PINEVILLE – Louisiana Christian University's men's basketball team claimed their first win of 2023 Saturday with a 68-52 win over the visiting Steers of Texas College.
 
Jude Akabueze tallied his second double-double in three games to lead the Wildcats, scoring 12 points and pulling in a game-high 15 rebounds.
 
Malik Cooper scored 11 points for the Wildcats, while Bailey Hardy chipped in nine points for LCU. Hardy also recorded a game-high three steals.
 
After a first half in which neither team was able to build a sizable lead, the Wildcats (6-9, 2-5 RRAC) took control of the game midway through the second half by scoring nine consecutive points between the 10:18 and 8:02 marks of the period. The run gave the 'Cats a 53-44 lead.
 
A run of 11 unanswered LCU points later in the half gave the Wildcats a 64-49 advantage with less than four minutes remaining in the contest.
 
Delor Johnson scored eight points for LCU, while Ferontay Banks and Drew Tebbe tallied seven points apiece for the 'Cats. Tebbe also handed out a team-high three assists.
 
Jayven Humphrey scored a game-high 18 points for Texas College (6-6, 3-5 RRAC).
 
The Wildcats return to action Thursday, Jan. 12, when they visit Paul Quinn College in Dallas, Texas. Game time is scheduled for 7:30 p.m., and will begin approximately 30 minutes after the conclusion of the women's game between the two schools.