Box Score JACKSON – Senior Chris Howell converted a pair of free throws with 2:32 remaining in the second half to propel Jackson State past rival Alcorn State 59-52 Saturday evening in the Southwestern Athletic Conference home opener at the Lee E. Williams Athletic Assembly Center.
 
JSU trailed 33-20 at halftime but whittled the Alcorn lead in the second half. The Tigers outscored the Braves 24-9 in the opening 12 minutes of the second half. From there, there were a total of three lead changes and ties before Howell's go-ahead free throws.
 
In the first half, the Tigers shot 28 percent (7-of-25) and turned the ball over eight times. The Tigers were a different team in the second half and shot 46.2 percent (12-of-26) and forced the Braves into six turnovers.
 
"It was a well-fought battle back-and-forth between two teams that really wanted it," said JSU head coach Wayne Brent. "We were just telling our guys to hang in there. They came out for the second half with passion and put it on the line."
 
Junior Venjie Wallis scored a team-high 12 points and grabbed seven rebounds, while Howell added 10 points and was hit a perfect 4-of-4 at the charity stripe. Freshman Jayveous McKinnis dropped eight points and was dominate on the glass with 11 rebounds and added two blocks. Senior Jontrell Walker came off the bench and added 10 points while handing out three assists.
 
Sophomore Lemmie Howard was efficient 4-of-6 from the field for eight points.

The Blue and White will host Southern University, Monday at 7:30 p.m.