HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (Interstat) — Kennesaw State defeated Western Kentucky 96-87 on Thursday in a Conference USA men’s basketball tournament game at T. M. Elmore Gymnasium.

The Owls (19-13) led 46-41 at halftime and maintained their advantage throughout the second half to secure the victory. Trey Simpson led Kennesaw State with 26 points. Teagan Moore scored a game-high 27 points for the Hilltoppers (18-14).

Kennesaw State shot efficiently from the floor to overcome Western Kentucky, which was a slight pregame favorite. The combined score of 183 points far exceeded the over/under line of 159.5. Attendance was 3,029.

The Owls advance to face Sam Houston on Friday.