Williams’ 17 points pace hot-shooting Stephen F. Austin’s 66-56 win over Northwestern State

Stephen F. Austin defeats Northwestern State 66-56

NATCHITOCHES, La. — Eddie Williams scored 17 points and Stephen F. Austin shot 57.7 percent (15-for-26) in the second half to pull away to a 66-56 victory over Northwestern State on Wednesday night.

The Lumberjacks (14-5, 4-2 Southland Conference) retained first place in the league’s East Division by holding the Demons (6-12, 1-4), who had shot 56 percent in their two previous games, to 35.3 percent (18-for-51) in this one.

Northwestern State missed all 11 of its 3-point tries.

Stephen F. Austin, which led 32-28 at halftime, increased its advantage to 12 points three times, the last with 1:43 to go after a steal and layup by Williams.

Northwestern State got 17 points from Will Pratt, 15 by Devon Baker and a 13-point, 19-rebound performance from sophomore center William Mosley, who also blocked four shots. It was the third time this season he’s had at least 17 rebounds.