Bearkats Burst Our Bubble

Thomas' potential game-tying
free throw missed with 3.4 left

Entering Thursday's game at Lakefront Arena with its best conference start since 1992-93, the Privateers (9-7, 4-1) were brought down to earth by Sam Houston State, a team it hasn't beaten since entering the Southland Conference four seasons ago.  Though UNO rallied furiously late, they ultimately fell short by a 70-68 count.

New Orleans trailed by 12 at the break and spent most of the second half trading baskets with the preseason league favorite Bearkats.  The Bucs began slowly chipping away down the stretch, finally tying the score on a Travin Thibodaux three-point play with just over a minute left.

But the Bearkats quickly went back in front and then, with 3.4 seconds left, Erik Thomas, who shot 11-for-12 from the foul line and led New Orleans with 25 points, missed a potential game-tying free throw.  Nate Frye got the offensive rebound but was tied up, and the Bearkats had the possession arrow.

UNO gets a week off before returning to its home court next Thursday against Houston Baptist.