The Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns’ men’s basketball team fell to the Southern Miss Golden Eagles 67-59 on Saturday night inside the Cajundome. The loss moves the Cajuns to under .500 at 4-5 in the Sun Belt.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
The game began with five quick points for the Golden Eagles. However, Louisiana responded with an 11-0 run to take the lead. Mostapha El Moutaouakkil had six of the points during the run.
After that point, the game went back and forth for the remainder of the half. Each team traded buckets, with neither team creating much separation. Late in the half, Chancellor White and Kentrell Garnett made back-to-back threes to help the Cajuns grab a 35-31 advantage at the break.
The back and forth nature of the contest would continue, although Louisiana tried to gain control. Their best chance was when they took a 43-36 lead after a Garnett layup. However, the Golden Eagles worked to cut into the deficit. At the under eight minute timeout, the lead was just one at 50-49.
Down the stretch, the Golden Eagles took control with a 62-59 lead. The Cajuns made an attempt to cut into the lead, but committed a turnover out of bounds. Southern Miss made both free throws to extend the lead to 64-59, and the Cajuns couldn’t convert on the other end. Southern Miss held on 67-59.
BIG NUMBER: 10
The Cajuns were out-rebounded by double-digits in this contest. While Louisiana remained close in most categories, they were out-rebounded enough to make a difference.
PLAYER OF THE GAME: Deantoni Gordon
Southern Miss’ senior forward made a difference with his 13 points. He also had four rebounds as the Golden Eagles were able to clinch the victory.
UP NEXT: The Cajuns will be on the road in San Marcos to take on Texas State on Saturday, January 30th at 7:00 PM.