KEENE, N.H. (11/17/01) - The Keene State College men's basketball team defeated Fitchburg State 77-55 victory to capture the KSC Invitational, Saturday in Keene.

Tournament MVP Dave Stantial (Beverly, MA.) had 26 points and nine rebounds to lead the Owls. Freshmen Jason Levecque (Westbrook, Me.) had a strong second half finishing with 11 points.

Jumping out to a 19-6 lead, the Owls extended their lead to 35-9 at the 8:56 mark of the first half. The Falcons never threatened the rest of the way.

The Owls, who were facing Fitchburg State for the first time since the 1970-71 season, had a 52-35 advance on the boards.

Keene State (2-0) will host Endicott College on Tuesday (7 p.m.).

Notre Dame (N.H.) overcame an early deficit to defeat New England College 100-89 in the consolation contest. Alonzo Hoose topped the Saints with 33 points.