MIAMI – James Washington scored 22 points to lead Middle Tennessee past Florida International 79-70 on Saturday night.
The Blue Raiders (10-12, 5-4 Sun Belt Conference) took the lead for good with a 10-1 run late in the second half. J.T. Sulton's hook shot with 3:15 remaining gave Middle Tennessee a 70-65 lead. Sulton finished with 11 points.
Marvin Roberts' 3-pointer with 2:42 remaining cut Middle Tennessee's lead to 70-68. The Panthers (8-13, 3-6) had a chance to tie it but DeJuan Wright missed two free throws with 1:46 left.
Washington's five free throws and baskets from Sulton and Jason Jones in the final 1:29 secured the victory for the Blue Raiders.
Middle Tennessee's Trevor Ottley had his first career double-double with 10 points and 12 points. He also blocked three shots.
Roberts scored 17 points to lead Florida International, which has lost six straight.
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