GREENVILLE, N.C. (Interstat) — Appalachian State built a commanding first-half lead and held off a late East Carolina rally for a 67-54 men’s basketball victory Thursday night at Williams Arena.

The Mountaineers led 33-17 at halftime before the Pirates outscored them 37-34 after intermission. Kasen Jennings led Appalachian State with 20 points. Jordan Riley scored a game-high 26 points for East Carolina.

Appalachian State shot 47.4% from the floor and scored 40 points in the paint. East Carolina shot just 35.5% and was hampered by 4-of-20 shooting from 3-point range. The Pirates did force 13 turnovers, converting them into 24 points.

Appalachian State improved to 6-5. East Carolina fell to 3-7.