NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Clide Geffrard scored 21 points with nine rebounds -- both career highs -- to lead Stephen F. Austin to a 79-71 win over Western Michigan on Thursday night in the opening round of the Challenge in the Music City.

Thomas Walkup had 16 points, nine rebounds and six assists, and Demetrious Floyd and TJ Holyfield scored 10 apiece for the Lumberjacks (2-2), who face Tulane on Friday.

Down by 11 at halftime, the Broncos steadily gained, using a 10-2 rally to close within 57-55 on a jumper by Thomas Wilder. But the Lumberjacks pulled away on seven straight points and led by 10 with 34 seconds left.

Geffrard scored seven straight points for a 15-9 lead and the Lumberjacks led 39-28 at halftime, shooting 6 of 11 from long distance and 9 of 9 free throws.

Thomas led the Broncos (2-3) with 23 points and Tucker Haymond scored 19 with four 3-pointers.