The Ragin Cajuns were given a late run for their money on Saturday afternoon by Furman, but the Cajuns kept them at bay to advance in the CollegeInsider.com Tournament by the score of 80-72.
The Cajuns jumped out to an early 9-0 lead and controlled the first half, going up by as much as 18 points. Furman was able to get on a late run to cut the deficit down to nine points, but Bryce Washington was able to get a pair of buckets to end the first half with a 41-28.
Furman continued to be a lot like an unwelcome houseguest throughout the second half, but the Cajuns lead proved to be too much as they never lost the lead the rest of the way
Kasey Shepherd led the Cajuns with 18 points, five boards, four assists, and one steal on the afternoon. Devonta Walker and Jay Wright were right behind him with 17 points apiece.
Stephen Croone led the Paladins with 29 points, five boards, and four assists.
The Cajuns will head back to the Cajundome on Wednesday to face off against an opponent to be determined later.
-Clint Domingue