The University of Mississippi Athletics
Men's Basketball Wins Exhibition Contest Over Spirit Express
6/21/1999 | Men's Basketball
November 3, 1998
OXFORD, Miss. - Junior Marcus Hicks scored a game-high 17 points and freshman Darrian added 15 points and a game-high eight boards to lead Ole Miss to a 105-80 exhibition basketball win over Spirit Express on Tuesday.
Johnnie Rogers, Keith Carter and Jason Harrison each scored 15 points apiece for the Rebels. Lataryl Williams also netted double figures with 11 points. Hosie Grimsley and Steve Williams each scored 14 points apiece to pace Spirit Express.
"We did a pretty good job for our first exhibition game," said Ole Miss head coach Rod Barnes, who is in his first season at the helm of the Rebel program.
"We have a lot of work to do on the defensive end, but I thought our players gave a good effort tonight. I'm sure they were a little nervous with this being our first basketball game with me as the head coach. We learned a lot, and we are going to look at tonight's tape and get ready for the next game."
After Ole Miss held a 14-4 lead, the Spirit Express rebounded to tie the game at 23-all with 11 minutes left in the first half. The Rebels built a seven-point lead by the four minute-mark at 42-35 and held that same margin at the half at 51-44. After the intermission, the Rebels opened the second half with a 20-8 run to take a 71-52 lead and put the game out of reach. The Rebels return to action on Nov. 9 in an exhibition game versus North Melbourne, Australia. The contest is scheduled for a 7:00 p.m. tip at Tad Smith Coliseum. Ole Miss will open regular-season play on Nov. 13 against Alabama State at Tad Smith Coliseum. Game time is 7:00 p.m.
