Louisiana Tech fans are invited to attend Softball Fan Fest on Saturday, Jan. 27, at Dr. Billy Bundrick Field and the Origin Bank Softball Complex from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The event will feature a tour of the facility as well as multiple interactive stations geared towards youth featuring LA Tech players and coaches from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. At Noon, all fans will then have the opportunity to meet the 2024 Bulldog Softball squad for a meet and greet and autograph session with photo opportunities.
Fans will also have the chance to enter a raffle to win various team giveaways. Concessions and the LA Tech Barnes and Nobles Bookstore will be on-site for the event. Season tickets for Bulldog Softball will also be available for purchase throughout the duration of the event.
The Bulldogs enter year three of the Josh Taylor era looking to build off of the last two seasons, which saw Tech post a 71-44 overall record and a Conference USA Regular Season Championship in 2022.
LA Tech begins its season by hosting the LA Tech Invitational, Feb. 10-11, at Dr. Billy Bundrick Field, the first of 25 home games on the schedule.
Season tickets for the 2024 season are on sale now. To purchase season tickets, fans can call 318-257-3631 or go to LATechSports.com/tickets.
The family of the “Honorable” James Robert Kessler invites you to join them in a Memorial Service celebrating the life of their beloved Jim to be held Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at 2:00pm at Alabama Presbyterian Church in Choudrant.
Jim was the 5th born of 7 children to Stan and Mary Kessler on November 12, 1946, in Kansas City, Missouri. He departed from this temporary earthly home to claim his eternal rest and rewards on January 5, 2024, surrounded by family.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Sherri Boyd Kessler, daughters Michele Ratcliff (Jerod), Nicole Kessler, and Daniele Sherrill (Richie). Grandchildren Trevor Ratcliff (Rachel), Olivia Ratcliff, Ellie Sherrill and Hannah Holbron. Brothers Don Kessler and Chuck Kessler, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and wonderful friends.
Honor, courage, and commitment would be evident in his life beyond his years of service in the United States Marine Corps where he served during the Vietnam War. He was a self-employed business owner his entire life and never went a day without having a job. Jim was a lifelong advocate for education and served 20 years on the Lincoln Parish School Board where he was instrumental in progress and improvements to the Choudrant Schools. His motto was “For our kids”.
In a world that is consumed by what others think, Jim never cared and was authentically, unapologetically himself. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Med-Camps of Louisiana, 102 Thomas Road, Suite 615, West Monroe, LA 71291.
James “Jim” Robert Kessler November 12, 1946 – January 5, 2024 Service: Alabama Presbyterian Church in Choudrant, Tuesday, January 9, 2024, 2:00 pm
Lisa Yvonne Fuqua November 17, 1966 – January 5, 2024 Visitation: Tuesday, January 9, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, Temple Baptist Church Chapel, 1515 South Service Road, Ruston Funeral Service: Tuesday, January 9, 2024, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, Temple Baptist Church Chapel, 1515 South Service Road, Ruston Cemetery Committal: Tuesday, January 9, 2024, 12:30 PM, Forest Lawn Cemetery, 2500 West California Ave, Ruston
Christopher L. Melton Monday 01/17/1977 — Saturday 12/30/2023 Family Gathering: Thursday 01/11/2024 2:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Visitation: Thursday 01/11/2024 3:00pm to 5:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Celebration of Life: Friday 01/12/2024 1:00pm, Macedonia Baptist Church #2, 489 E Sibley Rd, Choudrant
The water will be shut off in this area to make repairs. Because of these problems, the water produced by our water supply system is of questionable microbiological quality. Therefore, as a precaution, the City of Ruston Water System is issuing a boil advisory effective immediately. This boil advisory is to remain in effect until rescinded by the City of Ruston Water System
It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:
Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one-minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle or pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)
Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise. Upon notification from the Office of Public Health’s State Regional Laboratory that the samples collected from our water supply have been found to be safe, the State Health Department will notify the water supply of the sample results.
Upon such notification, the City of Ruston Water System will then rescind the boil advisory and notify its customers that the water has been found to be safe.
On Thursday, January 4, 2024, shortly before 5:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash on LA-151 near LA-837. The crash claimed the life of 37-year-old William Collins of Calhoun.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2007 Honda Odyssey, driven by Collins, was traveling south on LA-151. For reasons still under investigation, the Honda exited the roadway, struck a tree, and overturned.
