BEAUMONT, Texas – The New Orleans Privateers had four players reach double figures but the Lamar Cardinals surged in the last three minutes to defeat the Privateers 65-62 at Neches Arena on Thursday night.
New Orleans had a 60-55 advantage with 3:28 remaining but it was the Cardinals who ripped off the next nine points. The Privateers got it back within two after
Brianna Ellis converted a layup to make it 64-62.
R'Mani Taylor was fouled and went to the free throw line but she missed one, which left the door open for a game-tying three-pointer. However, the shot fell short and the Cardinals survived to move to 6-1 in Southland play.
The Privateers defense made a big impact in the first half as they held Lamar to 30.3 percent from the field and 1-of-9 from three-point range. The Privateers also drew 11 fouls and forced 11 Cardinal turnovers in the first 20 minutes.
New Orleans started the game on an 8-2 run. Later in the first, Lamar hit a six-point spurt that tied the game at 12-12 in the final two minutes of the opening stanza. From there, the Privateers recaptured the lead and were able to hold it for most of the half but the lead was no bigger than four points for the remainder of the first half.
INSIDE THE BOX
Alexis Calderon finished with 15 points and four steals.
Justice Ross added 12 points and six assists.
Nora Francois scored 11 points and Ellis finished with 10. The Privateers shot 45.2 percent from the field and held the Cardinals to 35.1 percent from the field.
Akasha Davis finished with 19 points and 16 rebounds. Sabria Dean led all players with 20 points and was 8-for-8 from the free throw line.
NEXT UP
The Privateers will travel to Lake Charles to face McNeese on Saturday. Tip is slated for 1 p.m.
WE ARE YOUR KREWE
For 54 seasons, Privateer student-athletes have had the unique experience of wearing New Orleans across their chests. Like the city itself, our sports teams have been fueled by resiliency, grit, and the unquenchable desire to win. Our city also houses the nation's biggest celebration each year. And much like a Mardi Gras parade krewe, we are tethered to our community through pride, tradition, a culture of acceptance, and finally our commitment to show that New Orleans is a world-class city to live, learn, play and work. We invite you to become more involved with the only University that truly represents New Orleans all day, every day. Join #NOLAsTeam, We Are Your Krewe!
Visit UNOPrivateers.com/signup to stay connected and follow us @UNOPrivateers on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
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