Thompson leads George Mason to 68-62 win over Ole Miss

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — Shevon Thompson had 18 points and 16 rebounds as George Mason opened the Charleston Classic with a 68-62 victory over Mississippi on Thursday.

The Patriots (1-2) watched a 13-point lead slip away in the second half before rallying for first-year coach Dave Paulsen’s debut win with the program.

The Rebels (2-1) of the Southeastern Conference trailed 52-39, but tied it 56-all on Sam Finley’s two foul shots with 4:07 remaining. That’s when Marquisse Moore hit 3-pointer to put George Mason up for good.

Mississippi closed to 61-60 with 1:31 remaining on foul shots by Robert Brooks. Moore again came through with a layup on the next possession as George Mason closed with a 7-1 run.

Jaire Grayer had 15 points and Moore 12 for the Patriots, who will play Oklahoma State or Towson here Friday.

Stefan Moody led Ole Miss with 18 points, 13 coming in the second half.