Hearn leads way as Northwestern beats Fairleigh Dickinson 80-53

EVANSTON, Ill. – Reggie Hearn scored 14 points and Northwestern's defense did the rest Sunday in an 80-53 victory over Fairleigh Dickinson.

Fairleigh Dickinson's inability to convert in the paint prevented them from staying in the game early. The Knights missed six layups in the first half alone, which allowed Northwestern (3-0) to quickly take command in the first meeting between the schools.

For the second time in three games, Northwestern held its opponent to 14 points in the first half, a feat it previously had not accomplished since December 2008. The Wildcats led by as many as 36 points.

Eleven different players scored for the Wildcats, who shot 49 percent from the field. Northwestern's big men dominated Fairleigh Dickinson (0-2) in the post, outscoring them 36-16 in the paint.