Jan. 3, 2007

Final Stats

Lewis Jackson was a prolific scorer during his playing days at Alabama State. So with Jackson State and Trey Johnson - the nation's second leading scorer--coming to town, Jackson knew exactly what he wanted his team to do: try to limit his touches, force him to make shots with a hand in his face and prevent easy baskets and free throw attempts.

In short, Jackson wanted the preseason SWAC player of the year to earn everything he got.

For most of the game, Jackson's plan worked. But in the second half, Johnson racked up 18 free throw attempts and 28 points to lead JSU past ASU 81-68.

"No doubt he is a very good player," Jackson said of Johnson, who ended with 38 total points. "We did a good job in the first half, but after halftime we had so many fouls called against us that Jackson State was in the bonus with 15:55 to go."

JSU would cash in making 19 of the 26 free throw attempted they were given.

Early on, the Hornets looked as if they were ready to upset the preseason conference favorites. Jackson State raced to a five point advantage, but ASU fought right back to tie the game at 11. From there the Hornets stayed ahead for most of the first half, surging to a 37-31 lead at halftime.

Jackson State rallied to tie the game at 41, and the game stayed tight as neither team could muster more than a three point lead for the next seven minutes.

With 8:34 remaining and the game tied, Johnson did what great players do: make big shots when the game is on the line.

He hit a three point shot before making three free throws after he was fouled attempting another 3-pointer to push Jackson State to a six point Jackson State. ASU would not get any closer. His teammates got into the act hitting most of their last baskets, but Johson's job was already done.

"We knew they'd try to get him a lot of looks all over the floor," Jackson said. "For the most part I think we did a pretty decent job on him.

"I'm more concerned with our effort and activity. There were a few loose balls we lost that we have to find a way to get to. Those are the plays that make the difference in close games."

ASU had four players in double figures. Dustin Richmond scored 12, Andrew Hayles had 11 and Richard Lott and Tahrea Jackson each chipped it 10.

For Tahrea Jackson, it was his best game as a Hornet. Fellow newcomer Jared Howard also made an impact, adding 9 points and playing solid defense on Trey Johnson.

ASU (2-10 overall, 0-1 SWAC) hosts Grambling State on Thursday night, 30 minutes after the women's game which starts at 6 p.m.