The Nicholls Colonels host the East Texas A&M Lions at 11 a.m. today in their second matchup of the season, closing out the year on their home court.

The Colonels and Lions have identical records at 13-15 overall and 9-12 in the Southland Conference. The top eight teams qualifying for the conference tournament and the Lions ranked at seven with the Colonels at eight, this game has major implications for seeding. 

In the previous matchup between these teams, the Colonels fell 68-57 in a game that was a lot closer than the final score. The Colonels main issue in that game was shooting percentage; the Colonels shot 36.2% from the field and a season worst 6.3% from three. If the Colonels can improve their shooting they can truly push the needle against the Lions.

Players to Watch

Despite the loss in the previous performance, three players had significant performances. Marie Kenembeni led the Colonels in points with 19 and rebounds with eight, she added three assists and two steals.

Tanita Swift scored eight points, led the colonels in assists with four, added seven rebounds and grabbed three steals.

Jasmine Matthews scored eight points on a team high 67% shooting, in just 17 minutes. She grabbed three rebounds as well.

The Colonels expect big performances from these three and overall improvement on shooting to push the team to success.

On the other hand, three players truly stood out for the Lions in the last matchup that led to their comeback win.

Reza Po led all players in points with 24, she added three assists and three rebounds.

Tiani Ellison recorded a double double with 13 points and 10 rebounds, to go along with two assists, three steals and two blocks.

Ahmya Boyce scored 11 points, dished out an assist and grabbed two steals.

The Lions will need big games from their stars to compete against the Colonels.