LAKE CHARLES, La. (Interstat) — A surging McNeese State squad will look to protect its home floor and solidify its position atop the Southland Conference when it hosts New Orleans on Saturday at Burton Coliseum.

The Cowboys (15-4) have won five of their last six games, including a decisive 69-53 road victory over Texas A&M-Corpus Christi on Monday. Forward Larry Johnson has been a consistent force, averaging 17.1 points over his last seven contests. He nearly posted a double-double with 17 points and nine rebounds in the win over the Islanders.

McNeese State’s conference success, which includes a 5-1 league mark, contrasts sharply with the up-and-down season of the Privateers (8-12). New Orleans is 3-3 in its last six games, coming off an 89-76 home win over Lamar on Monday. Guard Jakevion Buckley orchestrated that victory with 13 points and eight assists, continuing a stretch of strong play where he has averaged 16.4 points and 5.6 assists over his last seven outings.

The Privateers will need Buckley at his best to challenge a stout McNeese State defense that has held opponents to an average of 60.2 points during its current three-game home winning streak. New Orleans has struggled on the road this season, posting a 2-8 record away from home.

This matchup is the first of two scheduled meetings between the teams this season. They will meet again in New Orleans on Feb. 28. For now, the Cowboys aim to maintain their momentum while the Privateers seek a statement road win to climb the conference standings.

Tipoff is set for Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026.