By By Will Bardwell/staff writer
October 11, 2003
Southern Miss basketball has been a work in progress that may finally be turning the corner, according to Golden Eagles head coach James Green.
Green was the featured speaker on Friday at the Eagle Club meeting at the Crescent City Grill in Meridian.
Green said he was happy, though, about his team's graduation rate. This year, USM's basketball team had a 100 percent graduation rate.
This year's Golden Eagles squad will feature 10 scholarship players, including three seniors and three juniors. Green said that returning experience will help improve the team's performance.
Taking questions from supporters, Green said he would continue to bring experience with junior college transfers when necessary.
Two junior college players recently caused problems for the Southern Miss program. Brannon Hayes and Rudolph Mauricette, who both signed with USM from Lee Junior College over the offseason, left school after it was discovered their transcripts had been altered. Assistant coach Luster Goodwin was forced to resign in the wake of the discovery.
Green said he is still looking at candidates to replace Goodwin, and may hire an interim coach who would assist through the 2003-04 season.