RICHMOND, Ky. (Interstat) — Eastern Kentucky used a strong second half to defeat North Alabama 88-80 in an ASUN Conference men’s basketball game Thursday night at McBrayer Arena.

The teams were tied at 42 at halftime, but the Colonels outscored the Lions 46-38 after the break. Eastern Kentucky’s efficiency at the free-throw line proved critical, making 19 of 23 attempts while North Alabama hit just 14 of 25.

Canin Jefferson led all scorers with 24 points for North Alabama. Turner Buttry paced Eastern Kentucky with 19 points. The Colonels improved to 5-11 overall, while the Lions fell to 5-9. Attendance was 791.