Providence, R.I.--Junior guard Xavier Mendez (Pawtucket, R.I.) knocked down 22 points, to go along with nine rebounds and a pair of steals, as Rhode Island College took down VTSU Castleton, 78-54, at The Murray Center on Saturday afternoon.
 
THE BASICS
Rhode Island College 78, VTSU Castleton 54
Rhode Island College (7-3, 3-0 LEC)
VTSU Castleton (3-7, 0-3 LEC)
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
• The Spartans took control of the first five minutes and led, 11-5, after forcing a turnover and converting a layup down the other end.
 
• However, the Anchormen got to work as sophomore guard Jalen Claude (New Haven, Conn.) posted 11 points in the first half, with three triples, to give the hosts the, 44-30, lead at halftime.
 
• The visitors opened the second half on an 18-10 run, but it was freshman guard Noe Bom (Hamburg, Germany) who found a rhythm as he posted seven of his 13 points in the second half to keep the Anchormen comfortably in the lad.
 
• The Anchormen gave up just four points in the final 10 minutes of the game to seal their fifth consecutive win and third conference victory.

• Senior forward Tyriek Weeks (Warwick, R.I.) pitched in with 13 points, eight rebounds and two blocks.
 
WHAT'S NEXT
In upcoming action, Rhode Island College will play at Connecticut College Friday, Dec. 19 (3 p.m.).