FLORENCE – The North Alabama men's basketball team shot nearly 60 percent from the floor in the second half to maintain its half-time lead over West Georgia and open Gulf South Conference play with an 84-70 over the Wolves Saturday evening at Flowers Hall. The Lions were 16-of-27 over the final 20 minutes to extend a 41-35 advantage to a 12-point victory.

With the win, UNA improves to 8-6 on the season with a 1-0 early showing in the GSC.  West Georgia falls to 7-8, 0-1 with the loss.

Jared Strode led all scorers with 24 points for the Lions. The senior from Winchester, Kent., was 9-of-13 from the floor and added six free throws. He scored 15 points in the second half as UNA pulled away.

Rory Miller helped North Alabama build an early lead with two three-point baskets and 13 first-half points. He finished with 20 on the night. Daviel Clements rounded out the top scorers for the Lions with 16 points.

West Georgia was led by Deion Sims’ 21-point effort.

North Alabama will host Valdosta State on Sunday in a rescheduled GSC contest from earlier in the week. Tip-off is set for 3 p.m. at Flowers Hall.