Basketball Recap: Herrin Takes Loss Despite Strong Performances from Jaxton Faulkenberry and Josh Ellis

Herrin lost against Sparta back in December of 2024 and unfortunately they wound up with the same result on Saturday. The Tigers took a 71-58 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Bulldogs. The loss was the Tigers' first of the season.

Jaxton Faulkenberry

Points

12/06/25 vs Sparta	15
12/03/25 vs DuQuoin	18
12/02/25 vs Chester	20
11/24/25 vs Frankfort	15

Herrin's loss came despite strong showings from Josh Ellis and Jaxton Faulkenberry. Ellis shot 73% from the field to rack up 20 points, while Faulkenberry went 7-for-13 on his way to 15 points and seven boards. The game was Faulkenberry's fourth in a row with at least 15 points. The team also got some help courtesy of J.J. Gwaltney, who posted seven points along with seven rebounds and three steals.

Dariontez Monroe had an outrageously good game for Sparta as he went 11-for-15 en route to 27 points in addition to six boards and four steals. That's the most points Monroe has posted since back in January. DJ Hayes was another key player, shooting 67% from the field to rack up 13 points and five assists.

Having lost for the first time this season, Herrin fell to 3-1. As for Sparta, the win keeps them at an undefeated 4-0.

Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Herrin will host Carterville at 6:00 p.m. on Friday. As for Sparta, they will welcome Breese Central at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday.