Jackson Free Press

The Jackson area schools that aren't major contenders in Mississippi college basketball are known as the "small" schools. But they're only small in enrollment, not in talent, drive or determination.

Mississippi College, Belhaven University, and Millsaps College all want to be conference contenders and play for championships. These schools are looking to build on previous seasons and take the next step with their programs.

One of the most successful local schools is Mississippi College. The Choctaws are the only local team to have qualified for the American Southwest Conference Tournament.

Last season MC finished 22-10 for their 22nd consecutive winning season. Don Lofton returns for his eighth season; he is 144-50 overall during his tenure at Mississippi College.

The Choctaws return three starters this season but have to replace their top scorer Ken Black. Leading the way this season could be All-ASC player Greg Pulliam who averaged 11 points per game and is a three-point threat.

Currently, the Choctaws are 1-6 overall and 1-6 in conference play.

Belhaven University had a successful 2009-10 season but was barely over .500 last season. The Blazers finished 6-6 in the Southern States Athletic Conference.

Tom Kelsey enters his seventh season and is 105-83 overall at Belhaven. The Blazers must replace Rob Wallace, who averaged 19.6 points per game last season.

Picking up the load in scoring falls to Brittion Smith, who averaged 9.2 points per game. Smith played in every game last season and made 48 percent of his shots.

Currently, Belhaven is 4-9 overall and 1-3 in conference play.

Millsaps College struggled last season, finishing 10-15 overall and 4-12 in the Southern Collegiate Athletic Association. The Majors struggled mightily on the road, going 1-10.

Tim Wise returns for his seventh season and has compiled an 83-77 overall record. Wise will look to turn the program around with 10 freshman players.

The Majors must replace L.V. Sumler who filled up the stat sheet for the Majors last season. Sumler led the team in rebounds, steals and minutes played. He was also third in points and second in assists.

Millsaps returns leading scoring Nick Cortese, who averaged 12.1 points per game. Second-leading scorer Taylor Meades returns as well. Meades averaged 11 points per contest last season.

Currently, the Majors are 5-3 overall and 1-1 in conference play.

Follow Bryan Flynn at http://www.jfpsports.com, Facebook and @jfpsports.