MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (AP) — Kerry Hammonds II pumped in a season-high 26 points, including six 3-pointers, to propel Middle Tennessee to an 81-64 win over Southern Miss on Saturday and keep the Blue Raiders atop the Conference USA standings.
Middle Tennessee (19-7, 9-2) shot 54 percent from the field, including 11 of 21 from long range, and never trailed in the game.
Neiko Hunter contributed 20 points and seven rebounds, while Tweety Knight dished out eight assists for the Blue Raiders, who have won seven straight. Hammonds hit 8 of 13 from the field and sank all four of his shots from the free throw line.
Southern Miss (21-5, 8-3) outscored the Blue Raiders 35-34 in the second half but couldn't erase their 49-27 halftime deficit.
Neil Watson led the Golden Eagles with 17 points, Michael Craig added 11 and Jeremiah Eason had 10.