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■■ NEWS
‘Make it happen’: Mississippi Legislature pushes to ban DEI as political pressure mounts
By Michael Goldberg Mississippi Today
With President Donald Trump elevating bans of diversity, equity and inclusion programs to the top of national Republicans’ education agenda, Mississippi lawmakers are working to shutter DEI across the state’s higher education system.
Lawmakers in Mississippi’s Republican-dominated Legislature have for months considered the issue and met with university officials. Now, legislators will decide how far they will go in rooting out DEI in the state’s colleges and universities. They are determining what academic concepts count as “divisive” and what legal recourse to provide students and faculty who feel wronged by DEI-related initiatives.
DEI programs have come under fire mostly from conservatives, who say the programs divide people into categories of victims and oppressors, exacerbate antisemitism and infuse left-wing ideology into every facet of campus life. DEI also has progressive critics, who say the programs can be used to feign support for reducing inequality without actually doing so. Proponents say the programs are necessary to ensure that institutions meet the needs of increasingly diverse student populations.
Trump promised in his 2024 campaign to eliminate DEI in the federal government. One of the first executive orders he has signed did that. Some Mississippi lawmakers introduced bills in the 2024 session to restrict DEI, but the proposals never made it out of committee. With the national headwinds at their backs and several other DEI bans in Republican-led states to use as models, Mississippi lawmakers are poised in 2025 to move forward with legislation targeting the programs.
In the House, Republican Reps. Donnie Scoggin, Joey Hood and Becky Currie have introduced bills to clamp down on DEI. Scoggin, Chair of the House Universities and Colleges Committee,
said negotiations around the proposals are ongoing, but Hood’s bill is the leading contender to move forward.
Hood’s bill would eliminate diversity training programs that “increase awareness or understanding of issues related to race, sex or other federally protected classes.” It would also seek to regulate academic instruction, barring universities from offering courses that promote “divisive concepts,” including “transgender ideology, gender-neutral pronouns, heteronormativity, gender theory, sexual privilege or any related formulation of these concepts.”
Scoggin said the Legislature should settle on a finished product that is “semi-vague” in its language to protect universities from a flurry of legal challenges and funding cuts by the state.
“There may be a professor that gets
out here in left field somewhere. Well, the administration may not know it until they’re notified,” Scoggin said. “It’s about trying to be vague enough that we’re not hurting the college, yet strong enough that we’re getting the message across.”
After falling short with little discussion at the Capitol in 2024, the push to write DEI restrictions into state law picked up steam after a growing chorus of lawmakers said voluntary moves by universities to limit DEI programs were insufficient, Scoggin said.
The Senate Universities and Colleges Committee could take up DEI legislation as soon as its Thursday committee meeting.
(This story was originally published by Mississippi Today and distributed through a partnership with The Associated Press.)
President Calvin Anderson Interim Editor Lee Eric Smith
Cordova High’s Adrian Maclin Wins 2025 Grammy Music Educator Award
CBS News shines light on choir director impacting lives in and out of school
By TSD Newsroom
Adrian L. Maclin, the acclaimed choir director at Cordova High School, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Music Educator Award, an honor presented by the Recording Academy and the Grammy Museum.
The announcement, first reported by CBS News, recognizes Maclin’s unwavering dedication to music education and the transformative impact he has had on his students.
Maclin, who has led the Cordova High School choral program for 12 years, was selected from a competitive field of educators across the country. He will be honored at the Special Merit Awards Ceremony Saturday, February 1, ahead of the 67th Annual Grammy Awards.
A Choir Room That Feels Like Home
Inside Cordova High School, room F-163 is more than just a classroom—it’s a sanctuary for students, a place where music and mentorship go hand in hand.
“They know that F-163 is home,” Maclin told CBS News, reinforcing his belief that a choir should function as a family, not just an ensemble.
Maclin’s students, past and present, describe him as more than a teacher—he’s a father figure. One student recalled how Maclin personally picked him up at 5:30 a.m. every morning to ensure he could make it to school. Another student, once reluctant to be in choir, now aspires to become a music educator because of Maclin’s influence.
“The joy of seeing them be successful, knowing that the little part that I did made a change in their life—that’s what keeps me going,” Maclin said.
Adrian L. Maclin
“The joy of seeing them be successful, knowing that the little part that I did made a change in their life—that’s what keeps me going.”
