Middle Tennessee downs Belmont 79-66 behind Upshaw's 21 Pts (Dec 14, 2016)

By AP
Published

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) Reggie Upshaw had 21 points and six rebounds and JaCorey Williams had 18 points and 11 boards and Middle Tennessee won its eighth straight, beating Belmont 79-66 on Wednesday night.

Evan Bradds' layup and a 3 from Nick Smith with 10:59 to play gave Belmont a 53-49 lead. Antwain Johnson hit a 3 for the Blue Raiders and Williams' jumper with 9:19 remaining gave Middle Tennessee (10-1) a 57-56 lead it wouldn't surrender.

Bradds' layup with 1:55 to go brought Belmont (4-4) to within 69-66, but the Blue Raiders got back-to-back 3s from Tyrik Dixon and Giddy Potts to start a 10-0 run to end the game.

Bradds led Belmont with 21 points and 16 rebounds and Taylor Barnette added 14 for the Bruins.

Middle Tennessee leads the all-time series 22-15. The Blue Raiders have now won two straight against Belmont after suffering three straight defeats.