Collins, who was properly restrained, was pronounced dead at the scene. Although impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Stay safe on the road by always driving attentively and without impairment. Avoid distractions, such as texting, eating, or using your phone, and remain focused on the task at hand. Also, never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs (prescribed or illicit). Making responsible choices while driving can save lives and prevent tragedies.
In 2024, Troop F has investigated one fatal crash, resulting in one death.
Mallory Smith (10) scores two in the 40-39 win over Saline at the Smoothie King Center Friday. (photo by Josh McDaniel)
By Josh McDaniel Blue tape adorned the floor marking the three-point arc and narrowing the lane, and the base lines were 10 feet further apart than their home gym.
But no dramatic gestures of stacking a player on another’s shoulders to measure and confirm the rim’s 10-foot height like Norman Dale in the movie “Hoosiers” were needed as the players took to the floor adorned with the Pelicans logo at mid court for warmups.
The Cedar Creek Cougars and Lady Cougars had the unique and thrilling opportunity on Friday afternoon to play Saline High School on the same floor James Harden of the Los Angeles Clippers and Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans would do battle on later that night inside the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans.
“The big floor, the big arena, the big environment had a kind of feel that was very unique for me and the girls,” said Lady Cougars head coach Katie Hall. “It was definitely the first time for them to experience as we walked through the floor access tunnel in the Smoothie King Center onto the Pelicans floor.”
Boys Head Coach Lance Waldron echoed Hall’s sentiments.
“It was a great experience to play on a NBA court,” said Waldron. “It’s always a competitive game when we play Saline, and Friday was no different. I am proud of our team; they fought hard until the very end.”
The 17,791 seats in the Smoothie King Center arena provided a cavernous backdrop to the clear glass free standing hoops, and both teams struggled to adjust.
“We missed a lot of easy layups, and we were off on a lot of our shots,” Hall said. “Our coaches told the team to just keep shooting and keep aiming for the top corner of the block on the black backboard,” she continued.
A large contingent of Cougar and Bobcat fans made the drive down to New Orleans to take in the action.
“I think it was very awesome of Saline and Cedar Creek to represent our respective schools and travel as well as we did,” Hall proudly said. “I was very impressed with the large crowd and the support they offered for both schools.”
After the game, Smoothie King and Pelicans officials announced that the crowd of Cedar Creek and Saline fans was the largest crowd they had hosted for any of the high school showcase games played in the Smoothie King Center.
“We are thankful for all of our families and fans who made the trip down south to show their support,” Waldron said.
The Lady Cougars eventually won 40-39, while the Cougars dropped a 54-52 heartbreaker. No matter the outcomes of the games and the final numbers on the scoreboard, these two games were an experience of a lifetime for all four participating teams.
“I think we benefited most from the team bonding we felt for the whole weekend experience together,” said Hall. “That’s the biggest benefit for me. It didn’t matter whether we won or lost the game on the Pelicans court.”
Janet Wong, Louisiana Tech University Class of ’81 and an independent corporate board director, will deliver the year’s first “Inside the C-Suite” lecture for her alma mater’s College of Business on Wednesday, Jan. 17, at 11 a.m. in Davis Auditorium (College of Business 101).
“I’m thrilled to welcome Janet back to campus to speak with our students about how she works to advance organizations through her role as a board director,” Dean of the College of Business Dr. Chris Martin said. “Janet is a tremendous alumni supporter of Louisiana Tech and the College of Business, and I’m grateful for her willingness to share her expertise and provide insights into the key issues facing Boards of Directors today.”
Wong is an accomplished executive with over 30 years of demonstrated business leadership. Currently, she is an independent board director with strong governance experience and recognition as a qualified financial expert by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the New York Stock Exchange, and Nasdaq.
She serves on the boards of Lucid Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: LCID), a sustainable mobility company producing luxury electric vehicles and electric powertrain systems; Enviva Inc. (NYSE: EVA), a leading global energy company manufacturing sustainable wood bioenergy; and Lumentum Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: LITE), a high-technology manufacturer of innovative photonics to accelerate the speed and scale of the cloud, networking, advanced manufacturing, and 3D sensing.
She has been named to Directors & Boards magazine’s Directors to Watch list, the National Association of Corporate Directors’ 2022 Directorship 100™, and Board Prospects’ list of the Top 30 Asian American Board Directors in the U.S.
Wong served as a senior partner with KPMG, where she spent most of her career based in the San Francisco and Silicon Valley offices providing industry experience in consumer products, energy, financial services, manufacturing, and technology.
She has served on boards for several non-profits including the Louisiana Tech University Foundation, the TriCities Chapter of the National Association of Corporate Directors, and the Computer History Museum.
