Final
  for this game

Niagara builds lead, defeats Loyola 86-77

Jan 31, 2010 - 11:00 PM BALTIMORE(AP) -- Demetrius Williamson scored 20 points to lead Niagara to an 86-77 victory over Loyola (Md.) on Sunday.

Bilal Benn added 17 points and nine rebounds for the Purple Eagles (12-12, 5-7 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference), who hit their final five free throw attempts after Loyola (10-12, 3-9) cut the lead to 81-75 on Brian Rudolph's two free throws with 34 seconds left.

Williamson hit one of two attempts and Tyrone Lewis and Benn added two each in the final 30 seconds.

For the game, Niagara was 31-for-42 from the line (73.8 percent), with Benn going 8-for-10.

Niagara shot 53.8 percent from the field (14-for-26) in the first half to take a 41-28 halftime advantage. The Purple Eagles led 80-71 with 1:06 left.

Anthony Nelson added 15 points and Rob Garrison scored 10 for Niagara.

Brett Harvey scored 18, Brian Rudolph added 15 and J'hared Hall scored 14 for Loyola.