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Lawal, Georgia Tech hold off Charlotte 76-67

Jan 3, 2010 - 2:35 AM By MIKE CRANSTON AP Sports Writer

CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- Gani Lawal had 29 points and rescued Georgia Tech from a late collapse as the Yellow Jackets overcame 31 points from Derrio Green in a 76-67 victory over Charlotte on Saturday night.

After squandering a 15-point second-half lead, Lawal hit several key free throws and had a big block in the final minute and Georgia Tech (11-2) recovered to win its third straight to move within one victory of last season's total.

Green hit seven 3-pointers in his career-best night for the 49ers (10-3), who trailed by 12 with 8 minutes left before a 17-4 run put them ahead 66-65 with 2:38 left.

But D'Andre Bell answered with a 3-pointer and Lawal hit two free throws. Up 70-66, Lawal rejected Chris Braswell in the lane and later put it away at the line.

Lawal hit 17 of 20 free throws and added 10 rebounds. Iman Shumpert added nine points in his first game back from knee surgery.