LOUISVILLE, Ky.—Justin Benedetti scored a game-high 24 points as the Bellarmine University men's basketball team outscored the Missouri University of Science & Technology by 18 in the second stanza to win 81-65 on Thursday night at Knights Hall.

The Knights (15-7, 8-5 GLVC), coming out of the halftime break in a 34-32 deficit, exploded for 19 points in the first media segment of the second half.  Benedetti connected on two consecutive three-pointers, before Missouri S&T called a timeout.  Braydon Hobbs stole the ball on the ensuing possession and passed it to Benedetti for yet another triple.

“At halftime, we talked about how we were going to have each other's backs, especially offensively,” Bellarmine Head Coach Scott Davenport said.  “You have to give them credit.  They all found (Benedetti) whenever he was open.”

Benedetti was one of three double-digit scorers for the victorious Knights.  Luke Sprague posted 16, while Jeremy Kendle added 12, including 10 in the second half.

Bellarmine dominated the glass throughout the game, outrebounding the Miners 38-24.  The Knights also dished out 21 assists on 29 made field goals.

“The key stat for us tonight was getting 15 assists on 18 made baskets in the second half,” Davenport said.

The Miners (7-14, 3-10 GLVC) were led by Bryce Forster's 18 points and eight rebounds.  Adam Knollmeyer, A.J. Mandani, and Byron Bundy all scored 11 or more, while Mike Malat had a team-high four assists.

Bellarmine returns to the court on Saturday afternoon with a game against conference newcomer Maryville University.  Tipoff is scheduled for 3:15 p.m. at Knights Hall.