ABILENE, Texas (AP) Rhon Mitchell tossed in 16 points as Lamar snapped a 14-game losing streak with a 65-57 win over Southland Conference newcomer Abilene Christian Thursday night.
Michael Grant converted two free throws to give Abilene Christian a short-lived lead, 38-36, with 13:10 left, but Nimrod Hilliard drilled a 3-pointer to start a 9-0 run that put the Cardinals in the lead for good, 45-38.
Lamar converted 10 straight free throws over the final 8:10 to seal its first conference win.
Lamar (2-17, 1-6 Southland) had four players score in double figures, with Amos Wilson adding 14 points and 11 rebounds, and Donnell Minton and Hilliard adding 12 and 11 points, respectively. The Cardinals shot 47.9 percent from the field (23 of 48).
Abilene Christian (7-12, 1-4) was led by Parker Wenz' 13 points. Julian Edmonson and Austin Cooke added 12 and 10 points, respectively. Riley Payne pulled down 10 rebounds.