— Adrian L. Maclin
Commitment to Excellence
—On and Off the Stage
Maclin’s approach to teaching extends beyond music. He insists on academic excellence, famously telling his students, “I’m not going to take around a bunch of singing dummies.” His choir includes some of Cordova’s highest-achieving students, including the school’s valedictorian.
Under Maclin’s leadership, the choir has performed on national stages, including Carnegie Hall and the Tennessee Music Educators Association conference. Beyond Cordova, he plays a vital role in the broader Memphis music scene as assistant artistic director for Memphis Choral Arts and conductor for the Memphis Men’s Chorale. He also serves as Minister of Music at Mount Moriah-East Baptist Church.
Recognition and a Lasting Legacy
The Music Educator Award includes a $10,000 honorarium for Maclin and a matching grant for Cordova High School’s music program. Nine other finalists received $1,000 honorariums, but Maclin stood out as the top honoree.
In a statement, Memphis-Shelby County Schools celebrated Maclin’s achievement saying, “His passion for music and education has changed lives, and we are incredibly proud to see one of our own recognized on such a prestigious platform.”
As the Grammy Awards approach, Maclin’s students and colleagues are already celebrating a well-earned victory—not just for him but for the entire Cordova High community.
■■ ENTERTAINMENT
Sound the alarm: FUBU announces inaugural hip-hop awards show in Memphis
By Lee Eric Smith Interim Editor
J. Alexander Martin, co-founder of the legendary hip-hop fashion brand FUBU, stood thoughtfully behind the mic at Memphis City Hall, contemplating the question from media: Why did FUBU choose Memphis to host its new For Us By Us Awards Show?
“You know, sometimes, you come to a place. . . and you can just feel it, y’know?” Martin said at a Wednesday afternoon press conference. “It’s not something you can really put into words . . .” At which point, a fire alarm went off, interrupting the news conference.
So sound the alarm, Memphis: The For Us By Us Awards and Festival are coming to the Cannon Center August 14–17, bringing a burst of hip-hop music, fashion, film and more over the four-day weekend.
Organizers estimate the weekend could generate $30 million to $50 million in economic impact for the city, drawing thousands of visitors and shining a national spotlight on Memphis’ rich cultural contributions.
Martin, whose FUBU brand has sold more than $6 billion in products since its founding in 1992, said the event will honor trailblazers in music, film, fashion and social justice.
“This is more than a celebration,” Martin said. “It’s about recognizing the people who built the business of hiphop—the influencers, designers and creators who laid the foundation for the culture we live in today.”
“This is more than a celebration. It’s about recognizing the people who built the business of hip-hop—the influencers, designers and creators who laid the foundation for the culture we live in today.”
— J. Alexander Martin
Mayor Paul Young welcomed FUBU to Memphis with enthusiasm.
“When I first met the FUBU team a couple of weeks ago, we had a great discussion, and the energy just clicked,” Young said. “As America’s largest majority-Black city… the FUBU and Memphis alignment just felt right from the start. We’re excited about their announcement and look forward to welcoming their creative energy into our city for many years to come.”
The festival will include live performances, panels and networking opportunities for creatives and entrepreneurs. FUBU also aims to make the event an annual tradition, further embedding itself in the cultural fabric of Memphis.
“Memphis is an incredible city with incredible people and an incredible environment,” Martin said. “Its rich cultural history aligns perfectly with FUBU’s mission and mantra of ‘For Us, By Us.’ When I came here, I could just feel it—the energy, the connection and the potential for something special.”
J. Alexander Martin, co-founder of FUBU, was joined by city officials to announce the For Us By Us Awards and Festival, coming to Memphis in August. (Photo: Lee Eric Smith/Tri-State Defender)
Hattiloo Theatre brings mythology to life with ‘Black Odyssey’
By Taylor Baston Special to the Tri-State Defender
Hattiloo Theatre kicked off 2025 with “Black Odyssey,” a powerful reimagining of Homer’s The Odyssey, set in modern-day Harlem. Now running through February 16, this production combines African American history, mythology and vibrant storytelling to deliver an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Founded in 2006 by Ekundayo Bandele, Hattiloo Theatre has become a cornerstone of Memphis’ performing arts scene, staging plays and musicals that amplify African American stories and voices.
