ATLANTA (Interstat) — Makhai Valentine scored 23 points as Northern Illinois held off Georgia State 75-74 on Saturday at GSU Sports Arena.

The Huskies led 35-37 at halftime and maintained a narrow edge throughout the second half. Northern Illinois sealed the win despite being outscored 32-24 in the paint and committing 12 turnovers. The Huskies’ offense was efficient, shooting 44.4% from the field and 47.8% from three-point range. Valentine’s scoring, complemented by 13 points from Dylan Ducommun, provided the necessary edge.

Georgia State’s Christian Beam recorded a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds. The Panthers struggled from deep, making only 4 of 20 three-point attempts. A late push fell short as Northern Illinois improved to 8-14. Georgia State dropped to 9-16. Attendance was 1,589.