Saint Mary heated up in the second half to defeat UNO 96-86 Sunday night at Ralston Arena.

The Mavericks held a 49-38 lead at halftime before the Spires went on a 12-0 run to open the second half. Back-to-back baskets by John Karhoff and CJ Carter helped Omaha regain the lead at 53-50, but consecutive threes from Matt Heydman and Shiron Williams put USM ahead 56-53 and spurred another run.

USM shot 59 percent from the floor in the second half, including 73 percent from long range.

Karhoff paced Omaha (1-1) with 18 points, four rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Guard Alex Phillips had 16 points, three boards, three assists and a steal. Forward Koang Doluony chipped in 11 points, five rebounds and a pair of steals.

Saint Mary (2-3) was led by Jordan Wilcox with 20, Williams with 18, Jeb Greenberg 15 and Heydman added 13. Wilcox hit five three-point shots.