WEST HAVEN, Conn. (Interstat) — Chicago State built a large first-half lead and withstood a fierce New Haven comeback to earn a 63-57 men’s basketball victory Saturday at Charger Gymnasium.

The Cougars led 32-22 at halftime and by as many as 15 points before the Chargers’ second-half surge. New Haven cut the deficit to two points late, but Chicago State secured the win at the free-throw line. Marcus Tankersley led the Cougars with 19 points. Jabri Fitzpatrick paced New Haven with 14 points and nine rebounds.

The win improved Chicago State to 4-20. New Haven fell to 10-14. An announced crowd of 590 attended the Northeast Conference game.