CARROLLTON, Ga. — North Alabama opened up a big first-half lead and held off a late run by Morehouse to claim an 85-70 victory Friday in the GSC/SIAC Challenge.

The Lions (2-0) used some hot shooting in the first half to build a 20-point lead before settling for a 44-27 halftime advantage.

UNA extended its lead to 24 points early in the second half. Morehouse came back to pull within five at one point. The Lions, however, were able to put the game away at the free-throw line.

“We played really well in the first half,” coach Bobby Champagne said. “Everybody who came in the game contributed and helped us get a good lead.

“We let them back in it in the second half, but then we shot our free throws well and pulled away. We had a lot of guys play well.”

Champagne said he was much more pleased with his team’s play than in Monday night’s season-opening victory over Fisk.

“We took much better shots tonight,” he said. “We did a nice job attacking their press and took open shots instead of settling for 3-pointers.

“Rashaun Claiborne and Marquel Darrington really played well tonight. DeAndre (Hersey) and Bruce (Adams) also did a nice job. It was a good win for us.”

UNA had five players in double figures, led by Bruce Adams with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Rashaun Claiborne added 20 points and DeAndre Hersey had 14 points and 10 rebounds. Lonnie Smith chipped in with 11 points, while Marquel Darrington finished with 10 points and nine assists.

UNA will conclude play in the tournament today when the Lions face Miles College at 2 p.m.

Women face Falcons

The North Alabama women’s team returns to action today as the Lions (3-1) host Montevallo. Tip-off is at 1 p.m. at Flowers Hall.

Meanwhile, UNA’s scheduled road at Stillman on Monday has been moved to Flowers Hall.

Renovations to Stillman’s Birthright Gym will not be completed by gametime, forcing the change in location. Tip-off time has been changed to 6 p.m.