THE WEST ROLLS PAST THE EAST IN THE NABC ALL-STAR GAME


SPRINGFIELD, MA- University of North Alabama seniors Kenny Johnson and Thomas Fraise had strong individual performances in the National Association of Basketball Coaches Division II All-Star game but their East team came out on the short end of a 138-117 score. Johnson and Fraise, who helped lead UNA to an 18-10 record this season, were among 20 Division II players selected to participate in the NABC All-Star Game. Johnson hit four of his nine shots, one three-pointer and one free throw for 10 points. He added 4 assists two rebounds and a steal in 20 minutes of playing time. Fraise was seven-of-12 from the floor and made one three-pointer for 15 points. He added seven rebounds, two assists, one blocked shot and one steal.

Nolan Richardson III needed just 20 minutes to pour in 22 points and lead the West All Stars. Richardson was named Most Outstanding Player for the west squad after pouring in six 3-pointers while pulling in five rebounds, dishing out a pair of assists and collecting four steals off of the bench.

The West All Stars rolled out to a 70-52 halftime lead then cruised to the win.

Western Washington's Ira Graham scored 21 points, South Carolina-Aikens' Chris Commons dropped in 20 more while Saint Martin's Jake Linton (19 points), Central Oklahoma's Lance Harper (15 points) and Wisconsin-Parkside's Lavontay Fenderson (12 points) all scored in double figures for the West All Stars.

The East All Stars were paced by Elizabeth City State's Anthony Hilliard who finished with 24 points and 10 rebounds. Hilliard was named the East's Most Outstanding Player after notching the double-double.