Wong is a licensed Certified Public Accountant and a NACD Certified® Director. She earned her Master of Professional Accountancy from Tech and Master of Taxation from Golden Gate University in San Francisco. She has also completed Executive Education programs at Harvard Business School and Stanford Law School.
“Inside the C-Suite” provides a forum for top corporate leaders from some of the nation’s most prominent companies to share their views on topics of societal, academic, and professional importance. The series strives to stimulate insightful conversation on current issues by providing a platform for high-level executives to speak about cutting-edge issues, elaborate on trends, share wisdom, and provide important career inspiration and advice for students. Topics cover a variety of themes in core business subjects such as economic climate, ethics, corporate responsibility, leadership, globalization, strategic planning, entrepreneurship, technology, innovation, and diversity.
For more information on “Inside the C-Suite,” contact Mary Susan Britt, executive director of development for the College of Business, at marysusan@latechalumni.org or 318.257.3741.
Welcome to Blue Sky Yoga, where tranquility meets transformation, and community thrives! Immerse yourself in a sanctuary of serenity, where our diverse range of classes led by experienced teachers caters to every level, ensuring a personalized yoga journey just for you.
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Blue Sky Yoga: Where Every Breath Brings You Closer to Your Best Self!
ONE SHINING MOMENT: In culmination of his year as chairman of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Committee, Tom Burnett (at left) presents the 2022 NCAA Final Four championship trophy to Kansas coach Bill Self (at right) as Jim Nantz of CBS presides over the postgame ceremony at the Caesars Superdome. (Photo courtesy NCAA)
NATCHITOCHES – Longtime Southland Conference commissioner Tom Burnett, a Louisiana Tech alumnus who also was a Sun Belt Conference administrator, is the 2024 winner of the Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award presented by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame.
Burnett spent over 19 years in the Southland’s top post, and capped his tenure with the league as the 2022 chairman of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Committee that runs March Madness culminating with the Final Four. On June 22 at the Hall of Fame’s 2024 Induction Ceremony in Natchitoches, the West Monroe High School graduate will become the 23rd recipient of the Dixon Award since its inception in 2005, and will be enshrined in the Hall.
The Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award has been presented annually by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s 40-member Hall of Fame selection committee to an individual who has played a decisive role as a sports leader or administrator benefiting Louisiana and/or bringing credit to Louisiana on the national and international level.
It is named in honor of the 1999 LSHOF inductee, an entrepreneur and innovator who is credited as the key figure in bringing an NFL franchise to New Orleans, and the development of the Caesars Superdome, highlighting an array of sports-related endeavors.
Burnett emerged from a ballot showcasing 26 noteworthy nominees for the Dixon Award.
Beginning under the tutelage of Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame sports information director Keith Prince, as a student Burnett worked primarily with Louisiana Tech’s football, men’s basketball and baseball programs, and became Tech’s assistant SID briefly following graduation.
He soon accepted a communications position with the American South Conference, headquartered in the New Orleans suburb of Metairie.The American South merged into the Sun Belt Conference as that Tampa, Fla.-based league relocated in 1991 to the New Orleans area, its home ever since. Before the Sun Belt grew into a football-based conference, his duties expanded to include oversight of numerous championships, including track and field, baseball and basketball.
Moving up the ladder to associate commissioner, Burnett was involved with local Sugar Bowl game operations and served on local New Orleans host committees for Super Bowl XXXVI in 2002, and a number of NCAA basketball postseason events, including Men’s and Women’s Final Fours in the Crescent City. In 2001, Burnett helped introduce league-wide football competition into the Sun Belt, helped develop the New Orleans Bowl, and the conference’s first football-based television agreement with ESPN.
In late 2002, Burnett was selected to become the seventh commissioner of the Southland Conference, based in the north Dallas suburbs. He began a record tenure of almost 20 years as Southland commissioner, moved the headquarters to sports-centric Frisco, and expanded membership through Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas. He also restructured and resumed the long-running neutral-site Southland Conference Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament, started the league’s first comprehensive corporate sponsorship program, and negotiated numerous television agreements, including the 2020 ESPN Networks deal, the Southland’s first multi-million dollar broadcast contract.
He led the community effort in 2010 that attracted the NCAA’s Division I FCS Football Championship Game to Frisco’s Toyota Stadium, an event with an annual sellout now in its record 14th year at the same location. While at the Southland, Burnett also served on 10 various NCAA committees, councils and task forces, highlighted by a five-year term from 2017-22 on the Division I Men’s Basketball Committee.
