WACO, TEXAS - Mercedes Johnson recorded her second career double-double, but it was not enough as Louisiana's women's basketball team fell to Lamar University, 66-58 at the World Vision Classic. Johnson had a career-night, scoring 22 points while grabbing 14 boards.

With the loss the Cajuns fall to 1-2 on the year. Lamar now sits a 4-1.

The Cajuns opened with a 6-2 run and lead by as much as five points for most of the half. At the 7:46 mark, UL still maintained a 17-13 lead, but Lamar was able to grab their first lead of the game at the 6:18 mark, 18-17.

The Cajuns and the Lady Cardinals traded baskets for the remainder of the half. Mercedes Lewis led the Cajuns with 15 points and seven rebounds as UL took a 30-28 lead into halftime.

UL extended their lead to six points, 34-28, to open the second half with a 6-0 run. A three-pointer by Alexis Green at the 14:51 mark, gave the Cajuns a 41-35dvantage.

The Cardinals closed to within one point with 10:21 left and would take the lead on the next possession, 47-46. Lamar then put together a 10-point run to pull away at the 3:56 mark, 57-46.

The two teams traded points over the final minutes, but as the final horn sounded, Lamar led 66-58.

Green joined Johnson in double figures, chipping in 17 points and pulling down five rebounds. Lyndra Bell added a career-best 10 rebounds.

Turnovers plagued the Cajuns as they committed 19 on the night.

Lamar won the battle in paint, outscoring UL 30-22. But the Cajuns won the battle of the boards, 56-51.

Brittany Williams led Lamar with 20 points. Trashanna Smith had a game-high 20 rebounds along with 13 points.

Next up for the Cajuns at the World Vision Classic will be tournament host, No. 8 Baylor. Tip-off is set for 12 p.m. CT on Saturday.


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