THIBODAUX, La. –  Sh'Diamond McKnight scored 19 points in the Nicholls State University women's basketball team's 69-59 loss to McNeese inside Stopher Gym on Thursday night.
 
Nicholls started the game strong off strong on both ends as they jumped out to an 18-11 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Colonels hot start was spearheaded by McKnight who scored nine points in the first 10 minutes.
 
The Colonels kept their momentum rolling into the second quarter as they hit six field goals while allowing the Cowgirls to hit two in the second stanza. The Red & Gray held the Cowgirls scoreless the final three minutes of the half and forced eight missed shots in that time span to generate a 34-22 lead at the intermission.
 
The third quarter was a different story as the McNeese began the quarter on a 19-2 run to take a 41-36 lead five minutes into the second half. The Cowgirls hit 11 field goals including four triples while the Colonels offense went stagnant as they hit three shots. The Colonels trailed 51-46 heading into the fourth quarter.
 
The Red & Gray offense continued to struggle in the fourth quarter as they hit three field goals and committed seven turnovers in the final frame. McNeese hit seven shots including two triples and two foul shots to keep the Colonels at bay.
 
Tanita Swift hit three shots and six free throws to finish with 12 points while Emani Burks added nine points and six rebounds. Anyra Wilson paced the offense with five assists.
 
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Nicholls will host Southeastern on Saturday, Feb. 28 at 1 p.m. The Colonels will honor their seniors prior to the contest.