Falcons flying high once again

Coach Todd Franklin has four sophomores leading the way this season for the 7 and 2 Southeastern Illinois Falcons in the always tough GRAC (Great Rivers Athletic Conference).

Desmond Stephens, a 5-foot-9 (150) point guard from Bloomington, IN, is having a great season so far. Stephens is the starting point guard who does some of the scoring for the Falcons. Desmond transferred over from conference foe Olney Central College where he averaged 12.1 ppg last season. This season for SIC Stephens is at 18.1 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game.

"He has gotten back on the radar. He is super quick and can really shoot the three," said coach Franklin.

His recruitment is wide open and ranges from a lot of levels.

Josh Rivers, 6-foot-0 (170) combo guard from Las Vegas, NV is averaging 10.7 points this season.

"Josh has improved his game and he has gotten stronger over the summer. He really hasnt shot the ball like we want him to."

Texas San Antonio and some OVC schools are calling.

Jason Francis, 6-foot-9 (280) center from Jamaica. Francis is a third year player for SE Illinois. He redshirted last year for the Falcons. He will need 60% requirements towards his degree to leave.

"Jason is working off the rust from sitting out last year and he stays well with the pace of the game," Franklin said.

Currently he's at 7.8 points and 6.7 rebounds in about 18-20 minutes a night for Southeastern. Francis visited Rutgers in the early period and St Johns has inquired. Rutgers offered the big power forward.

Olajide Hay, 6-foot-5 (240) power forward from Henderson, KY. Hay was primarily the 6th man last season now sees himself averaging 13 points per night and 9.3 rebounds this season.

"Olajide only played one year of high school ball," Franklin pointed out. "He plays really well versus good competition and he's very effective in the high post from 12-15 feet in."

Franklin's players nearly always wait until the spring to sign.