Box Score ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – A tough night shooting from just about any spot on the court contributed to a slow start offensively in the first half for Southern Arkansas on Thursday night in the team's Great American Conference opener at Henderson State. However, despite the 58-41 loss, the Muleriders defended well as they held the Reddies to just 58 points on 32% (19-of-60) shooting which included just five makes from deep in 23 attempts. The free throw line proved critical for both squads in the contest as HSU shot 79% (15-of-19) from the stripe, while the Muleriders connected on just 58% (15-of-26) of their attempts.
 
The Reddies led 28-17 at the intermission and outscored SAU by six points in the second half to claim the 17-point win. Henderson State forced 21 turnovers which led to a dozen points and the Reddies played in transition throughout the night as they recorded 19 fast break points to which SAU scored just three points. HSU also outscored the Muleriders inside 24-18 with seven blocked shots.
 
SAU (1-3, 0-1 GAC) was led by junior Devante Brooks, who despite being greeted by multiple defenders inside throughout the night, delivered his second-straight double-double with 10 points and 14 rebounds. True freshman Dodge Brown scored a career-high 11 points and classmate Jessie Davis Jr. added six points and six rebounds.
 
Southern Arkansas returns to action on Saturday and will welcome Harding into the W.T. Watson Center. Tip-off in the Muleriders' Great American Conference home opener is scheduled for 3 p.m. Live coverage links are available at www.MuleriderAthletics.com.