Led by Coleton Benson's 30-point night as well as M.J. Thomas' gutty 18-point, 10-rebound effort, UNO (14-15, 12-8) clinched a winning record in the Southland and bolstered their chances of securing a single bye in the SLC Tournament.
The Privateers jumped out to a 14-4 lead and maintained their edge throughout the first half, leading 31-23 at the break. Like they did in their five-point win at Lakefront Arena earlier this season, SFA came out of the locker room strong, surging ahead briefly before New Orleans' poise helped them regain the lead, which grew as large as 58-45 before a late Lumberjacks surge.
At 69-67, the Privateers missed two shots, but Panagiotis Pagonis rebounded both of them to keep the possession alive, then converted two free throws to extend the lead and help secure the win.
T.J. Cope added 11 points for New Orleans, and Jay Buckley struggled with his shot but contributed 11 assists.
UNO will return home with confidence to face McNeese on Saturday.
