Unleashing Basketball Brilliance - SIUE's Nonconference Climax

Ray’Sean Taylor's Half - Time Heroics

Ray’Sean Taylor truly shone in the first half, scoring 18 points on an astonishing six three - pointers. His shooting spree set the tone for the Cougars, as they went on a 12 - 0 scoring run to take a commanding 30 - 13 lead with 7:37 remaining. His performance was a key factor in establishing a significant advantage for SIUE and demonstrated his scoring prowess.

Not only did Taylor's three - pointers light up the scoreboard, but his impact extended beyond just points. His aggressive play inspired the team and set the tempo for the rest of the game. His ability to find the range from beyond the arc was a sight to behold and left the Eureka defense scrambling.

Multiple Double - Digit Scorers

Four SIUE players scored in double figures, highlighting the team's offensive depth. Jordan Pickett had a career - high 17 points, shooting 4 - 7 overall and 3 - 6 from three - point range. Ring Malith continued his scoring streak with 16 points, marking his fourth consecutive double - digit game. Cham Okey recorded his first career double - double with 11 points and a game - high 11 rebounds, both career bests.

Desmond Polk scored nine points and Brian Taylor II added eight points, contributing to the team's offensive firepower. Kyle Thomas made his season debut, contributing six points and two blocks in just over nine minutes. Jorda Hamilton also added six points, showing the team's balanced scoring attack. With 10 of 13 players scoring and adding a rebound or an assist, it was a true team effort.

Second Half Dominance

The second half opened with a 19 - 4 run by the Cougars, extending their lead to 37 points at 69 - 32 after a layup from Polk with 14:26 to play. SIUE's defense tightened up, limiting Eureka to just 24 second half points. They outrebounded the Red Devils 41 - 34 and scored 36 points in the paint compared to Eureka's 16.

This second half dominance was a testament to the team's resilience and ability to maintain their lead. The Cougars' defensive intensity and offensive execution were on full display, making it clear that they were the superior team on the day. Their ability to control the game both on the offensive and defensive ends was a key factor in their victory.

SIUE now opens Ohio Valley Conference play Thursday at preseason favorite Little Rock with a 7 p.m. tipoff. The team will look to carry their momentum from this nonconference win into the conference season and continue their success.