[Bernini]

Rock Island sends message to rivals / QCTimes.com

And on the other end of the floor, Randle and Pullman feasted.

With University of Iowa assistant LaVall Jordan looking on, Randle scored all 23 of his points in the first three quarters, but he provided more than offense to the Rocks’ attack. The 6-foot-2 sophomore also grabbed seven rebounds, had six assists and blocked a pair of shots.

“Randle did a lot of things for us,” Rock Island coach Thom Sigel said. “He’s making strides as a player. He’s a sophomore who is learning what it’s takes to compete at this level.”

Smithers appreciated that, as well as the help that Randle received.

“Both he and their entire team are only getter better,’’ Smithers said. “They really look to be hitting their stride right now, unfortunately for the rest of us.”