During the later stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, he served as vice chair of the committee during the NCAA Tournament’s “controlled environment” event in Indianapolis, Ind., and led the administrative and selection processes as the committee chairman when March Madness returned to its traditional national playing sites in 2022, capped by overseeing operations at the Men’s Final Four held at the Superdome.
In May 2022, Burnett departed the conference office and started a new sports consulting and events firm, Southwest Sports Partners, LLC.
A longtime member of the National Football Foundation/College Football Hall of Fame’s Awards Committee, he was honored with the NFF’s Legacy Award in 2022, and in 2023 was presented a Distinguished Alumni Award by West Monroe High School.
Make it seven in a row for the Ruston High Bearcats (10-7) after an 79-45 drumming of Northwood-Shreveport on the road.
And the Bearcats are finding their groove at the right time with only a few days to go before District 2-5A play begin.
“Overall, it was a good effort,” Ruston High head coach Ryan Bond said. “We still have to clean up some deficiencies. With the schedule we have coming up, we have to be sharper. The great thing is we have guys that want to get better.”
Ruston amassed a 21-9 lead after the first quarter before its 40-21 lead at halftime.
Freshman Ahmad Hudson again led Ruston in scoring with 19 points on 7-of-15 shooting on the night. Senior Lonnie Dimmer added 18 points after hitting three three-pointers and going 7-of-8 from the free throw line.
Junior Aidan Anding added 14 points with three assists, while senior Zhy Scott notched a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.
The Bearcat defense turned Northwood-Shreveport over 21 times on the night, which turned into 17 points.
Ruston returns to action on the road at Calvary Baptist on Tuesday, Jan. 9. Tip off is set for 6 p.m.
Senior guard Jaliyah McWain had a stellar night for Ruston High on Friday after a 26-point performance and leading Ruston to a 76-48 win on the road at Northwood-Shreveport.
The victory gives Ruston a three-game winning streak as district play approaches.
“Tonight we played one of the most complete games we have all season,” Graf said. “We played hard for four quarters, executed on both ends, hustled through mistakes and played together. I’m really proud of this win especially not having played in a week and against the talent and athletes that Northwood has. Happy we could get the win and hoping to see these same habits and energy roll over into the next few games.”
McWain led all scorers her 26 after shooting 10-of-16 from the floor and earned a double-double after pulling down 10 rebounds. Senior Zaccheya Jackson added 16 points, while junior Ella Kate Jones finished the night with 12 points.
Ruston scored at least 20 points in quarters two, three and four.
The Lady Bearcats return to action tonight at 6 p.m. in a non-district matchup with Sterlington.
A second victim has died as a result of a shooting in Ruston on December 30 and police are seeking help in the case.
Tracy Hampton of Arcadia is the latest victim to die from the gunfire that broke out at about midnight on that Saturday morning at Park Ridge Estates, a townhouse complex off West Alabama Avenue.
Responding officers found one victim on the ground outside one of the townhouses and a second one inside an idling vehicle nearby.
Robert Thompson of Jonesboro and Tracy Hampton of Arcadia were both shot in the head, police said. Both men were taken to Northern Louisiana Medical Center and later airlifted to Ochsner LSU Health in Shreveport. Thompson died of his wounds that day.
Hampton was initially placed on life support but has since passed away as well.
The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office said Thompson was believed connected to the October homicide of Devontre “Dee” Jackson and the wounding of a second person on U.S. Highway 167 south of Quitman.
According to JPSO, at approximately 1:35 a.m. Saturday, October 7, a 911 call was received reporting a shooting between North Hodge and Quitman. By the time first responders arrived on the scene, Jackson, the driver, had died. Kurae Cottonham, of Jonesboro, was arrested on October 19 for second degree murder and attempted second degree murder. Thompson was not arrested in the Dee Jackson case, but the connection has fueled speculation the Ruston shooting is related, possibly as retaliation for the October murder.
Investigation into the Park Ridge shooting is continuing by Ruston Police. The department is asking for assistance in identifying the person or persons involved in these homicides. Police can be called direct at 318-255-4141 or tips submitted through Crime Stoppers at 318-255-1111. Callers remain anonymous and are eligible to receive a cash reward if the information given leads to an arrest or grand jury indictment.
Ruston Police are searching for a man who smashed a window and climbed into a home where he was confronted by the resident inside.
Police said the incident on New Year’s Day occurred on Eastland Avenue. The man broke out a window and climbed through it to find the resident was home. An image of the man climbing through the window was captured and police were called but he managed to escape. The victim was not harmed.
