WANT A JOB?
Make it count p.2
Vol. 62, I ssue 1
Dance theater p.4
WE’RE HIRING! SEE P.2
Emotional abuse p.6
Vol. 63, Issue 10
MEAC
p.8 08.29.14
03.25.16
MCJR bids farewell to two beloved professors by Shareen Nicholson
Dr. Stanley Tickton
Dr. Paula Briggs
by Antonio Garland The Department of Mass Communications and Journalism at Norfolk State University is currently planning its annual MCJR Week, a week-long event that centers on mass communications and journalism topics. This year’s conference will be April 4-7. MCRJ Week includes guest speakers, online/ interactive presentations, and panel discussions. It brings in alumni to share
their experiences and knowledge of the media with the next generation of students who aspire to enter the media or communication-related fields. Last year’s MCJR Week featured guest speakers such as Iisha Scott, from WVEC 13 News, and Katie Barrie, who has worked with PBS, CBS and WCTV. Alumni speakers included Phil Thornton and Jonathan Mason. Network television anchors and Pulitzer Prize winning authors
The Department of Mass Communications and Journalism is preparing to say goodbye to two of its most memorable professors. Dr. Stanley Tickton and Dr. Paula Briggs will retire at the end of this semester. Both professors have been teaching at Norfolk State for more than twenty years. While at Norfolk State, both
professors have had major involvement with the university’s radio station, WNSB-FM. Dr. Tickton served as the Supervisor, Managem e n t -A d m i n i s t ra t i o n from 1976 through 1981. In addition, he was instrumental in the founding of the station. Dr. Briggs served as the station’s Public Affairs Director from 2002 through 2005.
Dr. Tickton began his media career as a radio producer-director at WOAKFM, Royal Oak, MI. He has also served as producer-director at WHA-TV, Channel 21, Madison, WI. He has also produced and directed live 30 and 60 minute programs over WWTC-TV, Cadillac, MI, and WPBNTV, Traverse City, MI. He continued on p. 2
NSU prepares for MCJR Week, April 4-7 have keynoted previous conferences. According to NSU professor Dr. Morgan Kirby, MCJR Week provides students an environment where students can receive inspiration, advice and thought provoking messages from industry professionals. “I would love to see students from all over the campus attend,” said Kirby. This year marks the 41st anniversary of MCJR Week. continued on p. 2
MCJR week allows students the opportunity to attend workshops, network, and gain more information regarding their future in the Mass Communications/Journalism field. Photo by Tyra Whitney.
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu
03.25.16
spartan news
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MCJR bids farewell continued from front
served as the executive producer and producer-director at WSIU-TV, Channel 8, SIU Broadcasting Service and SIITA (Southern Illinois Instructional Television Association) and served as their acting production manager. Dr. Tickton is very active in many organizations. He has served as the National Historian of the National Broadcasting Society (NBS) since 2001. He also
served as a board member of the Virginia Association of Communication Arts and Sciences, 1982-1994 and 1995-2003. Dr. Tickton is best known for his no-nonsense MCM 440 mass communications law class, which many students in the department claim was the class where they learned the most. Returning alumni still talk about it decades after graduation. He also teaches media management as continued from front Events Include: *Monday, April 4* Kickoff Mixer and Registration - 6 PM Keynote Speaker - 7 PM Derek Blanks, Celebrity Photographer Student Center, Room 138ABC/149
MCJR Week
well as programming. Since 2001, he has served as the Coordinator of the Graduate Program in Media and Communications. Dr. Briggs’ began her media career as a news photographer. She shot and edited news for KOMU-TV, Columbia, MO; WRAL-TV, Raleigh, NC; and WTKR-TV, Norfolk, VA. She also produced newscasts at KOMUTV. Dr. Briggs worked in radio as well. She produced vignettes for NPR affiliate KBIA-FM in Columbia, MO and produced and anchored newscasts at
WRAP-FM in Portsmouth, VA. She has been recognized for her work by local and national broadcasting organizations. Dr. Briggs is very active in broadcast organizations. She serves on a variety of advisory boards. Not only does Dr. Briggs serve as the Diversity Chairperson for the National Broadcasting Society (NBS), but she has been the advisor to the NSU chapter of The National Broadcasting Society-Alpha Epsilon Rho (NBS-AERho) for the past 20 years.
