GAINESVILLE, Fla. (Interstat) — Auburn built a large first-half lead and withstood a second-half push to defeat Florida 76-67 in a Southeastern Conference men’s basketball game Saturday at O’Connell Center.

The Tigers, led by Keyshawn Hall’s 24 points, took a 15-point halftime advantage after shooting 48.1% from the field in the opening period. The Gators chipped away after halftime, cutting the deficit to single digits behind Thomas Haugh’s game-high 27 points, but could not complete the comeback.

Auburn’s efficiency proved decisive, as it shot 48.1% overall and made 19 of 21 free throws. Florida struggled from the floor, shooting 37.3%, and made just 7 of 27 three-point attempts. The win improved Auburn to 13-7, while Florida fell to 14-6.