USM Community Reacts to Shooting of Student Athletes

The Southern Mississippi football team was in high spirits after their victory at conference rival and #24 in the nation Central Florida. Some players went out to celebrate in Hattiesburg after they returned home, and the night turned from celebration to tragedy. USM linebackers Martez Smith and Tim Green and defensive end Deddrick Jones were all shot outside of Remington's Hunt Club in Hattiesburg during the early hours of Sunday, November 14. The three players have been listed by the university as in fair to good condition since the shooting. As a result of the shooting, Martez Smith is currently paralyzed from the waist down, and Tim Jones cannot speak because of undisclosed injuries suffered in the shooting. As a proud Golden Eagle, I went around campus in the days after this tragic event to see how the university family is copping with this harrowing situation. For the latest information regarding the Southern Miss Football Team, visit the team homepage at Golden Eagle Football. For the latest breaking news about the shooting and other issues in Hattiesburg, MS, visit the Hattiesburg American website at Hattiesburg American.

Southern Miss Women's Basketball Preview

The Southern Miss Women's Basketball team tips the season off this Friday November 12th at Reed Green Coliseum in Hattiesburg. The Lady Eagles had a tough season last year, but they look to rebound this season with some senior leadership and solid freshman play. Head Coach Joye McNelis says the team has a motto of "Uncommon" this year to motivate players to step their game up. I caught up with Coach McNelis after their blowout win in a scrimmage against Mobile 80-49. For more information on the Lady Eagles and their schedule, go to the Southern Miss Lady Eagles' website at Southern Miss Women's Basketball

USM Baseball Black & Gold Game

The Southern Miss baseball team had a magical ride to the College World Series in 2009. Support for the Golden Eagles had never been better. Some fans may have drifted away from the diamond, but there are still very loyal fans of Southern Miss baseball. I went out to the inter squad Black & Gold Game on Halloween and talked to some fans that attend every home baseball game. Last season the team went 31-21 in the regular season. They won the Conference USA tournament, and received a bid to play in a regional at Auburn. Unfortunately for the eagles, they were eliminated from the regional to end their season. Fans are hopeful that the Golden Eagles can make a run at a good season this year. If you would like more information on the team visit Southern Miss Baseball