GREENSBORO, N.C. (Interstat) — Mercer built a large first-half lead and withstood a fierce second-half rally to defeat UNC Greensboro 102-92 in a Southern Conference men’s basketball game Saturday at Greensboro Coliseum.

The Bears led 51-37 at halftime behind a balanced attack. The Spartans surged after the break, outscoring Mercer 55-51 in the second half, but could not overcome the early deficit.

Baraka Okojie led Mercer with 25 points. Armani Mighty added 20 points and Zaire Williams scored 17 for the Bears. KJ Younger paced UNC Greensboro with 21 points. Lilian Marville contributed 18 points for the Spartans.

Mercer improved to 12-7 overall. UNC Greensboro fell to 7-12. Attendance was 1,368.