Ruston Police ask that anyone with information regarding this incident, call authorities directly at 318-255-4141 or report it through Crime Stoppers at 318-255-1111. Callers remain anonymous and could be eligible to receive a cash reward if the information given leads to an arrest or grand jury indictment.
Crime Stoppers will pay up to $2,000 for any information leading to the arrest of this suspect. For more information on Crime Stoppers, go to rustonlincolncrimestoppers.com
In September of 2022, the Louisiana State Police Special Victim’s Unit (LSP SVU) partnered with the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) to initiate a child sexual exploitation investigation. Investigators learned that a 15-year-old female was being sexually exploited via social media applications, which led to the arrest of 29-year-old Shane Cooper of Port Allen.
As the investigation progressed and with the information obtained, LSP SVU secured an arrest warrant through the 23rd Judicial District Court of Ascension Parish for computer-aided solicitation of a minor, indecent behavior with juveniles, and attempted possession of pornography involving juveniles.
On December 30, 2023, Cooper was arrested in West Baton Rouge Parish, where he was temporarily held. On January 4, 2024, Cooper was transported to and booked into the Ascension Parish Jail. The investigation remains active and ongoing. No further information is available at this time.
LSP SVU works to rescue and seek justice for the victims of crimes involving the exploitation of children and the trafficking of humans for sex or labor. The public plays an important role in identifying suspects accused of these crimes and is urged to report criminal or suspicious activity. The Louisiana State Police online reporting system is available to the public through an anonymous reporting form that is submitted to the appropriate investigators. The form can be found by visiting http://la-safe.org/ and clicking on the “Suspicious Activity” link.
Each Monday and Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com.
Monday, Jan. 8 Lincoln Parish School classes start back from winter break 11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome 5:30 p.m.: GSU women’s basketball game (Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center) 6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street) 7:30 p.m.: GSU men’s basketball game (Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center)
Tuesday, Jan. 9 10 a.m.: Storytime at Lincoln Parish Library Noon: Lincoln Parish School Board Meeting (Glen View Elementary School) 7 p.m.: Lincoln Parish Police Jury meeting (Lincoln Parish Courthouse)
Wednesday, Jan. 10 7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee) 11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome 6 p.m.: LA Tech women’s basketball game (Thomas Assembly Center)
Lady Panthers coach Fred Hearn (far right) talks to his team during a timeout on Friday against Haynesville. (Photo by T. Scott Boatright)
By T. Scott Boatright
GRAMBLING — The New Year’s celebrations continued for the Lincoln Preparatory School girls basketball team Friday night as the Lady Panthers made program history with a 55-2 win over Haynesville at the LPS Gym.
That 53-point margin of victory was the biggest ever for the Lady Panthers, who moved to 6-11 on the season.
Haynesville’s lone basket came early in the first quarter as the Lady Panthers’ smothering defense decimated the Lady Golden Hurricane (0-9) from there as Lincoln Prep built a 21-1 lead by the end of the opening stanza and a 35-2 advantage at halftime.
“It’s coming together slowly,” said Lady Panthers coach Fred Hearn. “It’s about building trust in knowing we’re going to get the ball where we want it to go. We want to get the ball to the post. That’s where we usually have the mismatch, so we just have to keep pounding the ball inside.”
Synniah Spann led Lincoln Prep with 14 points while Asijah Wright added 12, Shedreana Green chipped in with 11 and Jayleen Spann hit for eight points for the Lady Panthers.
A 35-point advantage off a Synniah Spann layup started a running clock for Lincoln Prep at the 6:45 mark of the third quarter.
The Lady Panthers pushed their lead to more than 50-points at 53-2 on a Ajah Saulsberry layup with 3:22 remaining.
Haynesville had one last chance to add to its points total with 7.4 seconds left on the clock but missed both free throws, allowing Lincoln Prep to run out the clock.
Hearn admitted it wasn’t easy keeping his squad focused in the second half but he was pleased to see his younger players get some key playing time.
“It’s hard to keep them in a game with a score like that, but they have to understand they have to keep on executing and be ready for the next game. That’s the way we treat our practices. We practice tough and go hard.
“Of course that wanes at times, but that makes It good to be able to get those young players into the game and see some success. That made it a good, overall team run. So all in all I was pleased with the effort.”
Next up for the Lady Panthers is a road game on Tuesday at Madison.