Here at NSU, she is known for her love of production. She teaches many courses including TV Production, Electronic Field Producing and Editing, TV Directing, Audio Production, and Advanced TV Production. “Dr. Briggs is not just a teacher. She’s a mentor, who cares about the well being of her students. She goes out of her way to help her students in any way that she can,” said senior mass communications major Tyeka Bailey.
*Tuesday, April 5* Panel Discussion. 9:30 am, 11 am, 1:30 pm and 3 PM Student Center, Room 138 BC *Tuesday Night* The Director’s Cut Film Screening, Room 138 ABC 6:30 PM
*Wednesday, April 6* The Catalyst Skills Boot Camp 10 AM - 5 PM Must register to attend. Student Center, Room 138 ABC Wednesday Night The Green Room: Industry Insiders Dish on What It Takes to Make It in a Digital World
Student Center, Room 149 *Thursday, April 7* MCJR Alumni Panels 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Student Center, Room 138BC Visit www.nsumcjr.com for detailed information.
Want a job after graduation? You’ll need experience and we can provide it. Want a job in the media after graduation? Want to work in a communication-related field? If so, you’ll need more than a degree; you’ll need samples of work product you can show a potential employer and related experience listed on your resume…preferably two or more years of it. That’s where the Spartan Echo comes in. Any major going into any field can work for the Echo and build a portfolio of their
writing, photography, and/ or graphic design work. If you do that over time, you can even list the experience on a resume. Just come to one of our staff meetings on any Tuesday or Thursday of the academic semester at 12:30 p.m. in room 344 of the Student Center. Introduce yourself and get involved. You can even take the work you do for us and tie it back into your major. PoliSci? Write us an election story. Chemistry?
Tell our audience about the dangers of chemical additives in our food and cosmetics. Business? Tell students how to get that small business started while they’re still in school. PreMed? Tell us how to eat healthier and stay fit. A student in any major can benefit greatly from being a published author. The topics and needs are endless and as varied and wide as the entire university, so we hope to see you soon and help you contribute.
In addition, if you already have skills in these areas, you possibly can get paid for doing it while still in school. Apply today for a position with the Spartan Echo as a writing, multimedia or graphic design editor. If you’re a student at NSU, you’re guaranteed an opportunity to interview for the job, and—let’s face it—opportunities don’t get much better than that. Applications are available online at http://
www.nsu.edu/Assets/ websites/student-activities/Student-Publication-Forms/ Spartan-Echo-Publication-Application.doc. Applications are accepted via e-mail at seopfer@ nsu.edu. Send your application today for an editor position…or just come and join us at our next staff meeting to see how you might get involved with the Echo. Either way, we look forward to meeting you!
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu
03.25.16
spartan opinion
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Every vote matters; make it count African Americans did not always have the opportunity to freely vote. Many fought and protested for equal opportunities at a great price to themselves and their families. Voting is so important because, not only as an African American, but as an American citizen, your vote is your voice. It is your moment to be heard and to hold elected officials accountable for their
An editorial by Tyeka M. Bailey
decisions and it’s your opportunity to voice your opinions on the many issues that affect the community you live in. It is very important to elect a leader that will stand for your rights no matter your race, sexual orientation or religion because this will be the person who will represent America for the next four years. The elected candidate represents issues
such as healthcare, education, women’s rights, taxes and much more, so every vote matters. “The vote is the most powerful instrument ever devised by man for breaking down injustice and destroying the terrible walls which imprison men because they are different from other men,” said President Lyndon Johnson, who signed America’s famous Civil Rights legisla-
tion. The 26th Amendment gives citizens of the United States who are eighteen years of age or older the right to vote and not be denied by the United States or by any state on account of age. Exercising your right to vote allows you to set examples for younger generations to come. In order for change to take place regarding different issues, your voice has to be heard.
