 games scoring a lot of points playing an exciting brand of basketball. It has been many years since this program has won 19 games in a season. We all just wanted to win one more. These young men really made this year enjoyable for me. Watching them grow and mature as individuals and as a team was amazing. " Coach Sparks

"My two sophomores, D.D. Gillespie and Kyle Williamson, really put together two years at Shawnee that they can be very proud of. A couple of kids from the Boothill of Southeast MO really gave us some great leadership. When the pain and disappoint of this loss subsides they will look back on all the great memories and good times. I also will look back on this season with a lot of great memories and exciting victories. I guess it not the destination that you will remember, but the journey along the way." Coach Sparks

SAINTS Statistical Leaders
DD Gillespie - 21 points, 7 assist, 6 rebounds, and 2 steals.
Tra Scott - 11 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 steals.
Steve Smith - 8 points
Kyle Williamson - 7 points
Jordan Johnson - 7 points