Houston Roundball Review Archive: February 2007 Willis, Morris, and Zo after 70-55 win over Southern Miss

Wednesday, February 7, 2007

HOUSTON, TX (Autry Court) -- Wednesday night, the Rice Owls defeated Southern Miss 70 to 55 before a sparse crowd of 1,305 fans at Rice University's Autry Court.

Morris Almond, "Mr. Efficient", led the Owls with 35 points.

Why do I refer to Morris as "Mr. Efficient"?

He scored those 35 points on just 21 field goal attempts.

He made 14 of those shots (including 4 for 4 from three); and, he was a perfect three for three from the foul line.

A scout for the NBA's Indiana Pacers attended last night's game to see Morris.

The scout was very impressed by Morris' performance.

Rice (12-10, 6-3) led 30 to 22 at the half.

Southern Miss (14-8, 4-5) entered the game as one of the best defensive teams in C-USA.

Well, the Owls carved up the Golden Eagles' defense in the first half by hitting 59.1% (13 for 22) from the field.

To prove the first half showing was no fluke, Rice shot 57.7% (15 for 26) from the field in the second half.

Owls' senior point guard Lorenzo Williams scored 11 points and added four assists and three rebounds.

Southern Miss pulled within five points (43 to 38) at the 12:47 mark of the second half; however, Rice went on a 12 to 3 scoring run during the next three minutes to put the game away.

Listen to the Owls' post-game press conference featuring Morris, Lorenzo, and head coach Willis Wilson: Rice 70, Southern Miss 55.

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