CORVALLIS, Ore. (Interstat) — Oregon State used a strong first half to secure an 81-70 win over Southern Utah in a nonconference men’s basketball game Saturday at Gill Coliseum.

The Beavers built a 45-30 halftime lead and held off the Thunderbirds in the second half before a crowd of 2,364. The victory evened Oregon State’s record at 5-5, while Southern Utah fell to 4-7.

Oregon State was a heavy pregame favorite and the combined score stayed under the projected total. Southern Utah’s next game is Dec. 13 at Washington. Oregon State hosts Montana State the same day.