Jan. 9, 2003

Box Score

Thibodaux, La. - The Stephen F. Austin Ladyjack basketball team battled back from an early 17-point deficit to knock-off Nicholls State, 56-53, Thursday night. The Ladyjacks are now 4-7 overall and 4-0 in the Southland Conference.

Nicholls State jumped out to a 25-8 first-half advantage against SFA, led by Crescent Washington's 17 points and two rebounds. But the Ladyjacks used a 7-0 run to close out the half trailing by only eight, 30-22. Senior Nathesia Wright sparked the run with her 10 points.

The Ladyjacks closed the gap to two points in the second half but Nicholls State went on 8-0 run to extend its lead back to 10, 49-39, with only 8:17 remaining. But the Ladyjacks didn't give up. SFA battled right back to tie the game at 51 with only 2:23 remaining. Freshman Britany Vinson gave SFA their first lead of the game when she knocked down a three-pointer with 1:24 on the clock. Vinson finished the game with a team-high 14 points. SFA hit its free throws down the stretch to hold on for the victory.

Senior Amy Collins finished the game with 12 points and six rebounds. Freshman LaToya Mills scored four points and pulled down a game-high 10 rebounds.

The Ladyjacks return to action Saturday afternoon in Hammond, La., against Southeastern Louisiana. The against the Lady Lions is slated to get underway at 4 p.m.