Brantley leads Charleston to 66-55 win over Rhode Island

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) Jarrell Brantley had 17 points to lead Charleston to its 18th straight home court win, beating Rhode Island, 66-55 on Tuesday night.

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) Jarrell Brantley had 17 points to lead Charleston to its 18th straight home court win, beating Rhode Island, 66-55 on Tuesday night.

Charleston avenged a 68-62 loss at Rhode Island last year for the Cougars first-ever win over the Rams.

Four Cougars scored in double figures as Grant Riller had 14 points while dishing out six assists, Brevin Galloway added 11 points and Zep Jasper chipped in 10.

Charleston (3-0) ran out to a 31-19 halftime advantage as Brantley scored in double figures for the third straight time while recording eight boards. Rhode Island mounted a comeback in the second half, closing to 54-49 after Ryan Preston tipped it in with 6:58 remaining in the game. Brantley answered with a layup and split a pair of free throws. Riller and Galloway made five free throws in the final 71 seconds to secure Charleston's 18th straight home victory.

Cyril Langevine led Rhode Island (1-1) with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Jeff Dowtin added 16 points with four assists.

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