Nicholls holds off SLU in second half, 81-71

THIBODAUX, La. – Nicholls State opened the game on a 22-5 run and never trailed as they defeated the Southeastern Louisiana men’s basketball team, 81-71, Saturday afternoon at Stopher Gymnasium.

The Lions (6-20, 3-12 Southland) were led by junior Pape Diop scoring a game-high 23 points on 13-for-16 from the free throw line including eight rebounds. Freshman Nick Caldwell tied a career-high scoring 16 points while senior Von Julien added 11 points and seven assists.

The Colonels (17-9, 11-4 Southland) had four players score in double figures paced by forward Warith Alatishe with 16 points. Kevin Johnson added 15 points and five assists while Dexter McClanahan and Andre Jones had 13 and 11.

SLU started the game 1-for-10 and appeared headed for a blowout loss. But the Lions had other ideas as they rallied to cut a 17-point hole down to five, 49-44 with 13:31 to go. The Colonels responded with a 12-2 run to retake a 15-point lead, 61-46, with 9:08 remaining to help them seal the win.

Nicholls shot 30-for-60 from the field including 8-for-13 from the three-point line. Southeastern finished 22-for-57 (38 percent) from the field and was just 5-for-20 from the three-point line.

Despite, the loss SLU won the rebounding battle, 36-34, against the much bigger size of Nicholls.

The Colonels improved to 11-1 at home this season with their only loss being a 73-72 setback to Northwestern State Jan. 15.

Southeastern will have a week off before taking on Abilene Christian Saturday, Feb. 22 at the University Center at 4 p.m.

HARDWOOD CLUB/S CLUB
Fans interested in becoming active supporters of the basketball program are encouraged to join the Hardwood Club. Lion alums are encouraged to join the exclusive S Club, which is restricted to Southeastern athletic letterwinners. All membership fees and donations to Hardwood Club are available for the exclusive use of the Southeastern basketball program. Membership information is available by contacting the Lion Athletics Association at laa@southeastern.edu or (985) 549-5091 or visiting www.LionUp.com.

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