MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) Demetrius Houston and Torloft Thomas each converted two clutch free throws in the final two minutes as Alabama State held on to beat Division II Fort Valley State, 75-68 Thursday in the Hornets final tune-up before opening Southwestern Conference play Monday.

J.R. Bryant knocked down a 3-pointer with 3:51 left to give Fort Valley State a 66-65 lead, but Houston put Alabama State in front for good with a jumper with 3:20 left as Alabama State won for just the second time in a dozen starts.

Tony Armstrong scored 16 points on 6 of 7 shooting from the field and Houston was a perfect 6-for-6 from the field to add 15. Rodney Simeon added 11 points for Alabama State (2-10).

Alabama State opens Southwestern Conference play Monday when the Hornets play host to Grambling State.

James Barnes scored 14 points to lead Fort Valley State.

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