Cowboys Down Islanders in Dominant Second Half Performance

Larry Johnson scores 14 of his 23 points in the second half to lead McNeese to a 70-54 victory over Texas A&M-Corpus Christi on national TV

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

McNeese freshman Larry Johnson scored 14 of his game-high 23 points in the second half as the Cowboys posted a dominant second half to beat Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, 70-54, in front of a national television audience on ESPNU. The win locked up at least the No. 2 seed for the Southland Conference Tournament for McNeese, who was without defending league player of the year Javohn Garcia due to leg issues.

Why it matters

The victory extends McNeese's impressive home winning streak to 26 games and keeps them in contention for the Southland Conference regular season title. The Cowboys have been one of the top teams in the conference over the past three seasons, going 81-16 overall and 52-5 in Southland play during that span.

The details

McNeese led 24-23 at halftime after falling behind 8-0 and 11-3 early. The Cowboys then took control in the second half, connecting on 63% of their shots and going on a 12-0 run to build a double-digit lead. Johnson had two highlight-reel dunks during that run, and the Cowboys forced 22 Islanders turnovers, scoring 25 points off those miscues.

  • McNeese led 24-23 at the half.
  • The Cowboys went on a 12-0 run early in the second half to take a 36-26 lead with 15:57 to play.

The players

Larry Johnson

A freshman for McNeese who scored a game-high 23 points, including 14 in the second half, and recorded his second double-double of the season with 10 rebounds.

Javohn Garcia

The defending Southland Conference Player of the Year for McNeese, who missed the game due to leg issues.

Nicholas Shogbonyo

The leading scorer for Texas A&M-Corpus Christi with 20 points, including four 3-pointers.

Tyshawn Archie

A McNeese player who finished with 17 points in the win.

Jerrell Colbert

A senior for McNeese who was recognized prior to the game along with two other seniors.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

McNeese will close out its home regular season schedule on Monday when it hosts UTRGV at 6:30. Three seniors will be recognized prior to tip-off – Javohn Garcia, DJ Richards Jr., and Jerrell Colbert.

The takeaway

McNeese has established itself as one of the top teams in the Southland Conference over the past few seasons, and this dominant win over Texas A&M-Corpus Christi on national TV further solidifies their status as a conference contender.