BEAUMONT, Texas (Interstat) — MJ Thomas scored 19 points to lead New Orleans to a 77-71 victory over Lamar in a men’s NCAA Division I basketball game Saturday at Montagne Center. The Privateers improved to 14-15 overall, while the Cardinals fell to 12-16.

New Orleans built a 32-29 halftime lead and maintained control in the second half despite Lamar’s late push. The Privateers were more efficient offensively, shooting 45.5% from the floor and 77.8% from the free-throw line. Lamar shot just 36.4% overall and 58.3% on free throws.

Thomas led all scorers. Coleton Benson added 14 points for New Orleans. Errol White and Andrew Holifield each scored 14 for Lamar. The announced attendance was 2,103.