The Kent State men's basketball team controlled the first half in its opener against the No. 3 team in the Big East Friday, but Xavier wore them down and pulled away for a 73-59 victory.
Behind great defense and a strong start by newcomer Sincere Carry, the Flashes led the entire first half.
Xavier took its first lead five minutes into the second half, and the teams played evenly for the next four minutes.
After Kent State regained the lead at 50-49 with 11:03 left in the game, the Musketeers outscored the Flashes 19-4.