NIAGARA UNIV., N.Y.  – The Niagara Purple Eagles used a balanced scoring attack to defeat the Marist Red Foxes, 80-74, on Friday night at the Gallagher Center.

A couple of Purple Eagles (6-15, 3-7 MAAC) continued their strong play against the Red Foxes (6-13, 3-6 MAAC). Antoine Mason led NU in scoring with 22 points to average 21 points in four career meetings. Marvin Jordan, who set his career-high against Marist as a freshman with 27 points, added 18 points on 7-for-10 shooting from the field and connected on 4 of 6 triples.

Marcus Ware contributed with 12 points, including going a career-best 10-for-13 at the charity stripe. Joe Thomas, Rayvon Harris, Wesley Myers and Ramone Snowden each scored seven points while Snowden grabbed a team-high six boards.

In a game which had 14 lead changes, Niagara made timely baskets as it pulled away in the final minutes of the game. With the scored tied at 34-34 entering the second half, the Purple Eagles led 47-40 with 14:31 before the Red Foxes crept back in front to lead 54-53 with 8:42 remaining. The score was tied at 56-56 with 7:36 remaining when Ware broke the deadlock with a free throw and Mason followed with a 3-pointer on Niagara's next possession to create separation. Niagara's lead would increase to 77-67, the largest lead of the game, with a minute left.

"I thought it was a very good second half by us," head coach Chris Casey said. "We were more aggressive attacking the basket in the second half and made some free throws. We had a lead and they fought back to their credit, but we stayed tough and extended the lead back and we had enough of a cushion at the end to win the game."

The Purple Eagles continued their recent dominance in the series, especially at home. NU improved to 9-3 in the last 12 meetings, including winning seven straight at home.

Niagara is back on the road to face the Siena Saints on Thursday, Jan. 30 at 8:30 p.m. The game will air live on ESPN3, ESPN1520 AM and Purple Eagles All-Access.