This season’s “Black Odyssey” continues Hattiloo’s tradition of showcasing powerful narratives that reflect and celebrate the Black experience. Written by Obie-winning playwright Marcus Gardley, the play brings new depth to the story of Ulysses Lincoln, a Black American soldier navigating a journey home from war. After seeing the production in New York, Bandele knew almost instantly that he wanted to bring the production to life at Hattiloo Theatre.
“When I saw it, it had to be within the first 15 minutes that I was like ‘Hey I’m going to do this show,’” said Bandele, who is co-directing the play with Maya Robinson.
The mix of dance, music and original characters gave Bandele an instant love for the play. He also appreciated the richness of Black characters and Black stories. “Black Odyssey” captures the essence of Black culture and Black life.
“I truly loved that it is a very Black play, and it doesn’t shun or try to sugar coat that it is a Black play,” said Bandele.
Rich with cultural symbolism and centered around a Black family, the play gives the audience a “window into the Black experience.” The characters grapple with themes like profiling, family and identity, showcasing the strength and complexity of the Black experience through struggles and triumphs.
Adding to the excitement is the return of “P-Valley” star Bertram Williams Jr., who plays Ulysses Lincoln.
“This play is a unique opportunity because it is a bit of a homecoming for me. I got my start in acting at
Hattiloo,” Williams said. “After being away for about seven years acting in film and TV roles, Ekundayo invited me back to our home base to participate in this production.”
With its rich storytelling and innovative production, “Black Odyssey” promises to leave a lasting impression. It invites audiences to explore the connections between the past and present while celebrating the resilience and beauty of African American culture. Although there are many lessons that can be learned from “Black Odyssey,” Bandele hopes the audience leave with this piece of wisdom: “The journey is difficult, but you need to stay true to it,” said Bandele. “That’s a big part of this play.”
Black Odyssey will run from January 24 to February 16, 2025, at Hattiloo Theatre, 37 South Cooper St., Memphis, TN 38104. Tickets are on sale now.
Bertram Williams Jr. rehearses a key scene in “Black Odyssey,” now in production at the Hatilloo Theatre through Feb. 16. (Courtesy Photo)
Black Odyssey was brought to Memphis by Hatilloo Founder Ekundayo Bandele, who saw a production of it in New York. “When I saw it, it had to be within the first 15 minutes that I was like ‘Hey I’m going to do this show,’” said Bandele, who is co-directing the play with Maya Robinson. (Courtesy Photo)
■■ EDUCATION
Richmond: ‘I’m
asking the
community to
trust that we can get this right’
A Q&A with Memphis-Shelby County Schools new interim superintendent
By Lee Eric Smith Interim Editor
Roderick Richmond, EdD, newly appointed Interim superintendent of Memphis-Shelby County Schools, stepped in front of cameras and microphones for the first time since being thrust into the role amid the dramatic ouster of Dr. Marie Feagins.
Speaking alongside MSCS board members at a press conference, Richmond sought to project stability and confidence as he outlined his immediate priorities for the district.
“My focus and vision have not changed—they have always been about the students, this district and this community,” he said in his opening remarks, pledging to focus on getting resources and materials to schools, and reaching out to city, county and community leaders. Then he mentioned what may well be the defining word of his tenure.
“Our success depends on trust—trust in me, trust in the board, trust in our leadership teams, our principals and our teachers,” he continued. “We must work together to move this district and our community forward.”
Feagins may be gone, but her fans are not, and trust will be a challenge to regain. Even at his introductory press conference, Richmond and school board members had to speak above the chants of protesters outside the 901 Cafe, where it was being held.
Some protesters carried signs that read “CONTRACTS AND KICKBACKS!”, while others chanted slogans accusing the board of ignoring the community’s wishes. Among them was Rev. Willie Womack of SCLC Mem-
phis, who voiced frustration over the handling of Feagins’ removal and called for greater transparency in district leadership.
And the ripple effect continues. Just this week, even as Gov. Bill Lee seeks to push through a controversial school voucher program, Tennessee lawmakers are also expected to debate legislation enabling the takeover of Memphis-Shelby County Schools. In separate legislation, State. Rep. G.A. Hardaway’s effort to enable recall elections on ALL county elected positions—including school boards— certainly will resonate with Feagins’ followers.
