MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (Interstat) — Western Kentucky built a large first-half lead and withstood a fierce Middle Tennessee comeback to secure a 65-60 men’s basketball victory Saturday at Murphy Athletics Center.

The Hilltoppers led 30-23 at halftime and by as many as 17 points before the Blue Raiders charged back, closing within three points late. Kamari Lands led all scorers with 25 points for Middle Tennessee. Western Kentucky’s Blaise Keita anchored the win with 14 rebounds and seven points. Kade Unseld added 17 points for the Hilltoppers.

Attendance was 4,127. Western Kentucky improved to 12-10. Middle Tennessee fell to 11-10.