Jackson State beats Alabama State 68-61 in SWAC opener

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) Chace Franklin scored 21 points, including a late 3-pointer, to help Jackson State beat Alabama State 68-61 in a Southwestern Athletic Conference opener on Saturday night.

Jackson State (6-8) led nearly the entire second half but struggled throughout to get separation from the Hornets (5-8).

Paris Collins grabbed an offensive rebound with 50 seconds left and a three-point lead for the Tigers. Jackson State worked the renewed shot clock down to its final seconds and Franklin nailed a 3 with 22 seconds left to make it 67-61. Collins quickly stole an Alabama State pass and made 1 of 2 free throws to cap the scoring.

Raeford Worsham added 18 points and Collins grabbed 12 boards for the Tigers.

Bobby Brown scored all 18 of his points in the second half for the Hornets. His fourth 3-pointer pulled Alabama State within 64-61 with 1:20 left.