Richmond, who most recently served as the district’s transformation officer, inherits a school system still reeling from the contentious 6-3 vote that removed Feagins after just nine months on the job.
Minutes after the vote, Richmond and Deputy Superintendent Angela Whitelaw, PhD, were both nominated for the interim role. Whitelaw withdrew her name from consideration; Richmond did not and was unanimously appointed to the role.
“As the board said, I believe I am the right person at the right time to do this most important work for our community,” he said.
The board’s decision was met with fierce public opposition. For some, their first memory of Richmond was a heated moment where he barked, “Don’t play with me!” at an angry protester.
Moments later, Feagins essentially promised to sue the school board saying, “They chose litigation over leadership, so I’ll see them in court.”
“I believe I am the right person at the right time to do this most important work for our community.” — Newly appointed interim Superintendent Dr. Roderick Richmond, introduced after the contentious termination of Dr. Marie N. Feagins. (Photos: Lee Eric Smith/Tri-State Defender)
There will be more to learn about why the board stood fast in the face of such fervent support. For now, the TSD wanted to share Richmond’s thoughts on how to heal the divide with the community, what his priorities are and even that testy moment at the meeting. Here are his remarks from the press conference and afterwards, lightly edited for length and clarity: Tri-State Defender: I mean, you heard the chants. People are still very,
very emotional about all of this. They’re literally outside the press conference chanting. And, for good or ill, you’re the face of all of this. How are you approaching it?
Richmond: To rebuild trust, we must operate with transparency and integrity. I often tell administrators and those I mentor that I can coach them through almost anything—except integrity. Integrity must be a given. We must ensure that our actions align with our
■■ EDUCATION
“CONTRACTS AND KICKBACKS!” were among the chants of demonstrators at the Memphis Shelby County Schools Main Office Thursday afternoon.
words in everything we do, every single day.
I also think it’s important for me to get out into the community. People need to know who I am. People need to know that I’m a person of integrity, someone they can trust. We’re trying to operate with full transparency and in the best interest of our children.
Part of that is building relationships with key influencers, but also with this job, it requires you to work with a group of people. So there may be key influencers that I know who may know someone who’s hesitant to trust us. Hopefully, those individuals can be a bridge to bring others in, so we can all
Demonstrations continue around the controversial firing of
Watch video of MSCS board introducing Dr. Richmond at https://tri-statedefender. com/348786-2/01/24/.
agree and get on board with improving our schools and communities.
Even though we may see things differently based on our vantage points, I want to ensure that people understand the “why” behind decisions being made.
TSD: Board members have suggested that the public may not have seen the full picture of Feagins’ leadership struggles. Can you elaborate?
Richmond: There’s a book I love called “Leadership on the Line.” It says a lot, but one thing is that depending on where you stand, your perspective
See Page 8
“Time can prove that we did what we needed to do. Facts,” MSCS Board Chair Joyce
told the TSD after the press conference. “The protesting . . . it’s nothing personal against us. Us standing up, saying what has to take place, it’s nothing personal against the community. It’s about these
Rev. Willie Womack of SCLC Memphis was among the leaders of a small protest during Richmond’s introductory press conference.
Dorse Coleman
children.
Dr. Marie Feagins.
From Page 7
■■ EDUCATION
may appear to be different—whether you’re on the dance floor or the balcony. We may see things differently.
We should be careful about condemning people who may not know what we know because there was a time we didn’t know what we know now. So I don’t want to ever condemn people. I want to continue to educate people and to let them know exactly what’s going on, so they’ll have a better perspective around some of the decisions and the “whys” behind them.
TSD: Before all of this happened, what was the biggest issue facing the district? What’s the biggest “fire” that you must turn your attention to now?
Richmond: Well, I’m not gonna call it a fire, but I would just say it’s important for us to be able to recruit and retain effective talent. I want to make sure that in each one of our schools: We have a highly effective teacher in our classrooms to deliver instruction to our students; we have the most effective leaders in our school; and we’re recruiting and re -
Newly elected school board member Tamarques Porter Jr. issued a “a call to action for the citizens of Memphis—I am excited that everybody’s excited about education, but let’s move the district forward and come up with positive solutions that we can all see and that we can all help our children with, so we can move this district forward.”
(Photo: Lee Eric Smith/Tri-State Defender)
taining highly effective central office staff. That’s indicative to any school district.
