THIBODAUX, La. – The Nicholls State University basketball team received significant contributions from freshmen Kevin Johnson and Ryghe Lyons in its 77-60 win over UIW Saturday night at Stopher Gymnasium.

Johnson posted career highs in points (15) and rebounds (9) while Lyons totaled a career- and game-high 16 points. Lyons also chipped in five blocks, marking his fourth straight outing with multiple swats. Senior Kimani Jackson achieved his first double-double in the Red and Gray, adding 15 points and 12 boards.

The Colonels (8-7, 2-0 SLC) shot 51 percent from the field and limited the Cardinals (5-7, 0-2 SLC) to just 36 percent. Nicholls tallied 18 points on 21 UIW turnovers; the Colonels have forced 20-plus turnovers in five of the last six contests. Nicholls held solid edges on points in the paint (36-20) and second-chance points (23-11).

 "I'm really proud of our team's effort tonight and our ability to fight through adversity," Nicholls head coach Richie Riley said. "We had multiple guys step up and make winning plays. That's what we preach everyday in our program. Protecting home court in conference play is huge, and I am proud our guys were able to do that."

The Colonels opened with the first seven points capped by back-to-back dunks on feeds from senior Tevon Saddler. Sparked by a three from Johnson, Nicholls closed the final 6:20 of the opening half on a 12-3 run to take a 35-22 lead at the break.

Nicholls also converted 10 of the first 12 points in the second half to see its margin increase to 21 at 45-24, an advantage that would not be surmounted.

The Colonels travel to Nacogdoches, Texas for a battle with Stephen F. Austin Wednesday. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.

Get your season or single game tickets now by calling 985-448-4790 or visiting nichollstickets.com. To stay up to date with Nicholls men's basketball, follow the team on Twitter @Nicholls_MBB.