Pierce scores 25 points to pace Buffalo over Niagara 86-80 despite Lewis’ 3-point shooting

Pierce’s 25 points lead Buffalo over Niagara 86-80

LEWISTON, N.Y. — Rodney Pierce scored 25 points as Buffalo pulled away midway through the second half and held on to beat Niagara 86-80 on Wednesday night.

John Boyer and Calvin Betts added 12 points apiece for the Bulls (4-3), who shot 54.4 percent (31-for-57) to 37.7 percent (26-for-69) for the Purple Eagles (6-4). Titus Robinson grabbed 13 rebounds for Buffalo, which had a 48-34 advantage on the boards.

Tyrone Lewis scored 26 points to lead Niagara and was 6-for-13 from beyond the arc, making him the school career leader on 3-pointers with 222.

After leading 40-38 at halftime, Buffalo opened a 65-49 lead with 8:13 left. The Purple Eagles cut it to 83-80 on Lewis’ 3-pointer with 15 seconds left.

Pierce was fouled by Anthony Nelson and made both with 13 seconds left for an 85-80 lead. Lewis then missed a 3-pointer and Demetrius Williamson a putback for Niagara.