NATCHITOCHES, La. (Interstat) — Northwestern State overcame a slow start to defeat Incarnate Word 54-49 in a Southland Conference men’s basketball game Monday night at Prather Coliseum.

The Demons trailed by five at halftime but outscored the Cardinals 36-26 after the break. Micah Thomas led Northwestern State with 18 points, while Willie Williams added 15. Davion Bailey scored a game-high 21 points for Incarnate Word in the loss.

Both teams struggled offensively, combining to shoot under 35% from the field. Northwestern State secured the win at the free-throw line, making 14 of 19 attempts compared to 10 of 15 for the Cardinals. The Demons improved to 10-19, while Incarnate Word fell to 11-18.