BANGOR, Maine – Graduate student Justice Kendall scored 21 points as the Husson University men's basketball team earned a 75-60 win over New England College on Friday evening at Newman Gymnasium.

The Eagles (3-5) were unable to pull away from the Pilgrims (2-8) for the 15 minutes of the first half, as they led just 27-22, but finally gained some leverage as they ended the half on a 15-2 run to take a 42-24 lead into the locker room.

Kendall sparked the run as he scored all seven of his first half points during the stretch, while four other Husson players scored during the frame.

Kendall and freshman DJ Woods paced the Eagles in the first half with seven points each, while junior Scott Lewis and senior Derek Collin each scored six. Lewis also recorded two blocks and ripped down five rebounds in the half.

Husson held the edge on the glass after the first 20 minutes, as they outrebounded NEC 22-15, including 8-3 on the offensive glass. The Eagles also shot nearly 43% in the first half, compared to just 31% for the Pilgrims.

NEC attempted to mount a comeback in the second half, but failed to get closer than nine as Husson salted away the victory.

Kendall's 21 led the Eagles on the night, as Husson trailed for just 54 seconds during the game. Lewis also scored in double-figures as he poured in 12 in addition to grabbing six rebounds and swatting away a career-high seven shots.

Points in the paint played a huge role in the Eagle's victory as they outscored the Pilgrims 38-24 in the bucket.

Prior to the start of the game, Husson recognized the 2021-22 North Atlantic Conference Champion men's basketball team and presented them with their championship rings.

Men's basketball returns to action on Sunday as they will host Bowdoin College in a non-conference contest. Tip-off for the game is set for 2 p.m.