There was a time in this country where people died for the right to vote, so voting makes a difference, whether someone believes it does or not. Some countries do not allow citizens to vote for people to represent them, but we are a country built on the rights of citizens to choose their representatives, so why not use your right? Make it count.
Where’s the spirit? Why Spartans need to support NSU athletics An editorial by Shareen Nicholson Time and time again, the various sports seasons roll by from football, basketball, track and everything in between. Although the sports change, one thing has been constant… the lack of attendance and support at the games. There’s an unsettling feeling attending a basketball game on campus and seeing majority of the seats in Echols empty. Of course students have class, work, and sometimes even extracurricular activities but with the amount of students on campus, the numbers could be better. On some occasions, it seems as though the alumni will outnumber the students. However, there are specific games that are al-
ways sure to guarantee a full house, such as “Battle of the Bay” games against Hampton University. The “Battle of the Bay” game against the pirates of Hampton University was held on Thursday, Mar. 3, 2016 and as usual the game was packed. This was the sixth straight year that the game has sold out at Echols Hall. There was no seating left in the gym as students from both schools ventured around scoping and observing. While many attend this game for the rivalry, it seems like most students go to see, and be seen. According to flyers posted the game was supposed to be a “gold-out” for Spartan fans, but most students chose to dress to
impress instead. The legion pep band kept the fans roaring as they helped gather some support and excitement from fans. Including doing the notorious “wave” that sent a ripple of fans waving their arms throughout and around the gym. A big highlight of the game seemed to be a cheer off between the cheerleaders of both schools. Norfolk State’s cheerleaders brought their “A” game and received cheers and claps from fans of both universities. The support that this game gets makes many wonder, why can’t we get that same support and turn out for all of the other games during the sea-
son? The impact that an increase in fan support could offer for athletes is unthinkable. Athletes thrive off of fan support and participation, yet it seems to be a struggle to get students to attend games. All current NSU students get into all home games free with a valid ID. With that being said, there’s no reason that there shouldn’t be larger crowds attending games and supporting fellow Spartans. As I sat and observed the crowd, at what was my last home game, and “Battle of the Bay” game as a student, it dawned on me that I would miss all that NSU games have to offer. The dancing students in the crowds, the sound of the Legion playing the latest hits, the an-
ticipation during close calls and games, and the feeling of watching each team bring home a victory after playing their hearts out. It’s a euphoric feeling that shouldn’t be taken for granted. I urge all Spartan fans, alumni, students, and faculty and staff to support NSU athletics! That includes all sports, football, basketball, cross country, tennis, track and field, bowling, softball, and even volleyball! All of these teams work hard and deserve a little support from their fellow students. The Norfolk State men’s basketball team won 8363 over the pirates in the season finale. The Spartans tied for second at 12-4 in the MEAC regular season.
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu
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spartan entertainment
03.25.16
Dance Theatre lives on by Rachael Parker
Norfolk State University’s Dance Theatre was founded in the early 1960’s. Former program director Inez Howard served the program for 40 years. The current program director Dr. Tarin Hampton strives to maintain the organization’s legacy of black dance. Despite the change in leadership, the vision and goal of this program lives on and is a beacon for those who want to express themselves through dance.
Black dance can range from Jazz to African. This organization’s dance style varies but is not limited to Modern, Hip Hop, and Liturgical, all starting from Dunham technique. Assisting alongside with Dr. Hampton is Mrs. Valerie Winbourne who is the Co-artistic director and former co-director of Bush Women Organization. Mrs. Winborne helps coordinate professional performances with the Dance Theatre. Students then
have the opportunity to network and work closely with dance professionals. Numerous conferences are held throughout the year including events with the legendary Alvin Ailey Dance Company. “Alvin Ailey’s Dance Company performance was amazing we had a chance to attend one their private practices” said Angel Curry, a member of the organization. Furthermore, students can take the initiative to
extend a warm welcome to other NSU student organizations such Urban Control, Student Government Association, and the School of Education. Dance Theatre recently participated in the Black Nativity musical and collaborated with Urban Control in the Theatre’s Black History Month showcase. Auditions are held once a semester even for students with little to no experience. The organization currently holds a total
of 13 active members, each member is selected based on an audition piece, personality, and willingness to perform. In efforts to raise money for new costumes and travel expenses, Dance Theatre also conducts many fundraising events. It is safe to say that NSU’s Dance Theatre is yet another organization on campus that serves as an ambassador of culture.
