NASHVILLE -
Kashawn Charles and
Sammy Friday IV both scored in double figures on Thursday night for the Eastern Illinois but the Panthers could not overcome a hot shooting second half by Belmont during an 81-57 loss at the Curb Event Center.
Charles scored 15 points while Friday finished with 13 including going 6-for-6 from the field. Â
Belmont shot 59 percent from the field including 76 percent in the second half as both teams finished the game on a hot streak. EIU hit its final four shots of the game including a bucket by
Will Shumpert. Belmont hit its final seven shots of the contest.
Nick Muszynski scored 20 points to lead Belmont. Will Sheppard had 16.
EIU returns to action on Saturday at 3 p.m. at Tennessessee State. The Panthers fell to 5-22 on the season, 3-11 in the OVC. Belmont moved to 23-5 overall, 13-2 in the OVC.