DAHLONEGA – The No. 15 University of North Georgia (UNG) men's basketball team turned a competitive first half into a commanding win Wednesday night, rolling past Georgia College & State University 86-57 in Peach Belt Conference play in Lynn Cottrell Arena at the UNG Convocation Center.

UNG (10-2, 4-2 PBC) jumped out early and built a lead behind balanced scoring, but Georgia College stayed within striking distance through the first 20 minutes. The Nighthawks led 39-30 at the break after capitalizing on timely baskets by AJ White and strong interior play from Colin Turner.

In the second half, North Georgia came out aggressive on both ends. The Nighthawks stretched the margin with a sharp defensive presence that forced miscues and limited the Bobcats' scoring opportunities. UNG's offense stayed efficient, hitting shots in transition, converting inside and getting to the foul line, while Georgia College's offense slowed in the half, managing just 27 points overall.

White paced the Nighthawks with 21 points, while Turner recorded 15 points and an 11-rebound double-double. Zack Hawkinson contributed 13 points, and a host of role players added energy and timely buckets to keep the momentum firmly with UNG.

Georgia College stayed in touch early, trading baskets and forcing turnovers, but UNG's balanced attack and depth gradually wore down the Bobcats. UNG's second-half defense limited Georgia College to just 23.5 percent shooting after intermission, and the Nighthawks pulled away behind a flurry of fast-break points and a suffocating half-court defense as the game wore on.

With the win, North Georgia moves to 10-2 overall and 4-2 in PBC play.

Khalil Green led GCSU (9-5, 4-2 PBC) with 12 points and six assists.

The Nighthawks continue the season at home with a PBC matchup against Georgia Southwestern on Jan. 10. Tipoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. in Lynn Cottrell Arena at the UNG Convocation Center.