Raiders Close Non-Conference Home Slate with Win

NICEVILLE, Fla. – Michael Jefferson knocked down five 3-pointers and Deshawndre Washington fell just shy of a triple-double as No. 4 Northwest Florida State defeated Coastal Alabama – South, 77-70, on Thursday in Raider Arena.

Jefferson finished with a game-high 20 points on a 7-for-12 effort from the field, including five 3-pointers to lead the Raiders (14-1) to their 14^th victory of the season.

Washington was one assist shy of a triple-double turning in 11 points, 14 rebounds and nine helpers. Issa Muhammad posted his third double-double of the year and second in three games with 14 points and 12 boards.

Northwest Florida State shot nearly 50 percent from the field in the first half and built a 26-point advantage at the 7:26 mark in the second half before Coastal Alabama – South was able to trim the lead late.

The Raiders again dominated the inside game outscoring the Sun Chiefs 44-20 in the paint and won the rebounding battle 43-26.

NWF will take a break for the holidays before returning to action on Dec. 30-31 in Panama City when the team squares off against East Georgia State and Georgia Highlands.

For more information on Northwest Florida State athletics, visit NWFRaiders.com or follow @NWFRaiders on Twitter.