INDIANAPOLIS (Interstat) — Butler survived a second-half surge from Xavier to secure an 80-75 victory in a Big East Conference men’s basketball game Saturday at Hinkle Fieldhouse.

The Bulldogs built a 47-28 halftime lead behind strong inside play but had to withstand a determined comeback attempt. The Musketeers outscored Butler 47-33 after intermission, closing the gap to a single possession late before Butler sealed the win at the free-throw line.

Tre Carroll led Xavier with 24 points. For Butler, Michael Ajayi scored 24 points and Yohan Traore added 21. Butler’s efficiency at the line, making 25 of 33 free throws, proved decisive. Xavier shot just 10 for 32 from three-point range.

Butler improved to 15-13 overall. Xavier fell to 13-14. Attendance was 9,100.