SOUTHLAND CONFERENCE SHOWDOWN SET FOR THIBODAUX

THIBODAUX, La. (Interstat) — Two teams looking to build momentum at the start of the conference slate will meet Saturday when the Texas A&M-Commerce Lions visit the Nicholls State Colonels at Stopher Gym.

The Southland Conference matchup features teams with nearly identical records. The Lions (6-8) enter after a 69-62 home loss to Lamar on Wednesday. The Colonels (5-8) are riding a two-game win streak following a 71-69 road victory at Texas-Rio Grande Valley that same day.

A key individual battle will feature Texas A&M-Commerce guard Ronnie Harrison against Nicholls State’s Jalik Dunkley. Harrison has been a consistent offensive force for the Lions, averaging 15.6 points over his last seven games. He scored 19 points with six rebounds in the loss to Lamar.

Dunkley has been pivotal in the Colonels’ recent success, averaging 18.2 points over his last five contests. He poured in a season-high 22 points, including the game-winning basket at the buzzer, to lift Nicholls State over UTRGV.

Texas A&M-Commerce has struggled offensively in two of its last three, scoring 48 and 62 points in losses to Stephen F. Austin and Lamar, respectively. The Lions will need more scoring support behind Harrison, with Gianni Hunt (12 points, 4 assists vs. Lamar) as a potential secondary option.

Nicholls State has found its rhythm after a tough non-conference schedule that included road games at Creighton, Tulane and Oklahoma State. Alongside Dunkley, Jaylen Searles (13 points, 4 assists vs. UTRGV) provides additional backcourt production.

The Lions hold a slight edge in rebounding, averaging 35.1 per game, but have committed more turnovers than their opponents this season. The Colonels will look to capitalize on their home court, where they are 3-1 this season.

This game opens the Southland Conference schedule for both teams. Texas A&M-Commerce continues its road trip at New Orleans on Monday. Nicholls State remains at home to host Northwestern State that same night.

Tip-off is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, in Thibodaux.