Pleasant carries Abilene Christian over New Orleans 77-71

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Joe Pleasant scored 19 points as Abilene Christian defeated New Orleans 77-71 on Wednesday night to win a Southland Conference opener. Payten Ricks added 17 points for the Wildcats, making four of their seven 3-pointers.

Abilene Christian was 7 of 15 from distance, a season-best 47%. Clay Gayman chipped in 15.

Kolton Kohl had 11 points for Abilene Christian (6-5, 1-0), which won its fourth consecutive game.

Troy Green had 19 points for the Privateers (4-6, 0-1), the preseason favorite in the Southland. He also had seven turnovers, four assists and five boards. Jaylen Key added 16 points. Bryson Robinson and Ahren Freeman scored 14 points each.

Abilene Christian plays Nicholls State at home on Saturday. New Orleans plays Sam Houston State on the road on Saturday.

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