MISSOULA, Mont. (Interstat) — Montana used a strong first half and clutch late free throws to defeat Sacramento State 81-73 in a men’s NCAA Division I basketball game Thursday night at Dahlberg Arena.

The Grizzlies built a 42-32 halftime lead behind efficient shooting, finishing the game 27 of 53 from the floor and 11 of 29 from 3-point range. The Hornets chipped away in the second half but could not overcome Montana’s early advantage. Money Williams led Montana with 20 points. Prophet Johnson scored 14 points for Sacramento State.

Montana improved to 15-14 overall. Sacramento State fell to 9-19. An announced crowd of 3,174 attended the Big Sky Conference game.