“We’ve got Madison, Ringgold and Homer over the next two weeks, so we’d love to turn that into a four-game winning streak heading into district play. That means taking things one game at a time, and it all starts Tuesday at Madison.”
Stephen Burks III poured in 16 points to help Lincoln Prep to the big home win over Haynesville. (Photo by T. Scott Boatright)
By T. Scott Boatright
GRAMBLING — Lincoln Preparatory School made it a third straight win in dominating fashion Friday night as the Panthers surged to a 55-15 over Haynesville inside the LPS Gym.
Haynesville took the opening lead with a pair of free throws 15 seconds into the contest.
The Panthers never looked back from there, going on a 15-0 run in the final 2:22 of the opening stanza to build a 24-4 lead heading into the second quarter.
By halftime, Lincoln Prep led 33-9, and having a 49-9 advantage at the end of third quarter allowed Panthers coach Antonio Hudson to put his young players on the court as the game wound down.
Hudson said the fact that his team finally had a full roster out on the court at the same time was obviously beneficial against the Golden Hurricane.
“I was talking to our coaches the other day and realized just based on things that have happened, with people being sick at different times, that we haven’t played with a full roster much at all this season,” Hudson said. “So we’re still actually in the early stages of just now trying to put it all together.
“And it’s not good that we’re in January still trying to do that, but we hold our kids accountable — hold them to a higher standard — so that’s just kind of where we are right now.”
Tre Spann and Stephen Burks led the Panthers with 16 points each, with Spann adding eight rebounds, three assists and a steal while Burks chipped in with two assists and a pair of rebounds.
The Panthers connected on seven 3-pointers, with Spann leading the way with four of those treys.
“I said at the beginning of the year that this team was learning new positions and sometimes people think replacing your departed best players is based off of scoring,” Hudson said. “That’s not how that works. Those are leadership roles and trusting in each other and doing all of the small things as well — the intangibles.
“What you’re starting to see now, and I don’t want to speak too soon, is that we’re starting to trust each other and we’re starting to trust the process. A lot of times when you have a younger team with people who haven’t played that much, it takes a little bit to start trusting in the process and believing in each other. We’re starting to play a little better, but we still have a long way to go. We’re just halfway through this thing (the season).”
Amarjae Young totaled eight points, four rebounds and a steal for the Panthers, who also received five points, six assists, five rounds and a steal from Trumarion Smith along with four points, seven boards and a swipe from Zion Hicks.
Holding such a big lead in the second half, the Panthers went to what Hudson terms their “Slo-Mo” offense, some akin to the North Carolina Tar Heels “Four Corners” offense of the 1970s.
“Haynesville has a pretty good record so far, so once we got the game in control we had to start to execute,” Hudson said. “We could have scored a bunch more points and done a lot more different things, but what about when we’re playing a district game on the road and it’s the third quarter and we need a bucket? What about being in foul trouble on the road and we need to understand how to handle that situation?
“We could have run up and down the floor a whole lot tonight, but that wouldn’t have done us any good as a team.”
That “Slo-Mo” offense often meant passing up open shots simply waiting for something even better.
“You’ve heard the saying ‘you pass up a good shot to get a great shot.’” Hudson said. “It’s knowing who you want to get the ball to in order to make a certain shot. Sometimes a player might be open, but that might be on purpose because the defense knows he might not be good at that shot.
“It’s all about learning how to play and that’s something we as coaches have been stressing. But what impressed me is we’re trying to trust in the process. That’s always a good thing. And getting a win at home in front of your home crowd is always good.”
And that big second-half lead also allowed Hudson to give some of his younger Panthers some solid playing time.
“That’s always a good thing because we’re not like bigger schools, so we don’t have the luxury of having freshman and JV and varsity — three separate practices,” Hudson said. “So sometimes in practice the younger guys don’t get as many reps because we’re working on varsity.
“So to see them be able to get into the game and have fun is definitely a good thing.”
Next up for the Panthers, now 6-7, is a road game at Madison on Tuesday.
“Madison is a scrappy team,” Hudson said. “I think they have 12 wins. So going to their place, we’ll be on the bus an hour-and-a-half or so. But that’s what I’m talking about. When we’re on the road in an environment like that, being able to tune out the crowd and not do things out of character is important.
“Teams change. Last year’s team was able to play faster. We had more weapons and all that. This team will eventually get there, but we’re just not there yet. So we’ve got to stay within what we do for us to be successful.”
On Jan. 7, 1975, Louisiana Tech played Southeastern in the program’s first game, a 59-55 loss. Fifty seasons later, the Lady Techsters won their 1,200th game to become the fifth program in NCAA women’s basketball history to reach that milestone.
