TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (Interstat) — The Tallahassee State Eagles defeated the Hillsborough Hawks 77-61 in a men’s junior college basketball game Friday night.

The Eagles built a commanding 44-21 lead in the first quarter and maintained control throughout. The Hawks outscored Tallahassee State 40-33 after halftime but could not overcome the early deficit.

With the victory, Tallahassee State improved its season record to 8-1. Hillsborough fell to 2-3. Rodmik Allen, Cedric Taylor and Cinque Lemon were key performers for the Eagles. Chandler Davis led the effort for the Hawks.

Tallahassee State next plays Sunday at home against Indian River State. Hillsborough travels to face Miami Dade on Jan. 3.