MONTGOMERY, Ala. -- Jamel Waters scored 13 of his 15 points in the second half as Alabama State, despite shooting just 39 percent, defeated Western Illinois 59-52 on Monday night.

The Hornets (4-3) were playing just their second game since Nov. 18 and hit only 19 of 48 field goals, and 17 of 28 free throws -- including 6 of 11 in the final 1:33 to preserve the win.

Adam Link scored a game-high 16 for the Leathernecks (4-5), who had come in riding a three-game win streak and were holding opponents to 38-percent shooting. This time, they also shot only 39 percent, making 22 of 56 from the field. Jordan Foster added 11 points for Western Illinois.

The Hornets were trailing until Waters scored about five minutes into the second half, forcing a 28-28 tie, and Maurice Strong (nine points, nine rebounds) hit a free throw for a lead they wouldn't relinquish.