LA Tech (7-9, 1-0 CUSA) used a 17-3 run to end the third quarter and held off Sam Houston (5-8, 0-1) to take the Conference USA opener 66-62 on Saturday afternoon inside the Thomas Assembly Center.
“It is a special day here to have a lot of former players back, coaches, and support staff,” said Tech head coach Brooke Stoehr. “We are only the fifth program in women’s college basketball history with 1,200 wins. That’s just an incredible milestone. So many people played a part in that, whether they were managers, players, coaches, or support staff. It is a special day to have that 1200th win on the day we celebrate the 50th anniversary.”
Outside of six points in the first two minutes of the game, both offenses would start the game cold from the field. A combined 3-13 at the media timeout, the teams quickly found their rhythm and finished 9-16 over the final five minutes.
Robyn Lee drove through the paint and spun around the Bearkat defender for a layup to tie the game with two minutes remaining. Her three-point a minute later gave the Lady Techsters a 13-12 advantage at the end of one.
Tech’s defense would step up in the second stanza, forcing Sam Houston into five turnovers. However, the Bearkat defense kept the Lady Techsters at bay. Sam Houston would take a 24-23 lead at the half.
Salma Bates Had a fast break layup to tie the game back up early in the third. On the next Sam Houston possession, Bates stole the ball from the Bearkats and took it all the way to give the Lady Techsters the lead. Sam Houston would respond with a 7-0 to retake the lead.
After Bates connected on her first three-pointer of the game, Paris Guillory gave the Lady Techsters a spark. Seeing action for the first time since Nov. 24, Guillory connected on three straight shots, two from behind the arc, to give Tech the lead for good. She caped off a 17-3 run with a layup with 30 seconds remaining in the quarter.
Sam Houston used a timeout early in the fourth after back-to-back baskets pushed the Lady Techsters’ run to 21-3. An and one by Silvia Nativi would give the Lady Techsters a 57-45 with six minutes to go. The Bearkats would not quit and used a 12-2 run over the next three minutes to make it a one-possession game.
The two teams would trade points until a missed shot by Tech with 13 seconds remaining would give Sam Houston a chance to win. The Techster defense stood tall and forced an errant shot that found its way into Jianna Morris’ hands. Two free throws by Anna Larr Roberson would seal the milestone victory.
“So excited for our group,” said Stoehr. “We didn’t finish the game very well, but when we needed to stop, we got one and made two crucial free throws. We executed the last 13 seconds the way we needed to. Our crowd got into it and wanted something to cheer for that first half. Our group responded well in the third quarter offensively. We started moving the ball, and that’s the way this group must play.”
Lee finished with a team high 16 points and seven rebounds. Amaya Brannon (11), Roberson (10), and Guillory (10) finished in double figures.
Louisiana Tech’s road woes continued on Saturday, falling to Sam Houston by a final score of 81-77 in the Conference USA opener inside Johnson Coliseum.
LA Tech (10-6, 0-1 CUSA) came into the contest having dominated the paint over the last few games. That was not the case against Sam Houston (8-8, 1-0 CUSA) who finished with a 32-18 scoring advantage in the paint.
“It was the worst defensive effort we have had all year,” said Tech head coach Talvin Hester. “It is not close. I felt like we played the worst half of basketball in the first half. Our attitude and effort was not there. We did not play with maturity. That is one thing you absolutely have to do on the road. When you do not pack your defensive and give up 81 points, you are not going to win many games.
“Their guards were beating our guards downhill and were getting second-chance points. I did not have our guys mentality prepared for the dogfight we would be in. This is always a hard place to play. Sam Houston is always physical and tough. Their numbers never truly tell you who they are as a team.”
Turnovers were also an issue for the Bulldogs, committing 14 of them which turned into 17 points for the Bearkats. And it was the home team that was the first to pull away, going on a 10-0 run to take a 20-12 advantage.
Down by 10 after Sam Houston made one of its nine three-pointers at the 7:43 mark of the first half, LA Tech ignited for a 15-2 run with seven of those points coming from Jordan Crawford off the bench.
Tyler Henry’s triple gave the ‘Dogs a 37-35 lead with 2:25 left in the stanza, but the Bearkats closed the half on an 8-3 run to take a 3-point lead into the locker room.
LA Tech quickly jumped back out in front to start the second half and built a 57-52 advantage with 11:57 to go when Tahlik Chavez buried one of his four three-pointers. That lead got erased, and despite Chavez continuing to sink jumpers the Bearkats pushed their lead back out to six which forced a timeout by head coach Talvin Hester with 4:30 to play.