Not just to recruit them, but for us
to be able to retain those people. When you invest in individuals and you’re not able to retain them, you’re not getting a return on what you poured into them.
TSD: You weren’t a finalist in the original superintendent search. How did you feel about being appointed interim, and do you want the permanent role?
Richmond: I wasn’t involved in the board’s decision to remove my predecessor, but I accepted this role because of my commitment to this district and our children. This is a heavy task, and I knew that stepping into it would come with challenges. But I was willing to do it because I believe in the work that needs to be done.
Do I want the permanent job? Yes. I would not be truthful if I said I didn’t want this job permanently. However, I also respect the board’s process. They will ultimately decide how to proceed, and as I’ve always done, I will follow their policies, processes and procedures.
Again, I ask the community to trust me, to trust our board members, to trust our leadership team, to trust our principals, to trust our teachers. I’m asking them to trust that we can get this right and that we will do it right to move our school district and community forward.
■■ COMMUNITY
Memphis DJ Chris Cross joins forces with 1916 Enterprises in groundbreaking deal
By Brianna Smith-Herman Special to The Tri-State Defender
Memphis’ very own DJ Chris Cross has officially inked a joint venture distribution partnership with 1916 Enterprises, marking a major milestone in his career and a significant collaboration for the music industry. This partnership merges DJ Chris Cross’ undeniable talent and visionary approach with 1916 Enterprises’ innovative music distribution strategies. Known for his electrifying energy and cutting-edge sound, DJ Chris Cross has quickly risen through the ranks to become one of the hottest DJs in the South. A native of Memphis, Tennessee, he launched his disc jockey career in the summer of 2014, gaining traction through weekly “sets” at Memphis house parties. His local popularity soon blossomed into hosting his own
Shelby County
By James Coleman Special to The Tri-State Defender
events, solidifying his reputation as a force in the city’s music culture.
Now, as the official DJ for rising stars YTB Fatt (@ytbfatt), Lil Double 0 (@ lildouble00_), and A.R. The Mermaid (@a.r.themermaid), DJ Chris Cross has transformed his passion into a thriving career. His work ethic and fearless approach to taking risks have paved the way for this exciting new partnership, which includes distributing a joint venture compilation project.
“To my amazing hometown in Memphis, TN, and the surrounding Tri-State Area: Your unwavering support has been the bedrock of my journey,” DJ Chris Cross said. “For over 10 years, you’ve shown up, believed in me, and helped me build the relationships that have led to this very moment. This partnership represents more than just music; it’s a testament to the power of connection, hard work and resilience.
I’m excited for what’s ahead and can’t wait to share this next chapter with Memphis, my fans and everyone who has been a part of this journey.” 1916 Enterprises, based in Glendale, California, is a music and entertainment company that manages, publishes and distributes music. It also creates original music for TV and film, and invests in entertainment companies. With groundbreaking projects and exciting releases on the horizon, the future of music is brighter than ever, and it’s got Memphis written all over it.
commissioners prepare for General Sessions Court vacancy
Shelby County commissioners unanimously approved a resolution receiving and filing a notice of vacancy in the General Sessions Court at the tail end of the Monday, Jan. 27, meeting, preparing for the pending retirement of Judge Bill Anderson. Anderson was appointed to the court in 2010.
Before the seat is vacant, applications must be submitted for an eventual
replacement. The resolution sets the deadline for applicants as Wednesday, Feb. 12. Commission members will interview candidates a week later, Wednesday, Feb. 19. An interim judge will be appointed Monday, Feb. 24.
The resolution authorizes County Commission Chairman Michael Whaley to publish a notice of appointment. It also requests the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office to conduct background checks on all candidates.
The effective date is March 1.
Whaley is the sponsor of the reso-
lution. It passed 12–0 after receiving a favorable recommendation in the General Government Committee Wednesday, Jan. 22.
As his 14-year tenure progressed, Anderson became a lightning rod for criticism among advocates for stronger law enforcement. Most of the fault-finding surrounded the Division 7 judge’s bail decisions, particularly when violent crimes were alleged. Some critics even went as far as accusing Anderson of operating a “revolving door,” where violent offenders are released hours after
committing a heinous offense.
