HAMMOND, La. -- Julian Chiera and Devonte Upson combined for 25 points as Southeastern Louisiana got hot in the second half to take a 62-53 victory over McNeese State Thursday night.

The game was tied at 25 at the half. The Lions (10-13, 5-7 Southland) made 13 of 23 field goal attempts in the second half while limiting McNeese State to 9-of-25 shooting in that period.

Chiera had 13 points and Upson added 12.

McNeese State (7-17, 5-7) took an early lead in the second half and held a 46-41 advantage with 8:53 remaining. Jeffery Ricard hit a 3-pointer and Onochie Ochie followed with a 3-point jumper to tie the score at 46. The Lions held a slim 50-49 advantage with 5:08 left when Ricard hit another 3-pointer and a free throw and Chiera followed with a jumper for a 56-49 lead with 1:59 left.

Ledrick Eackles led the Cowboys with 15 points.