THIBODAUX, La. (Interstat) — A surging Stephen F. Austin squad aims to continue its dominant run in Southland Conference play when it visits Nicholls State on Monday night at Stopher Gym. The Lumberjacks (15-3, 4-1 SLC) enter on a three-game winning streak, most recently edging New Orleans 84-79 on the road Saturday. Their high-powered offense, which has scored 80 or more points in nine games this season, will test a Colonels defense that allowed 90 points in a home loss to Lamar that same day. Stephen F. Austin’s success has been built on balance, but junior forward Jerald Colonel provides a key interior presence. Over his last seven games, Colonel has been a consistent contributor on the boards and as a shot-blocker, including an eight-rebound, three-block performance in a win at Southeastern Louisiana on Jan. 3. Nicholls State (8-10, 3-2) looks to rebound and protect its home court after the deflating loss to Lamar snapped a two-game conference win streak. The Colonels have shown resilience at home this season, with notable conference victories over Texas A&M-Commerce and Incarnate Word in Thibodaux. The matchup pits one of the league’s top teams against a program seeking consistency. Stephen F. Austin’s potent attack, averaging 78.2 points per game, contrasts with a Nicholls State offense averaging 77.7 points but struggling more frequently on defense. Monday’s contest is the first of two regular-season meetings between the schools. They will meet again in Nacogdoches, Texas, on Feb. 21. For Nicholls State, halting the Lumberjacks’ momentum is critical to staying in the upper half of the conference standings. For Stephen F. Austin, a road victory would solidify its position as a Southland title contender ahead of a key homestand later this month. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CST.