THIBODAUX, La. (Interstat) — Larry Johnson scored 25 points to lead McNeese State to a 75-65 victory over Nicholls State in a Southland Conference men’s basketball game Monday night at Stopher Gym.

The Cowboys built a 40-31 halftime lead and maintained control throughout the second half before an announced crowd of 912. Tyshawn Archie added 18 points and five assists for McNeese State, which improved to 26-5 overall.

Trae English led the Colonels with 20 points in 40 minutes. Nicholls State fell to 13-18.

McNeese State shot efficiently from the field while Nicholls State struggled, particularly from three-point range. The Cowboys’ defense keyed the win, their second this season over the Colonels.