ASHEVILLE, N.C. (Interstat) — UNC Asheville built a large first-half lead and cruised to a 69-50 men’s basketball victory over Gardner-Webb on Thursday night at Kimmel Arena.

The Bulldogs led 41-27 at halftime and maintained a double-digit advantage throughout the second half before a crowd of 1,016. Justin Wright and DJ Patrick each scored 16 points to lead UNC Asheville. Patrick added a team-high six assists.

Spence Sims scored 13 points for the Runnin’ Bulldogs, who shot poorly from the field. UNC Asheville improved to 10-12 overall, while Gardner-Webb fell to 3-20.