CHARLESTON, Ill. (Interstat) — Southern Indiana survived a furious second-half rally by Eastern Illinois to secure a 70-68 men’s basketball victory Saturday at Lantz Arena.

The Screaming Eagles built a 16-point halftime lead, but the Panthers stormed back after intermission. Zion Fruster scored 28 points for Eastern Illinois, and Meechie White added 17 points and six assists. Southern Indiana was led by Amaree Brown’s 22 points and a dominant defensive effort from Ola Ajiboye, who had 13 points, nine rebounds and five blocks.

The Screaming Eagles sealed the win at the free-throw line, making 19 of 23 attempts, and hit nine 3-pointers. Southern Indiana improved to 7-20 overall. Eastern Illinois fell to 11-18. Attendance was 1,836.