NACOGDOCHES, Texas (Interstat) — Stephen F. Austin used a dominant performance from beyond the arc to remain undefeated, pulling away from Abilene Christian for a 76-66 victory in a Western Athletic Conference men’s basketball game Friday night at William R. Johnson Coliseum.

The Lumberjacks improved to 4-0 on the season, while the Wildcats fell to 3-1.

The game was a tale of contrasting offensive philosophies. While both teams finished with an identical 24 made field goals and an equal number of possessions, Stephen F. Austin’s remarkable three-point shooting proved to be the decisive factor. The Lumberjacks connected on 13 of 23 attempts from deep, a 56.5 percent clip, while Abilene Christian managed just 2 of 10 from long range.

Stephen F. Austin’s offensive efficiency was on full display, as they posted an offensive rating of 111.2 points per 100 possessions compared to Abilene Christian’s 97.0. This efficiency overcame a significant disadvantage in the paint, where the Wildcats outscored the Lumberjacks 40-20, and a struggle at the free-throw line where Stephen F. Austin shot just 15 for 26.

The first half was a tightly contested affair, with Stephen F. Austin taking a narrow 35-33 lead into halftime. The Lumberjacks began to create separation early in the second period, building a double-digit lead that the Wildcats could not overcome. Stephen F. Austin outscored Abilene Christian 41-33 after the break.

Narit Chotikavanic led all scorers with 24 points for Stephen F. Austin, fueled by a sharp-shooting night from three-point range. Keon Thompson recorded a double-double with 15 points and 12 rebounds, adding six assists in a well-rounded performance. Lateef Patrick also provided a significant scoring punch with 18 points.

For Abilene Christian, Yaniel Rivera was the primary offensive threat, finishing with 19 points. Chilaydrien Newton contributed 12 points and eight rebounds, while Rich Smith added 10 points and six rebounds. Bradyn Hubbard just missed a double-double with nine points and eight rebounds.

Defensively, Stephen F. Austin’s Jerald Colonel was a force in the paint, registering four blocked shots. The Lumberjacks also won the turnover battle, committing only seven giveaways compared to 10 for the Wildcats, leading to an 8-6 edge in points off turnovers.

The Lumberjacks, who were pregame favorites by 7.5 points, covered the spread. The total score of 142 fell just under the over/under line of 143.5. Stephen F. Austin’s victory also defied the Interstat ELO system, which had given Abilene Christian a slight 53.40 percent probability to win.

Stephen F. Austin looks to continue its winning streak on the road Tuesday at Fresno State. Abilene Christian will attempt to rebound Tuesday with a road game against Texas State.