EIU Beats Rockford University for Coach Marty Simmons' First Win

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Published on November 19 2021 6:57 am
Last Updated on November 19 2021 6:57 am
Written by Millie Lange

CHARLESTON -- Behind the strong play of Sammy Friday IV in the opening minutes, Eastern Illinois University's offense was firing on all cylinders Thursday night as the Panthers beat Rockford University, 96-64 for the first EIU win for first-year head coach Marty Simmons.

Friday was 9 of 11 from the floor with seven rebounds as he finished with 21 points, one of six Panthers in double figures in the game. Friday collected 13 of his game-high total in the opening half as EIU shot 69 percent from the floor.

The Panthers continued to shoot the ball well throughout the duration of the game, finishing at 63 percent for the night.

Henry Abraham had 12 of his 15 points in the opening half as he knocked down three of four from three-point range in the game. EIU was six of 15 as a team from beyond the arc.

Coach Simmons has signed the Panthers first player for the 2022-2023 season as Sincere Malone signed a national letter of intent during the NCAA early signing period.

Malone is a 6’7”, 210 pound Chicago native that began his prep career at Simeon Career Academy. He completed his senior high school season playing at Lincoln Park HS where he led the team in all major statistical categories including points, rebounds, assists, steals and blocks.

Malone is currently attending We Are United Prep in Springfield, Ill., where he is completing a post-grad year playing under Coach Rob Yanders.  He has opened the season averaging 18 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists per game.

"Sincere Malone is going to make an immediate impact on our program,” said Simmons.   “His size and length, along with his skill set, make him an extremely versatile player. He can play and defend multiple positions, and create tough matchups for our opponents. Most importantly, he's a tireless worker and a winner. We are extremely excited to welcome Sincere to the Panther family!" 

EIU continues the early portion of its season as the Panthers host Rockford University on Thursday night (Nov. 18) before traveling to Richmond, Kentucky next week for two games in the EKUHoops Invitational presented by Geneva Financial.