THIBODAUX, La. (AP) Johnathan Bell, who finished with 20 points, made two free throws in the final seconds as Nicholls held off Abilene Christian for a 62-59 victory on Thursday night.

Bell made a layup as Nicholls took the lead 38-36 with 15:53 remaining. The Colonels led 54-48 with 4:08 left. Abilene Christian closed to 58-56 after Jalone Friday drilled a 3-pointer with 1:46 to play. Ja'Dante' Frye answered with a layup and ACU's Isaiah Tripp quickly followed with a trey to trail 60-59 with 18 seconds remaining. Bell sank the two free throws with 14 seconds left to seal the win.

Jaylen Franklin missed two free throws and Jaren Lewis misfired on a 3 in the final second.

Liam Thomas grabbed 13 rebounds and tied his career-best with nine blocks for Nicholls (10-9, 3-3 Southland Conference). Frye had 16 points and Stevie Repichowski added 12.

Friday led ACU (8-10, 2-5) with 21 points.

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