LOUISIANA La. -- Western Kentucky's Nigel Dixon, a 6-foot-11, 350-pound center, is fondly referred to as "Big Jelly" by University of Louisiana basketball coach Jessie Evans.

However things could indeed get sticky for ULL in the frontcourt at 7:05 p.m. today if Dixon plays up to his capabilities.

Dixon, a senior transfer from Florida State, could be the Cajuns' biggest problem at E.A. Diddle Arena in Bowling Green, Ky., when they visit Western Kentucky for a Sun Belt Conference game.

On Saturday Dixon scored 23 points and pulled down eight rebounds in WKU's 73-58 win over New Mexico State.

He also leads the Hilltoppers in scoring (15.6 ppg) and rebounding (9.5 rpg).

"With Dixon they (WKU) have quite a weapon on the inside and that will be tough to match up against," Evans said.

"If you double 'Big Jelly' inside, that's going to leave someone else open. We will probably double him, front him and match him, give them some different looks.

"The main thing for us is not to give (Dixon) that many open looks."

ULL starts 6-11 Chris Cameron at center, but Evans said the Cajuns will also probably utilize 6-9 senior forward Chris Williams some against Dixon.

Williams became eligible again in December, after sitting out the first several games because of failing to meet NCAA academic standards.

Cedric Williams, another forward (6-7), has been limited recently with an ankle injury, but may also see action.

Western Kentucky (8-9) is 3-3 in the SBC. The Hilltoppers have won three of the last four games under first-year coach Darrin Horn.

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By BOBBY ARDOIN
Special to The Advocate