BOONE, N.C. (Interstat) — Appalachian State used a dominant first half to secure an 80-65 men’s basketball victory over James Madison on Thursday night at Holmes Center. The Mountaineers built a 38-27 halftime lead and maintained control throughout before an announced crowd of 2,177.

Alonzo Dodd and Kasen Jennings each scored 23 points to pace Appalachian State (11-8, 2-3 Sun Belt). Cliff Davis led the Dukes (9-9, 2-3) with 15 points. The Mountaineers opened the game on a 12-0 run and never trailed, shooting 50% from the field to James Madison’s 38%. The teams will meet again on Feb. 14 in Harrisonburg.