STWF Sports | Jan. 9, 2026 | NEW ORLEANS — Momentum is beginning to take shape for the New Orleans Privateers as they prepare for a critical Southland Conference stretch that could define the middle portion of their season. Riding the confidence of a conference win and measurable improvements on both ends of the floor, New Orleans returns home Saturday night to host league-leading Nicholls at Lakefront Arena before hitting the road Monday for a rivalry matchup at Southeastern in Hammond.
The Privateers (5-10, 3-3 Southland) evened their conference record earlier this week with an 83–73 victory over East Texas A&M, a game that showcased growth, discipline, and late-game composure. After building a narrow lead down the stretch, New Orleans closed the door at the free throw line, going a perfect 10-for-10 in the final minute to seal the win.
Junior forward MJ Thomas delivered one of the most dominant performances of his career, pulling down a career-high 19 rebounds while anchoring the interior. His presence on the glass proved decisive, especially as the Privateers absorbed pressure late and converted opportunities from the stripe. Thomas has now recorded double-doubles in back-to-back games, becoming the first Privateer to do so this season. He has three double-doubles this year and nine in his collegiate career at New Orleans.
Since conference play began, Thomas has emerged as one of the league’s most consistent rebounders. He currently ranks tied for first in the Southland in rebounds per game during league play, averaging 9.5 per contest. His steady production has provided New Orleans with a reliable foundation as the team continues to refine its identity.
One of the most encouraging developments for the Privateers has been a significant reduction in turnovers. Over their last four games, New Orleans has averaged just 11.5 turnovers, a sharp contrast from the 15.4 per game they committed over the first 11 contests of the season. The win against East Texas A&M marked the fourth time this year the Privateers committed 10 or fewer turnovers, a stat that reflects improved ball security and decision-making.
Depth has also begun to surface as a strength. Irish Coquia and Jamal Chretien earned their first starts in a Privateer uniform against East Texas A&M and responded with efficient performances. The pair combined for 47 minutes, contributed 13 points, and committed just one turnover between them. Their inclusion marked the ninth and tenth different players to start a game for New Orleans this season, underscoring the team’s evolving rotation.
Saturday’s matchup against Nicholls (7-6, 6-0) presents a significant challenge. The Colonels enter undefeated in conference play and have shown an ability to win close games, narrowly escaping defeat on multiple occasions. Three of their last four victories have come by five points or fewer, including a 74–72 decision over Northwestern State. Leading the way is Jalik Dunkley, the reigning Southland Player of the Week, who tops the Colonels in both scoring and rebounding at 13.7 points and 6.9 boards per game.
Historically, the matchup has been tightly contested. Nicholls holds a slim 22–21 advantage in the all-time series, adding extra weight to Saturday’s meeting.
Following the home contest, New Orleans will travel to face Southeastern (5-10, 2-4) on Monday night. The Lions are coming off a 60–52 win over Lamar and feature balanced contributors. Jeremy Elyzee leads the team at 11.7 points per game, while Isaiah Gaines ranks among the league’s top rebounders at 5.5 per contest.
With improved discipline, emerging depth, and renewed confidence, the Privateers enter the week with an opportunity to climb the Southland standings and establish momentum as conference play intensifies. This is a game you do not want to miss!
