The Nicholls Colonels defeated the New Orleans Privateers 90-77 on Saturday at Lakefront Arena. The game was closely contested in the first half, with both teams displaying strong offensive performances. The Privateers shot 58 percent from the field, while Nicholls made 47 percent of their shots. Both teams combined for 16 three-pointers in the opening period.
There were six lead changes during the first half, and neither team led by more than seven points. With less than two minutes remaining before halftime, Nicholls held a 45-38 advantage, but New Orleans responded with five quick points from Coleton Benson and Irish Coquia. Zee Hamoda closed out the half for Nicholls with a buzzer-beating jumper.
Nicholls took control early in the second half, making eight consecutive field goals between the 16:53 and 11:50 marks. This run extended their lead to 74-55. The Colonels finished the second half shooting 50 percent and made a total of 17 three-pointers during the game. They also recorded 19 assists compared to just seven turnovers.
Jaylen Searles led Nicholls with 24 points, including 17 in the second half. Hamoda contributed 20 points, while Trae English added seven points and seven assists.
For New Orleans, Benson scored a team-high 26 points—22 of which came in the first half. TJ Cope and MJ Thomas each had 12 points, and Coquia finished with nine points. The Privateers out-rebounded Nicholls by a margin of 37-23.
The Privateers’ next game is scheduled for Monday night against Southeastern in Hammond at 6 p.m.
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