The Bulldogs would get the deficit down to two after a three-pointer by Isaiah Crawford with five seconds remaining, but Lamar Wilkerson, who had a game-high 24 points, hit both free throws to seal the win for the Bearkats.
Chavez finished with a team-high 20 points while Henry (13), I. Crawford (12), and J. Crawford (11) joined him in double figures.
Jalen Johnson had a big day for Grambling State, scoring a team-high 20 points. His performance helped guide GSU to a 69-63 win over Prairie View A&M in its Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) opener on Saturday afternoon at the Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center.
Johnson was also dominant on the boards, snatching a game-high eight rebounds and making two steals.
The victory improved GSU to 4-10 overall and 1-0 in SWAC play. PVAMU fell to 5-9 and 0-1 in the conference.
The first half was a close affair. With the score tied 15-12 with 9:42 remaining in the opening period, Grambling State used a 13-2 run over the next eight minutes to craft a 25-17 lead just before halftime. The Tigers held a 25-21 lead at the break.
After a layup by the Tigers to open the second half, PVAMU’s Charles Smith drained back-to-back 3-pointers tying the game 27-27 with 18:03 to go. That would be the last time the Panthers would be level with the Tigers as GSU scored the next seven points to grab a 34-27 advantage at the 15:56 mark.
Prairie View did pull within one point of the Tigers, 38-37, with 11:10 to play. Grambling took control of the game from that point, however.
Following a pair of free throws, a thunderous dunk by Jourdan Smith gave the Tigers 42-37 cushion with 10:19 to go. After trading buckets back-and-forth, and the Panthers trailing 44-41, GSU began to shake free of the pesky Panthers.
Grambling State embarked on a 17-6 run capped by a 3-pointer from Smith that gave the Tigers its largest lead of the contest, 61-47, with 4:04 remaining.
Prairie View A&M tried to rally late but the Tigers proved too much, securing the 69-63 triumph.
Funeral services for Lisa Yvonne Fuqua, 57, will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday January 9, 2024 at Temple Baptist Church Chapel in Ruston under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Homes of Ruston. Interment will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery in Ruston. Dr. Reggie Bridges and Brother Dale Oden will officiate the services.
Lisa Yvonne Fuqua, born on November 17, 1966, of Ruston, Louisiana, was sent to be with her Heavenly Father on January 5, 2024. Lisa is survived by her parents, Rodney and Betty Fuqua, and her brother Keith Fuqua. She is also survived by her two nieces, Mary-Taylor and Maggie Fuqua, as well as her nephew Hayes Fuqua. All those fortunate enough to know Lisa, loved her. She was an absolute light that brightened every room she entered. Lisa throughout her life never met a stranger, she always welcomed everyone with a big ear to ear smile following a loving hug. She viewed the world with such optimism and purity. Lisa found joy in cheering on her nieces and nephew as well as the LSU Tigers, and New Orleans Saints. She also took pleasure in the little things from coloring in coloring books, watching shows with her parents, and singing at the top of her lungs to songs sung by her favorite artist: Elvis Presley. Above all else, Lisa loved the Lord. Right now there is no doubt in everyone’s minds that Lisa is laughing and singing with predeceased family members!
“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God. And trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.” John 14:1-3
Pallbearers will be Tony Fuqua, Curt Fuqua, Steve Alexander, Don Beasley, Bruce Ayres, and John Richmond
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lisa’s memory to Special Olympics, or Temple Baptist Church.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at 10:00 A.M. with service to follow at 11:00 A.M. at Temple Baptist Church Chapel in Ruston.
Lisa Yvonne Fuqua November 17, 1966 – January 5, 2024 Visitation: Tuesday, January 9, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, Temple Baptist Church Chapel, 1515 South Service Road, Ruston Funeral Service: Tuesday, January 9, 2024, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, Temple Baptist Church Chapel, 1515 South Service Road, Ruston Cemetery Committal: Tuesday, January 9, 2024, 12:30 PM, Forest Lawn Cemetery, 2500 West California Ave, Ruston
Christopher L. Melton Monday 01/17/1977 — Saturday 12/30/2023 Family Gathering: Thursday 01/11/2024 2:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Visitation: Thursday 01/11/2024 3:00pm to 5:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Celebration of Life: Friday 01/12/2024 1:00pm, Macedonia Baptist Church #2, 489 E Sibley Rd, Choudrant