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu
03.25.16
spartan entertainment
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An exclusive interview with Theater Director Anthony Stockard
Stockard speaking at a NSU Theatre Event featuring the cast of “what your man won’t do” photo from www.flickr.com/photos/nsu_spartans.
by Aegious Perkins Norfolk State’s Theater Director, Professor Anthony Stockard, sat down with the Spartan Echo to give NSU a closer look at some aspects of his life and the NSU Theatre. Spartan Echo: Where are you from? Anthony Stockard: I am from Toledo, Ohio. Spartan Echo: Where did you attend college? Anthony Stockard: Alabama State University for
my undergraduate studies and I attended Brandeis University for my graduate studies. I majored in Theater for both degrees. Spartan Echo: Did you participate in theater in High School? When did you start gaining an interest in theater? Anthony Stockard: I started theater in high school, but I didn’t realize what it was at the time. It was an after school prevention program for encouraging positive behaviors in youth. We did skits and things of that nature. It was called SETT, it stood for “Self Expression Teen Theater.” I didn’t realize what it was at the time, but it was fun so I kept doing it. Spartan Echo: How long have you been working at Norfolk State University? Anthony Stockard: This is my second year at Norfolk State. I arrived in the Fall of 2014. Spartan Echo: Where were you prior to here?
Anthony Stockard: I was at Alabama State University. I was invited back to my Alma Mater to teach and I taught there for five years before taking this position. Spartan Echo: What was your first show with the NSU Theater? Anthony Stockard: The Whitney Houston Tribute was our first show. We had a wonderful audience. I do surveys to see where we are with our goals. At that time about 80 or 90 percent of the audience had either never seen a theater show here before or had never even stepped foot on campus. Spartan Echo: How do you feel about the success of the NSU theater? Anthony Stockard: For the success of the theater in general, I could not have projected that it would have happened this quickly. I set a lot of goals, some of them were already presented to me, such as helping to design the new the-
ater. After our first show, you would have thought we were running this for forever. Spartan Echo: What awards has the theater received? Anthony Stockard: They have national recognitions. The National Black Theater Festival happens once every other year and we submitted The Brothers Size and it was picked up. Their board consists of actors such as Denzel Washington, Cicely Tyson, and Morgan Freeman among dozens of other people. And it is supposed to be for professional productions, it is not for university productions although they are permitted to submit. Only two universities, including us, in the entire country were selected. We sent The Brothers Size for consideration for the Kennedy Center. They responded saying that we had the highest review of any production in the South East Region of the
US. We were given notice that we had been selected over hundreds of Graduate and Undergraduate universities. There were only 6 universities selected in the South Region. Spartan Echo: What is upcoming for NSU theater? Anthony Stockard: TONS!! Up next we will be working along with student affairs in presenting the pageant. This summer we are doing an encore performance of For Colored Girls in June. In the fall we are going to start off with an off Broadway comedy No Child. It is a laugh out loud hilarious romp about the public school system and the residual effects of the No Child Left Behind Law. After that we are going to kick off homecoming with a tribute to Luther Vandross. In the spring, we are going to do a Pulitzer Prize winning show called Ruined. It is a drama dealing with women in Africa.
Our President’s Schedule
Wednesday, March 30, 2-5 p.m. Student Office Hours (Student Center, room 331) Wednesday, April 13, 2-5 p.m. Student Office Hours (Student Center, room 331)
HOW TO REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT TO MEET WITH THE PRESIDENT Appointments to meet with President Moore can be requested by completing the APPOINTMENT REQUEST FORM 2015-2016 form at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ BLH9CZY. Identify at least two (2) dates and times at least three (3) business days in advance of your preferred date and time. The request will be forwarded to the President’s Office for review and scheduling. Reasonable efforts to provide a confirmation of the appointment date/time or an alternate within 48 hours of the request will be made.
