TYLER, Texas - The St. Edward's men's basketball team defeated UT Tyler 81-60 while shooting over 48 percent from the field and over 40 percent from three-point range. 

SEU came out hot on both ends of the court putting up 52 points in the first half, while holding UT Tyler to 28 points. The Hilltoppers shot over 59 percent from the field and 50 percent from three-point range in the half. 

While the offense did their thing, the defense for the Hilltoppers held the Patriots to shooting just 28 percent from the field and just over 28 percent from three-point range.

Heading into halftime, the Hilltoppers were up 52-28 following their solid first-half performance.

In the second half, the Hilltoppers kept their distance from the Patriots and knocked down key shots to keep the deficit in double-digits. 

The Hilltoppers were led by Uche Dibiamaka, who posted 27 points on 10-17 shooting from the field and 5-9 from three-point range. Daniel Venzant added 18, Luke Pluymen, had 12 off the bench.

The win puts the Hilltoppers at 15-11 overall and 9-7 in Lone Star Conference play. 

SEU is back on the road Thursday as they visit their rival, St. Mary's. Tip-off is set for 7:30 pm.