GRANITEVILLE, S.C. – Elías Pálsson erupted for a career-high 38 points on 15-of-18 shooting, including 5-for-6 from three, to lead Augusta University past rival USC Aiken, 80-74, Saturday afternoon at The Convocation Center.

Augusta improved to 10-17 overall and 5-12 in the Peach Belt Conference, while USC Aiken moved to 11-13 overall and 6-10 in league play.

The Jaguars set the tone early and led 28-22 at halftime, holding USC Aiken to 5-of-35 shooting in the opening 20 minutes while building an edge off transition chances and second-chance opportunities. Pálsson scored from all three levels in the first half, and Augusta's defense forced tough looks and limited clean catches on the perimeter.

USC Aiken found its rhythm after the break, but Augusta answered every push with timely baskets. The Jaguars stretched the lead to double digits early in the second half behind Pálsson's hot hand, then kept control at the line and on the glass as the Pacers tried to chip away.

Down the stretch, USC Aiken cut into the margin with a pair of threes, but Augusta responded with a late layup in transition and key free throws to close it out. The Jaguars finished with 18 fast-break points and 12 second-chance points in the win.

Daniel Daramola added nine points and five rebounds for Augusta, while Luis Nonfon chipped in six points and a team-high nine rebounds. Camryn Pacheco finished with six points, four assists and four rebounds, and Tobias Prall scored six with two threes.

USC Aiken was led by Caleb Byrd's 28 points and Jonah Lawrence's 21.

Next up, Augusta travels to Clayton State on Wednesday, Feb. 18 with tip set for 7:30 p.m. The Jaguars then return home for Homecoming/Senior Day on Saturday, Feb. 21 at 3:30 p.m.