HAMMOND, La. – The Southeastern Louisiana University men’s basketball team faced a narrow 79-76 loss to New Orleans in a tight Southland Conference match at home. This defeat extends their losing streak to three games.
SLU (5-12, 2-6 SLC) fought hard in a game marked by numerous lead changes and ties. However, they struggled to finish strong. New Orleans capitalized with 14 points from turnovers, a crucial factor in their victory.
Fifth-year senior Isaiah Gaines shone for SLU, achieving a double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds. Jalen Forrest added 12 points, mainly from the free-throw line. Meanwhile, Kyle Edison contributed nine points, and Jeremy Elyzee offered eight points along with solid defensive play.
The game started with both teams exchanging baskets. SLU’s 9-0 run early on gave them a temporary lead. However, New Orleans responded, eventually taking a 20-16 lead midway through the first half. Coleton Benson of New Orleans dominated, finishing with 30 points, including key free throws that helped secure their win. Notably, he shot an impressive 10-of-11 from the foul line.
By halftime, SLU trailed 38-34. They came back energized in the second half, increasing their defensive pressure and forcing New Orleans into 10 turnovers. SLU even managed to reclaim the lead at 42-41. Edison and Jaiden Lawrence played crucial defensive roles, combining for five steals.
With six minutes left, Southeastern reached their highest lead at 61-58, but the back-and-forth continued. New Orleans’s effective free-throw shooting—21-of-25—proved critical. In a nail-biting finish, Benson’s last-second three-pointer clinched the victory for the Privateers.
Ultimately, free-throw shooting made the difference. SLU converted on 66.7% of their free throws, while New Orleans capitalized on their opportunities, taking 39 shots at the line. SLU’s overall field goal percentage was 36.1%, while the Privateers shot 44.7% from the field.
Looking ahead, SLU will hit the road for two games against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi and UTRGV on January 17 and 19, respectively.
For fans wishing to support the basketball program, joining the Hardwood Club or S Club is a great way to get involved. More details can be found by contacting the Lion Athletics Association.
Stay updated on Southeastern basketball through their social media channels and visit their official site for ticket information. Mobile ticketing has been implemented for fan convenience, allowing tickets to be downloaded directly to smartphones.
