The men’s and women’s basketball teams at Northwestern State University of Louisiana demonstrated determination and growth during their respective runs in the 2025 Southland Conference Championship playoffs in Lake Charles.
In the semifinal against McNeese State University, the men’s team clawed back from a 19-point deficit, narrowing the gap to just five in the second half. Although the comeback ultimately fell short, their effort highlighted a team that thrives under pressure.
“It wasn’t necessarily anything I did,” Rick Cabrera, men’s basketball head coach, said. “Most importantly, our guys took a deep breath and relaxed and just enjoyed the game that they play.”
Senior forward JT Warren reflected on the team’s resilience during the matchup. “We kept talking to each other. We’re a very confident team and believe we can beat anybody in this conference,” Warren said. Cabrera said that Warren led the charge with 19 points and three steals, earning praise as “one of the better guards in this league.”
Another standout was Gerald Colonel, who added 12 points and six rebounds. Cabrera described Colonel as “our anchor defensively” and “phenomenal for us” throughout the season.
Despite McNeese’s stellar three-point shooting — 27 threes across their meetings this season — Cabrera commended his team for giving their best effort against a talented opponent. “At the end of the day, it’s the talent and ability of the individual,” Cabrera said.
The women’s team achieved a significant milestone by advancing past the first round of the tournament for the first time in several years. Their performance was fueled by teamwork and support from their fans.
“I feel proud of the team’s performance,” Jasmin Dixon, a graduate forward, said. “Looking out into the crowd and seeing our amazing fans, band and cheerleaders cheering us on, their support meant everything.”
Dixon reflected on a pivotal moment in the tournament when the team advanced to the next round. “That really boosted our confidence and made us feel like we could take on any challenge,” she said.
Her evolution as a team captain symbolized the growth of the team as a whole. “I’ve learned how crucial communication is and how to be a supportive teammate, which has helped me grow both personally and athletically,” she said.
Both teams left the tournament with valuable lessons. Cabrera emphasized pride in the team’s journey and looks forward to next year. “We look forward to being there next year and holding up a trophy,” he said.
Similarly, Dixon expressed optimism about the team’s potential. “What excites me most about the team’s potential moving forward is our strong foundation and the talent we have,” she said.
Graduate student Sharna Ayres also shared her perspective on the women’s team’s remarkable season. Ayres, who is majoring in health and human performance and sports administration, expressed gratitude for being part of a sports culture that allowed her to grow both on and off the court.
“I think staying within the sports culture, you know, everyone that works in this department or even just within the facilities, it was good really working alongside them,” Ayres said. “With my internship, it’s good to see what they do on the other side of sports, instead of just playing the sports.”
She also reflected on the emotions of competing in the Southland Conference Championships. “It was cool. We never made it past the first game in the tournament before, and that was our goal this year,” Ayres said. “It was very emotional, being my last season, but fun to be there and fun to be with my teammates.”
As a leader on the team, Ayres recognized her role in guiding younger teammates. “Our team was very young this year, with a lot of freshmen. I had to show them what’s right from wrong, the work ethic, and the standard our coach expects,” she said.
Looking ahead, Ayres hopes to leave a legacy characterized by her 3-point shooting and her kindness toward everyone she encounters. “I feel like treating everyone with kindness is a big thing for me,” she said.
Both teams ended their 2024-2025 seasons with a 16-16 overall record. While neither team secured the championship trophy this year, their playoff performances showcased NSU’s competitive spirit and promise for the seasons ahead.
