Sam Houston State has hot start, smokes S.F. Austin 94-72

Feb 3, 2019, 04:01 am

HUNTSVILLE, Texas -- Cameron Delaney had 18 points and Kai Mitchell 16 with 10 rebounds as Sam Houston State came out smoking to take a big halftime lead and coasted to a 94-72 victory over Stephen F. Austin on Saturday night to remain undefeated in Southland Conference play.

Sam Houston State (14-8, 9-0) which finished the nonconference schedule 5-8, has not lost in 2019. The Lumberjacks, preseason favorites, had beaten SHSU in 16 of their last 17 meetings. This was the largest margin of victory for SHSU over the Lumberjacks since 1979.

The Bearkats took a 58-34 lead into the break after shooting 69 percent (20-29) from the floor and nailing 6 of 8 from long range in the first half. They were also perfect at the line, going 12-12. SHSU finished shooting 51 percent (33-65) while making 12 of 26 from distance. The Bearkats also won the rebound battle 45-25.

Chad Bowie added 13 points and Josh Delaney chipped in 11 for the Bearkats.

Kevon Harris had 20 and Shannon Bogues 19 points for SFA (11-9, 4-4) which saw its three-game win streak snapped.