John David Gardner scored 14 points and Wright State used strong defense to beat Murray State 57-41 on Monday.

Wright State (6-7) held the Racers (6-5) to 27.7 percent shooting from the field (13 of 47) and 0 of 15 from the 3-point line in the game.

The Raiders took an 11-2 lead to start the game, maintaining a lead no less than four points in the first half. Wright State went into halftime with a 25-18 advantage.

Cory Cooperwood's layup put the Raiders ahead 43-31 with 8:18 remaining in the game. Wright State increased its margin to 14 points almost three minutes later on two free throws by Will Graham.

Todd Brown scored 10 points and grabbed eight rebounds for the Raiders. Gardner had six assists.

Danero Thomas was the only Murray State player to score in double figures with 13 points.

Wright State shot 50 percent from the field.