NEW ORLEANS - Despite a tough 81-57 loss to McNeese in the regular season finale on Wednesday night at Lakefront Arena, the University of New Orleans men's basketball team (9-22, 4-14 SLC) has secured a spot in the 2024 Jersey Mike's Southland Conference Basketball Championships.
With three more overall wins than Houston Christian, New Orleans won the tiebreaker between the two teams and will enter the conference tournament as the eighth seed, set to begin this weekend.
Leading the charge for the Privateers was
Jordan Johnson, who contributed 21 points, five assists, one steal, and one block in his 24th game with 20 or more points. The senior was impressive at the foul line, going 11-of-14. Joining Johnson in double figures for the second consecutive game was
Carlos Hart, who recorded his first double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.
In the opening half, New Orleans showcased strong defensive play by outrebounding McNeese 19-15. Johnson was the only Privateer to score in double figures with 10 points as they trailed the Cowboys 41-30 at halftime. New Orleans also showcased solid free-throw shooting, making 77% of their attempts.
 McNeese shot 46% from the field and 75% from three-point range to extend their lead in the second half and secure the victory.
The Cowboys finished with four in double-figures. Christian Shumate was one of three with 15 points and added on 16 rebounds.
New Orleans shot 34% from the field and 66% from the foul line on the game.
UP NEXT: The Privateers will face #5 Southeastern on Sunday at 5 p.m. in the first round of the tournament at the Legacy Center in Lake Charles.
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For 54 seasons, Privateer student-athletes have had the unique experience of wearing New Orleans across their chests. Â Like the city itself, our sports teams have been fueled by resiliency, grit, and the unquenchable desire to win. Â 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. Â Join #NOLAsTeam, We Are Your Krewe!