Student Office Hours: Current students can request a 30-minute appointment with the President in his satellite office at the Student Center. Faculty and Staff Office Hours: Current employees can request a 30-minute appointment with the President in his satellite office at the Student Center.
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu
spartan lifestyle
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03.25.16
Facing and Conquering Emotional Abuse by Tiana K. Allen Emotional abuse is something that many know the basics about but do not understand the severity of it. There are many people who cannot tell that they are in an emotionally abusive relationship and do not understand that there are safe ways to get out those situations. If you feel as if you have to tip toe around your significant other to prevent them from being upset with you, then you should see that as a warning sign. If you find yourself being belittled, that is another sign. Here are a list of signs to look out for to determine if you or a loved one are in an emotionally abusive relationship. 1.Humiliating or embarrassing you 2.Constant put-downs 3.Hypercriticism 4.Refusing to communicate
5.Ignoring or excluding you 6.Extramarital affairs 7.Provocative behavior with opposite sex 8.Use of sarcasm and unpleasant tone of voice 9.Unreasonable jealousy 10.Extreme moodiness 11.Mean jokes or constantly making fun of you 12.Saying “I love you, but…” 13.Saying things like “If you don’t ___, I will ___.” 14.Domination and control 15.Withdrawal of affection 16.Guilt trips 17.Making everything your fault 18.Isolating you from friends and family 19.Using money to control 20.Constant calling or texting when you are not with him/her 21.Threatening to com-
mit suicide if you leave If any of these signs sound familiar to you, you may need to consider that you are in an emotionally abusive relationship. There are ways to get out of your significant other’s controlling grip. You need to reestablish your power. Leave the relationship if you feel that there will be no positive change. Assert your limits. If you do not appreciate your partner’s comments, then speak up and tell them. Let them know that you do not appreciate being talked down to. Also, you may want to hear their side too. Let them know that you are willing to hear what they have to say, if they say it in a respectful manner. You need to be transparent with your partner and yourself. Evaluate your goals, needs, and values and make sure that your partner knows that you
Young entrepreneur spotlight
by Meleah Holmes
For many Americans creating their own daily schedule, without having to answer to a boss or a superior is a distant dream. Photo from facebook.com/tashabaldock/photos.
If you had to decide between punching a clock and creating your own daily work schedule which would you choose? For many Americans creating their own daily schedule, without having to answer to a boss or a superior is a distant dream. Many love idea of being self-employed, but few are actually taking the initiative to become their own boss; fewer are willing to put in the hard work and long hours that are required to become self-employed. Reginald F. Land, a 20 year old business major at Norfolk State Universi-
will not let them hinder you from reaching them. Lastly, you need to take time to celebrate yourself. Surround yourself with people who want nothing but the best for you and treat you as you deserve. With the positive reinforcement around you, you will learn how you deserve to be treated and should let that reflect into your relationship.
Emotional abuse follows a pattern; it is repeated and sustained. If left unchecked, abuse does not get better over time. It only gets worse. Photo from m.facebook. com/1507246592914302/photos.
ty says that his drive came from having two parents who were entrepreneurs. Seeing his parents own their own business at such a young age pushed him to want to own his own business. Reginald started RFL consulting LLC, a consulting company dedicated to providing marketing solutions and helping his peers take their talents to the next level. Reginald has done internships and shadows professionals in the consulting business so that he will be better prepared in the future to take his business to the next level. Ana Feliciano-Chase, a 22 year old Fine arts major at Norfolk State University is the owner of Nails by
Ana, a business that she has been running for owner 4 years. Ana’s motivation to start her own business is the poor treatment she received while she was working for someone else’s business. This mistreatment lead her to start her very successful business where she could flourish and help others flourish in the process. It’s important to have a mapped out plan of how you want your business to run & a future plan for where you want your business to go. Some advice that any young entrepreneur should carry with them is to never get distracted, and to keep your eyes on the prize.
