NEWARK, N.J. (Interstat) — Connecticut built a large early lead and withstood a furious second-half rally to defeat Seton Hall 69-64 in a Big East men’s basketball game Tuesday night at Prudential Center.

The Huskies led 35-22 at halftime, but the Pirates stormed back with a 42-point second half, closing the gap to a single possession late. Connecticut sealed the win at the free-throw line in the final minute. Tarris Reed Jr. led all scorers with 21 points for the Huskies, who improved to 17-1. Mike Williams scored 16 points for Seton Hall, which fell to 14-3. Both teams struggled from three-point range, combining to shoot 4 for 33.