The LSU men’s basketball team won its fifth straight game at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center yesterday with an 88-78 win over Vanderbilt. Tremont Waters had 28 points and nine assists. Wayde Sims added a career-high 16 points as he started his first game since December 16th. Aaron Epps had 15 points and Skylar Mays added 14 points. The victory gives a 16-11 record, seven and eight in the SEC.

In action tonight, Nicholls State looks to remain all alone in first place in the Southland as the Colonels visit McNeese State. Nicholls has a half-game lead over Southeastern Louisiana for first. Meanwhile, the Cowboys are in 9th place and need a win to help their case at making the Southland Tournament.

Something has to give in San Antonio tonight as Northwestern State visits Incarnate Word. Both teams are winless in the league.

Also, UNO is at Sam Houston State and Tulane visits Witchita State.

Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson has been admitted to a New Orleans hospital with flu-like symptoms. The 90-year-old is in intensive care, but is resting comfortably.

LSU starting shortstop Josh Smith will miss at least a month of the season because of a stress reaction in his vertebrae. Hal Hughes will play shortstop in Smith’s place. But there is some positive injury news. Coach Paul Mainieri says starting catcher Hunter Feduccia will be back tonight against UNO after suffering an injured hand in preseason practice…
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Thibodaux native Cam Sanders will start on the mound tonight against UNO.

Also tonight, UL Lafayette is at Southeastern Louisiana. Last night the Lions beat Alcorn State seven to one, ULM thumped Northwestern State 11-6 and Lousiaina Tech topped McNeese 5-1.