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu
03.25.16
spartan lifestyle
Excel your writing with the Creative Writing Club by Antonio Garland
At NSU, writing is a form of art. NSU’s Creative Writing Club (CWC) is a student organization that features a collective of artists and writers throughout the campus who gather to share their works and to provide and receive constructive feedback on written works from their peers. It caters to anyone who respects, likes and understands writing. The CWC looks at nearly any type of written work, which includes poems, short stories, novel chapters, spoken words, song lyrics, fictional, nonfic-
tional and news articles. It also provides writers the opportunity to communicate and network with one another. “Whatever type of creative writing that you do, you can bring it in and we’ll just share,” said Clifford Rhodes, a senior English and creative writing concentration major and former president of the CWC. “It’s not an attacking space, it’s not a hostile space. It’s a family environment, so it’s great. Anyone can come out. It’s inclusive, not exclusive.” The CWC provides a family atmosphere that
warmly welcomes new members. From professionals to those starting out, anyone can join the Creative Writing Club, which requires no fees or membership sign ups. The CWC provides information about creative writing events, such as open mics and poetry readings in the area. It also gives a chance to become involved with CWC functions, such as the William Carroll Writers Festival and The Norfolk Review. “When you have something that’s really dear to you, like your art, you feel comfortable enough to ex-
press it with other people. You begin to connect with other people,” said Rhodes. “In particular, I’d like to see more of our members be published in literary journals and entering contest,” said NSU professor and CWC advisor, Dr. Gary Wilkens, who expressed his hopes for the club’s future. “I’d like to found a dedicated Submission Club to assist members who want to see their work in print.” The CWC meets every Thursday at 3:00 P.M. in Madison Hall room 202.
Beauty on a budget: DIY at-home spa tricks by Tiana K. Allen
For those of you who feel the need for a spa day, but you lack access to a spa or are low on cash, there are some easy DIY spa tricks that are sure to give you some TLC. Here are some at home-spa recipes that you can indulge in and turn every night into a spa night. Rose Water: Rose water can be used as a toner and has awesome astringent properties. All you need to do is have a bowl with one cup of rose petals and pour two boiling cups of water over them. You will need to cover and soak the water until it has cooled
out. Squeeze out the water from the petals and refrigerate the rose water in between your uses. Blended Facial Masks: Chafed skin can be so irritating, so create a hydrating facial mask with your blender! Blend together cold cream, yogurt, honey, aloe Vera gel, and avocado. Apply the mixture to your face and let dry for 15 to 20 minutes before you rinse. Warm Lotion: A quick tip and a spa hack, try placing your lotion on top of a radiator or heating vent while you shower. When you get out of the shower, you will love the feel of the
warm lotion as you moisturize your body. Be aware of the lotion’s liquidly potential. In-Home Sauna: You can turn your shower into a sauna by leaving your shower running on its hottest temperature for 20 minutes. Spray your favorite relaxing oil on a washcloth, and when you step into your shower, put the cloth up to your face and breath in. It’s also a great way to clear up sinuses. Soft Hands in 1-2-3: Mix together a few spoonfuls of cold cream, two drops of tea tree oil, five drops of lavender oil, a spoonful of olive oil, and a banana
into a blender. When the mixture is smooth, cover your hands in it and throw on a pair of rubber gloves. Let it soak in for a while and then rinse off for soft, smooth hands. Extra-virgin Olive Oil: Apply a few teaspoons of 100% extra-virgin olive oil onto your freshly cleansed face and neck to repair and rejuvenate your skin. Apply in circular motions before you apply your night cream. Another tip for the oil: eat it! Take two teaspoons daily to boost your immune system.
