Nicholls State overcomes New Orleans in close battle at SLC Championsip

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA (March 11, 2024) In a thrilling showdown at the Southland Conference Tournament, the Nicholls State University women's basketball team showcased their prowess with a solid 73-66 triumph over New Orleans. The game was a rollercoaster ride, with the Colonels trailing at halftime but bouncing back with a vengeance in the second half.

Led by senior guard Kyla Hamilton (Sam Houston HS, Moss Bluff, LA), the Colonels turned up the heat when it mattered most. Hamilton's clutch performance included 18 points, with seven of those crucial points coming in the fourth quarter. She also played a pivotal role on defense, tallying four steals alongside her seven assists and six rebounds.

Mikayla Etienne (Ouachita Parish HS, Monroe, LA) proved to be a game-changer off the bench, lighting up the court with 19 points, including some impressive three-pointers. Lexi Alexander, an All-Southland second team member, delivered a stellar performance with 13 points and 10 rebounds, marking her seventh double-double of the season.

Deonna Brister also made her presence felt with 12 points in the second half, shooting a perfect 4-4 from the field. Her contributions on both ends of the court, including five rebounds and three steals, were instrumental in securing the victory for the Colonels.

Despite a valiant effort from New Orleans, led by Nora Francois and DeArica Pryor, who combined for 41 points, the Privateers couldn't withstand Nicholls State's relentless defense and efficient offense.

This win not only breaks a five-game losing streak against New Orleans but also marks Nicholls State's first postseason victory since 2021.