Rancor reached a high point following the pandemic, crime rates soared as lockouts ended and people at-large readjusted to society. However, the number is now trending downward. According to Memphis Crime Commission statistics, the overall crime rate in Memphis dropped 10.6% in 2024 from the previous year.
Many large cities across the nation also have experienced a significant drop in crime over the same time period.
From Memphis to the world DJ Chris Cross signs a game-changing joint venture with 1916 Enterprises. This isn’t just about music—it’s about connection, resilience and the power of hard work. Stay tuned for groundbreaking projects and the next chapter in Memphis music history. (Courtesy: DJ Chris Cross)
■■ SPORTS Tigers adjust starting five, scorch UAB 100-77
By Terry Davis Special to The Tri-State Defender
A lineup change paid immediate dividends as the Memphis Tigers rolled past Alabama-Birmingham 100-77 at the FedEx Forum on Sunday, Jan. 25.
Dain Dainja’s insertion into the starting five was an attempt by Tiger’s coach Penny Hardaway to cut turnovers after a miscue-filled game against Wichita State on Thursday, Jan. 23.
The inclusion of the multi-skilled big man appeared to work. The Tigers cut their turnovers to 12. Against Wichita State, they committed 20 turnovers overall. Previous starting center Moussa Cisse entered play from the bench to provided rebounding, defense and energy.
“We have been thinking about it for a month. What I thought would happen, happened. He went out there and dominated. Moussa had nine points and eight rebounds in only 15 minutes,” confided a hoarse-voiced Hardaway. “With a 23-point win, you would think I wouldn’t sound like this.”
Dainja responded positively too. He finished the game with a season-high 21 points on an efficient 8-10 from the field. The burly 6’9” forward also grabbed eight rebounds. The bulk of the output came in the first half. Dainja scored 16 of his points in the period.
More importantly, the Tigers cut their turnovers to three in the frame. At the midway point against Wichita State, they had already committed 14.
Entering the tunnel with a 52-39 advantage, Memphis continued to press at the start of the second half. The Tigers built their lead to 64-45, on a Nicholas Jourdain three-point shot with 16:13 on the clock. The senior forward stepped
up his scoring after Dainja ran into foul trouble early in the second half.
Jourdain scored seven of his 11 overall points in the final nine minutes to provide a consistent scoring outlet late in the game. Meanwhile, Dainja fouled out with 6:21 after a review that assessed he committed a fifth foul. Memphis led 82-63 at that point.
The margin would continue to grow. Memphis outscored the Blazers 48-38 in the second period. The Tigers shot a blistering 71% in the second half, to finish with a 62.3% overall after hitting 32-61 shots. Alabama-Birmingham hit a moribund 38.5% for the game on 2565 shooting.
PJ Haggerty led all scorers with 23 points on 9-16 shooting, including 2-2 from beyond the arc. He also had a career high nine assists to go along with six rebounds. The sophomore currently ranks second in the nation with 22.1 points per game.
“I was just trying to make the game easier. I am a tough shot maker. I was trying to get my teammates the ball. They got hot early and I was able to find my grove later,” said Haggerty. Memphis had 24 assists on the night. The Blazers connected with teammates 13 times.
UAB was led by Efram Johnson, who scored 21 points. The junior guard also hit 5-9 from deep. Senior forward Yaxel Lendeborg added 18 points and 10 rebounds. Forward Bradley Ezewiro came off the bench to chip in 19 points and seven rebounds.
Alabama-Birmingham falls to 12-8, 5-2 AAC, Memphis improves to 16-4, 6-1. The Tigers currently hold a first place tie with conference foe North Texas, whom they defeated 68-64 on Jan. 5.
Memphis will hit the road for a pair of games. The first leg of the trip will be to New Orleans to face the Tulane Green Wave on Thursday, Jan. 30. Tipoff is at 7 p.m. The next stop will be Houston to defend against the host Rice Owls on Sunday, Feb. 2.
Forward Dain Dainja goes up for an uncontested dunk during the Tigers’ 100-77 win over Alabama-Birmingham on Sunday, Jan. 6. The senior responded with 21 points and eight rebounds after being inserted into the starting lineup. (Photos: Warren Roseborough/The Tri-State Defender)
Sophomore guard PJ Haggerty maneuvers around UAB’s Yaxel Lendeborg, leading all scorers with 23 points and achieving a career-high nine assists.
