James Washington scores 23, leads Middle Tennessee to 68-58 win over Louisiana-Lafayette

Middle Tennessee tops Louisiana-Lafayette 68-58

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — James Washington scored 23 points to pace Middle Tennessee to a 68-58 victory over Louisiana-Lafayette on Saturday night.

Washington also dished out five assists for the Blue Raiders (7-6, 2-0 Sun Belt Conference), who have now won four straight. J.T. Sulton chipped in with 11 points.

Trailing by six points, Tyren Johnson made 1 of 2 free throws for the Ragin’ Cajuns to cut Middle Tennessee’s lead to 59-54 with 3:47 remaining. But the Blue Raiders would respond with a quick 8-0 run, giving themselves a 67-54 advantage with 1:51 left in the game.

Chris Gradnigo scored 23 points to lead Louisiana-Lafayette (4-10, 1-2), who are on a five-game losing streak. Johnson added 10 points.

Middle Tennessee outrebounded the Ragin’ Cajuns 37-24, and won the game despite turning the ball over 20 times.