Pikeville, K.y -  Host University of Pikeville used a strong first half to post an 88-77 victory over visiting UVa-Wise in Mid-South Conference men's basketball action on Tuesday. 

In the win, Chris Johnson led the Bears with 23 points while Terrance Saintil, 17, Trevor Setty, 15, Darnell Tubbs, 11, and Hobo McCoy, ten also finished in double figures.   As a team, UPike shot 52 percent from the field while making 17 of 19 free throw attempts.  

The Cavaliers were led by Javon Moore who scored 23 points, grabbed eight rebounds, and handed out four assists.   Charles George had the strongest game of his young career with 15 points and five assists while Matt Day added 13 points. 

The victory improves UPike to 9-1 overall and 2-1 and 2-1 in league play.  UVa-Wise drops to 3-4 and 0-3 in Mid-South play.  UVa-Wise will return to action on Friday when the team travels to Southern Indiana for an 8:00 p.m. tip.