Final Stats Final Stats

THIBODAUX, La. – The Nicholls State University women's basketball team put together a total-team effort in its home opener against ULM, finishing with five scorers in double figures - led by LiAnn McCarthy's 17, as the Colonels cruised to an 85-60 win over their in-state rivals on Friday night.

In the win, Nicholls (3-1) reached 80 points for the second straight outing, shooting a remarkable 56.5 percent (35 of 62) from the field. McCarthy's 17 came off of 7 of 10 from the field and 3 of 4 from behind the arc. As a team, Nicholls was efficient from behind the arc, nailing 6 of 13 (46.2 percent).

The victory for Nicholls also carried some historic significance. The Colonels defeated the Warhawks (0-3) for only the seventh time in 47 matchups, and Nicholls' 3-1 record matches the 2001-02 team for the best start in program history. Nicholls will look to break the mark against Louisiana-Lafayette on Monday at Stopher Gym.

Just like their last outing, Nicholls immediately jumped out to quick lead, going up 7-0 after a three from McCarthy and two buckets by Alisha Allen, who finished with 10 points. Midway through the half, Nicholls grabbed a 20-7 lead when Kishaun Williams knocked down a jumper. Williams was part of an impressive showing for the Colonel reserves, scoring 11 of the team's 42 points off the bench.

Nicholls gained its largest lead right before the half as Hope Palowski stole the ball and dished it to Jenny Nash for a fast break layup, making the score 42-22. Nash scored all 10 of her points in the first half.

ULM, despite a game-high 22 points and 12 rebounds from Ashleigh Simmons, never cut the deficit to closer than 16 points, which was early in the second half. Nicholls led by as much as 30 before claiming the 25-point victory.

Jasmine Scott came off the bench to pace the team in rebounding, notching seven as Nicholls had a 36-34 edge on the boards. Scott missed only one shot on the night, hitting all four attempts from the free throw line, while going 4 of 5 from the field for 12 points. Emani White and KK Babin led the team with five assists each.

On defense, Nicholls held ULM to 40.7 percent from the field, 1 of 12 from 3-point range and forced 24 turnovers. The Colonels collected 15 steals, led by Palowski with five.

Nicholls will close out its 2012 home schedule against Louisiana-Lafayette on Monday, Nov. 19. Tickets for the game can be purchased at NichollsTickets.com or by calling (985) 448-4790.