CINCINNATI (Interstat) — Eastern Michigan built a large first-half lead and held off a late rally to defeat Cincinnati 64-56 in a men’s college basketball game Wednesday at Fifth Third Arena. The Eagles led 36-23 at halftime before the Bearcats outscored them in the second half.

Carlos Hart led Eastern Michigan with 15 points. Mohammad Habhab added 13 points for the Eagles. Day Day Thomas scored a game-high 17 points for Cincinnati in the losing effort.

Eastern Michigan improved to 4-3 overall. Cincinnati fell to 5-2.