DURHAM, N.C. (Interstat) — North Carolina Central survived a furious second-half rally by Morgan State to earn an 80-76 men’s basketball victory Monday night at McLendon-McDougald Gymnasium.

The Eagles built a commanding 51-30 halftime lead but had to withstand a 46-point second half from the Bears. Morgan State closed the gap to a single possession late before North Carolina Central secured the win at the free-throw line.

The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference matchup drew an attendance of 1,554. Both teams moved to 10-14 overall. The Eagles swept the regular-season series, having also won the previous meeting last month. The total score fell under the betting over/under line of 154.5.