Northwestern State knocks off New Orleans 84-71

Mar 1, 2014, 09:57 pm

NEW ORLEANS -- Jalan West had 24 points, six assists and four steals to lead Northwestern State to an 84-71 victory over New Orleans Saturday night.

The victory, coupled with Nicholls losing 69-67 to Incarnate Word Saturday, gives Northwestern State sole possession of fourth place in the Southland Conference. The top four places receive a first-round bye in the conference tournament, set to begin March 12.

Northwestern State, which has won 9 of its last 11 games, took a 19-17 lead midway of the first half following a dunk by Brison White. The Demons never trailed again and were up 39-28 at the half. They stretched that to 73-58 with 6:20 remaining in the game.

DeQuan Hicks had 22 points and Zikiteran Woodley added 18 for Northwestern State (14-13, 10-6). The Demons made 32 of 61 field goal attempts.

Kevin Hill led New Orleans (11-13, 8-8) with 21 points.