WACO, Texas – The Nicholls State University men's basketball team dropped an 81-54 decision to Baylor University Friday morning at the Ferrell Center.

The Colonels (2-3) shot just 33 percent (18-55) from the field, including 4-for-26 from long range. Graduate transfer Jeremiah Jefferson tallied a team-high 13 points. Junior Thomas Clement contributed eight points in the final four minutes of the game.

The Bears (3-1) had five players finish in double figures led by freshman Matthew Mayer's 18.  He was followed by Makai Mason (11), King McClure (11), Mark Vital (11) and Tristan Clark (10).

Nicholls experienced a cold-shooting first half, connecting on just 27 percent of their shots, including 2-of-13 from long range. The Bears received 11 first-half points from Mayer while doubling Nicholls' made field goals. Mason drained 3-of-4 threes in the opening period.

A 3-pointer by Devonte Bandoo at 16:28 in the second half prompted a 20-point scoring barrage for Baylor, ballooning the advantage to 38. Clement entered with 3:36 to play and knocked down two free throws before closing the contest with back-to-back triples. Senior Daniel Regis also set a new career high with four blocks.

Nicholls returns to action Tuesday at Ole Miss. Tipoff on the SEC Network is scheduled for 6:01 p.m.

Get your season or single-game tickets now by calling 985-448-4790 or visiting nichollstickets.com. For the latest news on Nicholls men's basketball, follow the team on Twitter @Nicholls_MBB.