COLUMBIA, S.C. – The Benedict College Tigers used a strong second half to defeat Claflin University 69-65 in a non-conference men's basketball game on Thursday night.

Benedict improves to 8-11 overall, while Claflin falls to 9-11.

Deon Joyner led the way for the Tigers with 20 points and six rebounds. Malachi McCoy added 14 points and eight rebounds, while Anthony Gomes contributed with 11 points and four rebounds.

The Tigers got off to a slow start, falling behind 13-2 with 14:32 left in the first half. Benedict closed the gap to as close as five, 22-17, off a 3-pointer from Gomes. Claflin outscored the Tigers 10-4 in the final five minutes of the half to hold a 32-21 advantage heading into the break.

Gomes started Benedict's run in the second half, scoring back-to-back buckets to kick off an 8-2 run. With eight minutes remaining in regulation, Gomes was fouled on a 3-pointer and knocked down all three free throws to even the score for the first time since the start of the game.

A 3-pointer on the next possession by DeShawn Graham gave the Tigers their first lead of the game, 51-48, with 7:45 left. After the score was tied at 61 with 2:42 remaining, a 6-0 run by Benedict allowed them to take a 67-61 advantage. After the Panthers scored back-to-back buckets, Joseph Staton iced the game, knocking down two free throws to clinch the victory.

The Tigers outscored Claflin 40-18 in the paint including 28-10 in the second half.

Benedict will travel to Savannah State on Saturday for a 3 p.m. SIAC contest.