Kent, Ohio - Kent State used red-hot shooting and posted an 81-40 victory over Saint Louis on Wednesday night in Kent, Ohio. The Golden Flashes shot 72.7 percent in the first half (16-of-22) in building a 20-point lead and eased to the victory at home.

Barry Eberhardt scored inside to put the Billikens up 2-0, but the Golden Flashes used sizzling shooting and scored 14 straight points to surge into the lead. The Billikens hurt themselves with three turnovers while Kent State hit 6-of-8 shots to open the game. Paul Eckerle finally scored for the Billikens. The Golden Flashes stayed red hot from the field and hit 11-of-15 shots to stretch out their advantage, while the Billikens struggled offensively. SLU finished the half hitting just 27.3 percent (6-of-22), while the Golden Flashes shot a sterling 72.7 percent (16-of-22). The 42 points scored by KSU was the most by an opponent since No. 22 Pittsburgh also tallied 42 points.

Paul Eckerle led the Billikens with eight points. The 81 points scored by Kent State was a season high by a SLU foe. Chris Singletary led the Golden Flashes with 16 points. KSU ended the game shooting 58.3 percent.

The Billikens fall to 5-3 on the season, and Kent State improves to 5-2. The Billikens are next in action at home this Saturday, Dec. 1, when Long Beach State visits Scottrade Center for a 1 p.m. game.