Coleton Benson scored a career-high 34 points as the New Orleans Privateers men’s basketball team secured a 94-85 victory over East Texas A&M on Monday night in Commerce, Texas. The win marked the team’s highest point total of the season.
Benson came close to breaking the single-game three-point record for the Privateers, making five three-pointers in the first half and finishing with seven out of ten from beyond the arc. He also contributed five assists during the game.
The Privateers established an early lead, starting with a 9-2 run and maintaining their advantage throughout the first half. By halftime, New Orleans led 52-35 after shooting 65.5 percent from the field and committing only four turnovers. Benson had already tallied 21 points by that point.
Although New Orleans built its largest lead at 24 points early in the second half, East Texas A&M responded with a series of successful three-point shots to narrow the gap to six points with just over eight minutes remaining. The Privateers then answered with an eight-point run to regain control.
East Texas A&M’s Gianni Hunt led his team with 23 points, including making thirteen of fourteen free throws. Ronnie Harrison added 18 points and eight rebounds, while Josh Taylor scored 15 points.
For New Orleans, Enzo Boudouma set a personal best with 15 points and grabbed nine rebounds. Churchill Abass recorded 15 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks. TJ Cope also contributed 15 points and made seven of eight free throws. Jakevion Buckley added nine points along with seven rebounds and five assists.
The Privateers will return home for their next game against UTRGV on Saturday at 5 p.m.
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