ATHENS, Ga. (Interstat) — The Florida Gators used a dominant first half to secure an 86-66 victory over the Georgia Bulldogs in a Southeastern Conference men’s basketball game Wednesday night at Stegeman Coliseum.

Florida built a 43-27 halftime lead behind efficient shooting and never let Georgia within striking distance in the second half before a crowd of 10,034. Xaivian Lee led the Gators with 18 points and seven assists. Boogie Fland added 15 points and Alex Condon scored 12.

Georgia’s Blue Cain scored a game-high 17 points, and Marcus Millender contributed 15 points and five assists. The Bulldogs struggled offensively, shooting just 34.7% from the field. Florida improved to 18-6 overall, while Georgia fell to 17-7. The Gators have won both meetings between the teams this season.