STWF Sports| NEW ORLEANS|Nov. 17, 2025 — University of New Orleans senior guard Coleton Benson has officially announced himself as one of the most dangerous scorers in the Southland Conference. On Monday, the Texas-born sharpshooter was named Southland Player of the Week after a pair of standout performances against in-state foes LSU and Tulane—punctuated by a career night that rewrote the Privateers’ record book.

Benson, a native of Austin, averaged 21.5 points per game across the two-match stretch while showcasing elite efficiency and composure. He shot 47.8% from the field, blistered the nets with a 52.6% mark from three-point range, and went a perfect 11-for-11 from the free-throw line, extending his season-long streak to 15 straight makes. Across 63 minutes of action, he added 3.5 rebounds per game and provided a steadying presence on both ends of the floor.

Career Night Against Tulane

Benson’s week was highlighted by his performance against Tulane—a game that stands among the finest ever by a Privateer. He erupted for a career-high 33 points, the most scored by any Southland Conference player against a Division I opponent this season. His eight made three-pointers came on just 12 attempts, falling one shy of the UNO single-game record shared by James Parlow (2007) and Bryson Robinson (2019).

His free-throw shooting remained flawless as well, as he finished 7-for-7 from the line while also grabbing a season-best five rebounds. Whether he was knocking down spot-up looks, drifting off screens, or creating space off the dribble, Benson’s rhythm was undeniable.

The Green Wave had no answer.

Consistency Against LSU

While his Tulane explosion stole the headlines, Benson was equally important in the matchup with LSU. He delivered timely baskets, spaced the floor, and remained a stabilizing offensive force as the Privateers battled one of the SEC’s most physical defensive units. His week-long performance showcased maturity, patience, and the evolution of a veteran leader capable of carrying the offense.

Joining Elite Company

With Monday’s announcement, Benson becomes the first UNO player to earn Southland Player of the Week honors since Jordan Johnson did so in January 2024. He is now the 14th Privateer in program history to receive the recognition and the seventh individual player to earn the award.

His honor places him among a notable lineage of former standouts, including:

• Kevin Hill (2014, 2016)

• Erik Thomas (2016)

• Bryson Robinson (2018)

• Troy Green (2021, 2022)

• Derek St. Hilaire (three-time winner from 2021–22)

• Jordan Johnson (two-time honoree in 2023)

Now, Benson joins that list with his first career selection on November 17, 2025—a date that could prove to be a defining moment in his senior season.

A Sharpshooter in Peak Form

Through the opening stretch of the season, Benson has emerged as one of the most reliable perimeter threats in the Southland. His flawless free-throw shooting, high-volume scoring, and relentless confidence have elevated the Privateers’ offense and delivered a spark when needed most.

Head coach Mark Slessinger praised Benson’s work ethic earlier in the season, and this week’s performance is the latest reflection of that commitment. If his shooting streak continues, Benson could be positioning himself not only for more conference honors but potential postseason accolades as well.

🔥 PLAYER OF THE WEEK! 🔵⚔️
UNO senior sharpshooter Coleton Benson has been named Southland Player of the Week after a historic two-game stretch vs. LSU and Tulane.

📊 Weekly Stats:
• 21.5 PPG
• 47.8% FG
• 52.6% 3PT
• 11/11 FT (15/15 on the season)
• 3.5 RPG

💥 Career Night vs. Tulane:
• 33 points (Southland-high vs a D1 opponent)
• 8 threes (1 shy of UNO record)
• Perfect 7/7 FT

Benson becomes the 14th Privateer ever to earn the award and the first since Jordan Johnson in 2024.

UNO has a certified bucket on its hands. 🎯💙

#NOLAsTeam #PrivateerNation #SouthlandStrong #CollegeHoops #STWFSports

Privateers Look Ahead

With Benson catching fire, the Privateers hope the momentum will carry into their upcoming Southland slate. His ability to stretch the floor, punish defensive lapses, and deliver in big moments makes him the centerpiece of UNO’s offensive attack.

If this week is any indication, Coleton Benson’s senior year is only just beginning—and the Southland Conference has officially been put on notice.