Hofstra free throws overcome UMBC

HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. -- Hofstra, down most of the first half, converted 18 of 21 second-half foul shots and turned back UMBC, 91-80, in an East Coast Conference game at the Physical Fitness Center last night.

UMBC (7-15, 5-2) led by as many as seven in the first half, which ended with Hofstra ahead 41-38. In the second half, Hofstra (9-13, 4-4) used a 10-4 spurt to build a 10-point cushion and the Retrievers did not get within eight in the final nine minutes.

Demetrius Dudley had 28 points, including 14 of 16 at the foul line, to lead the Flying Dutchmen. UMBC, which fell out of a first-place ECC tie with Towson State, was led by Brian Watkins, who scored 19 points.