NEW BRITAIN, Conn. (Interstat) — Darin Smith scored 22 points to lead Central Connecticut to a 69-64 men’s basketball victory over Saint Francis (PA) on Saturday at William H. Detrick Gymnasium.

The Blue Devils (18-11, 10-6 Northeast Conference) held a narrow 32-29 halftime lead and maintained a slight advantage throughout the second half. The Red Flash (7-24, 5-11) closed within one possession multiple times but could not overtake the hosts.

Central Connecticut shot 50% from the field, while Saint Francis (PA) shot 43.6%. Chris Moncrief led the Red Flash with 16 points. Attendance was 1,018.