SALEM, Va. — Averett University's second-year freshman Isaiah Jones scored a career-high 15 points, but Roanoke College pulled away in the second half for a 72-46 win over the Cougars in non-conference men's basketball action on Saturday afternoon.

Jones' 3-pointer to open the second half pulled Averett (0-6) within six of Roanoke (5-2), which is receiving votes in the latest D3hoops.com poll. Yet, the Maroons answered with a 19-4 run over the next nine minutes to extend their lead to 57-36 as Averett's offense cooled.

In the first half, Averett stayed within striking distance throughout the period. A pair of 3-pointers by junior Ian Best helped pull the Cougars within 25-22 with 7:16 remaining. Another run by Roanoke pushed the Maroons' lead to double-digits but Averett closed the gap to 38-30 at the half on a last-minute 3-pointer by Jones.

Jones, who missed almost all of last season due to injury, netted his highest point total as a Cougar, edging his previous best output of 13 points earlier this year. He also added a team-high nine rebounds, two blocks and two steals.

Junior Timothy Henry chipped in 10 points and sophomore Montre' Cash had nine points for Averett, which outrebounded Roanoke 38-31.

Roanoke was led by Josh Freund's 21 points and 11 rebounds.

Averett opens conference play on Friday at Brevard College at 7:30 p.m.