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editors
Shareen Nicholson Editor-in-Chief
Mahogany Waldon
Online/Managing Editor
Tyeka Bailey News Editor
Meleah Holmes Lifestyle Editor
Aegious Perkins Lifestyle Editor
Tyra Whitney
Multimedia Editor
Sarah Jefferson Deputy Graphic Design/Layout Editor
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu
spartan sports
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03.25.16
Spartans fall short in MEAC basketball tournament by Shareen Nicholson
Despite overcoming a 21-point deficit against South Carolina State the Spartans fell short in the final seconds of the game. Photo by Keith Cephus.
As many would have hoped, the match-up game many fans hoped for failed to happen this season. Despite overcoming a 21-point deficit against South Carolina State the Spartans fell short in the final seconds of the game. The No. 2 seeded Spartans fell to No. 3 seeded South Carolina State 6567 in the semifinals of the MEAC tournament. The Bulldogs went on to play the No. 1 seed, Hampton University. S.C. State had a 56-35 lead with thirteen minutes left in the game, before the Spartans made their major comeback. The Spartans outscored S.C. State 25-8 in the last twelve minutes of the game, taking the lead with
22.4 seconds left. Brian Kelley, junior guard for the Spartans gave NSU a 65-64 lead with 22.4 seconds remaining. That lead was short lived. The Spartans made seven of their first 14 shots, but finished the half with just 39.1 percent while S.C. State shot 55.2 percent. Senior Jeff Short caught a pass, dribbled through two defenders and put up a shot with three seconds to go. Unfortunately, that shot failed and the Bulldogs ended up with a free throw with 0.7 seconds left. “Jeff got a good look, and we just missed,” said Coach Jones. “He got a look that he makes nine out of 10 times. Just that 1 out of 10 times was today that he didn’t make it.”
The Spartans now have a 17-16 record for the season after tying for second in the MEAC at 12-4. This year made the third straight year of the Spartans advancing to the semifinals in the MEAC tournament. They went on to make their fifth straight postseason appearance in the Collegeinsider.com Tournament (CIT) starting game against Columbia in New York City. The CIT Tournament was created in 2009 by CollegeInsider.com. The tournament consists of five rounds, single elimination-style, and all rounds are determined by the results of the previous round.
Upcoming sports schedule
3/25/2016 3/25/2016 3/25/2016 3/25/2016 3/25/2016 3/25/2016 3/25/2016 3/25/2016 3/26/2016 3/26/2016 3/26/2016 3/26/2016 3/26/2016 3/26/2016 3/26/2016 3/29/2016 3/29/2016 3/30/2016 4/1/2016 4/1/2016
Women’s Bowling vs MEAC Championship Chesapeake, Va. 8 a.m. Softball at Delaware State (DH) Dover, Del. 1 p.m. Softball at Delaware State (DH) Dover, Del. 3 p.m. Men’s Tennis vs Coppin State Norfolk, Va. 3 p.m. Women’s Tennis vs Coppin State Norfolk, Va. 3 p.m. Baseball at Maryland Eastern Shore Princess Anne, Md. 3 p.m. Men’s Track at University of Richmond Fred Hardy Invitational Richmond, Va. All Day Women’s Track at University of Richmond Fred Hardy Invitational Richmond, Va. All Day Women’s Bowling vs MEAC Championship Chesapeake, Va. 8 a.m. Softball at Delaware State Dover, Del. Noon Baseball at Maryland Eastern Shore (DH) Princess Anne, Md. 12 p.m. Women’s Tennis at Richmond Richmond, Va. 1 p.m. Baseball at Maryland Eastern Shore (DH) Princess Anne, Md. 3 p.m. Women’s Track at University of Richmond Fred Hardy Invitational Richmond, Va. All Day Men’s Track at University of Richmond Fred Hardy Invitational Richmond, Va. All Day Men’s Tennis vs Hampton Norfolk, Va. 3 p.m. Baseball at Longwood Farmville, Va. 5 p.m. Women’s Tennis at Hampton Hampton, Va. 3 p.m. Women’s Tennis at Howard Washington, D.C. 1 p.m. Men’s Tennis at Howard Washington, D.C. 1 p.m.
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu