NEWTON, Mass. (Interstat) — North Carolina State built a first-half lead and held off Boston College for a 79-71 men’s basketball victory Tuesday night at Silvio O. Conte Forum.

The Wolfpack led 40-32 at halftime and maintained a steady advantage throughout the second half. Fred Payne led all scorers with 24 points for Boston College. Darrion Williams paced North Carolina State with 22 points.

The win improved North Carolina State to 11-5 overall. Boston College fell to 7-8. Attendance was 1,892.