Story by Sam Swimford, Athletic Operations Coordinator at SIC.
Harrisburg High School product Jesse Lawler has signed a letter of intent to return home and play basketball at Southeastern Illinois College beginning this fall. Lawler, a 2021 graduate, was a 3-year starter for Coach Randy Smithpeters and averaged 8.3 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists per game in the shortened 2020-2021 season.
After high school, Lawler chose Rock Valley College over offers from Waubonsee Community College and Culver-Stockton College and was a member of the Rock Valley team that finished 3rd at the NJCAA national tournament. The 6’3” guard will now bring his length and play making ability to the Falcons roster. He said that he felt this was the best opportunity to get back on the court while also being close to home.
“We are excited to get Jesse back to the area and back on the court,” SIC Coach Sam Swinford said. “Having a year in a college program under his belt, he will bring maturity and experience to our practices and locker room. On the court, Jesse has taken big strides in the last year and will fit in nicely with our returners. Having an opportunity to be close to home and play in front of family and friends is always special and we are thankful that Jesse saw the value in that. I am excited to see him excel on our campus.”
