CLEVELAND - The Delta State University men's basketball team took the lead with 10:17 left in the second half, and were able to stay on top to claim a 66-54 win over eighth-ranked Christian Brothers Saturday night at Walter Sillers Coliseum. 

The win extends the Statesmen's conference winning streak to seven games, as they improve to 18-5 on the season and tie CBU for the GSC West Division lead at 8-2. Christian Brothers drop to 19-4 and 8-2 in conference action. 

The first five minutes of the ball game proved to be the start of an extremely physical contest. 

Delta State shot 42 percent in the first half, their only lead in the half coming at the 19 minute mark. The Statesmen were 3-of-10 from distance, but a perfect 3-of-3 from the line. 

Christian Brothers shot 50 percent from the floor, but struggled from the outside, shooting 2-of-10. The visitors outscored the Statesmen inside the paint 18-10 and held on to a slim lead at the break, 30-28. 

Alton Robinson had nine points at the break to lead the Statesmen. 

The second half was almost a replay of the first in terms of emotions on the court and in the stands. 

Delta State came out hot and managed to shoot 43 percent for the game, but were just 5-of-16 from distance. 

The Buccaneers were held to just 31 percent (9-of-29) in the second half, thanks in part to the Statesmen defense, who held them scoreless since taking the lead for 9:06. In that span, Delta State went on an 11-0 run and extended their lead to 13 points. 

The Statesmen had three players finish in double figures, led by Robinson with 20 points and nine boards. Chad Akins and Joe McCray finished with 16 and 15 points respectively. 

Christian Brothers was led by Nick Kohs, who had a game-high 25 points. 

The Statesmen will be in action again this Thursday, Feb. 19 against Southern Arkansas at Walter Sillers Coliseum. Tip-off is set for 8 p.m.