UNCASVILLE, Conn. – With Maine leading South Alabama 22-21 with 6:25 left in the first half, the Jaguars put together a 15-4 run for a 36-26 halftime lead, en route to a 68-46 win at Mohegan Sun Arena on Saturday night. The Black Bears will play Sacred Heart tomorrow afternoon in the consolation game of the Springfield Bracket at 12:30 p.m.
 
Aaron Calixte finished with 13 points on 6-13 shooting from the field, while Trae Bryant also tallied double-figures with an even 10 points. Andrew Fleming and Ilker Er each added seven points. Danny Evans brought down a career-high nine rebounds and only turned the ball over once in 25 minutes played.
 
Both squads battled it out in the first half, trading baskets with neither team taking a significant edge of more than five points until there was less than two left in the first half. The game featured eight lead changes and four ties, with the Black Bears leading for 6 minutes and 18 seconds in the opening half. Calixte registered nine of his 13 points in the opening 20 minutes to pace Maine.
 
The Jaguars put together the late run in the first half, and extended their lead after the intermission. South Alabama was led by the duo of Josh Ajayi and Rodrick Sykes, who combined for 33 of the Jags 68 points.
 
After Maine takes on Sacred Hear tomorrow, the Black Bears will face Boston University on Wednesday, Nov. 22 in Maine's home opener. The Thanksgiving-eve matinee against the Terriers is set for 2:00 p.m. at the Cross Insurance Center in Bangor.
 
-UMaine-