Preview: Stephen F. Austin Looks to Extend Hot Start Against New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS (Interstat) — The surging Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks will put their impressive record on the line when they visit the New Orleans Privateers in a men’s NCAA Division I basketball game Saturday at Kiefer Lakefront Arena.

The Lumberjacks (14-3) have won six of their last seven games, including a 56-46 defensive win over Incarnate Word on Monday. Keon Thompson led with 15 points in that contest, while key contributor Jerald Colonel added 10 points and two blocks. Colonel, a versatile forward, has been a consistent presence, averaging 5.1 points and 4.6 rebounds per game while providing strong interior defense.

Stephen F. Austin’s success has been built on a balanced attack and stout defense, holding opponents to an average of 60.2 points during their current three-game win streak.

New Orleans (7-11) seeks consistency after a 79-76 road win at Southeastern Louisiana on Monday snapped a two-game skid. That victory was powered by a career-high 30 points from guard Coleton Benson. Benson has emerged as a premier scorer for the Privateers, averaging 19.2 points per game and reaching double figures in 16 straight contests. His backcourt matchup with SFA’s Thompson will be a focal point.

The Privateers have struggled at times defensively, allowing 90 points in a loss to Nicholls State last Saturday. Containing SFA’s multifaceted offense, which has topped 85 points four times this season, will be a significant challenge.

Historically, Stephen F. Austin has dominated the series, winning the last 11 meetings. Their most recent matchup was an 84-62 Lumberjacks victory on Feb. 10, 2025.

For New Orleans, a win would provide a major boost in conference play and mark a signature victory. For Stephen F. Austin, it represents a chance to solidify its position atop the league standings before a quick turnaround at Nicholls State on Monday.

Tip-off is set for Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, in New Orleans.