ABILENE, Texas – In their first matchup in 44 years, Abilene Christian University defeated the McMurry University men's basketball team, 88-40, Saturday afternoon at Moody Coliseum.

The War Hawks (4-8) stayed within striking distance in the first half, keeping the game within 10 points for the first 15 minutes. A Zacc Carter three cut the deficit to 20-13, but the Wildcats were too much the rest of the way.

Trailing 38-20 at the half, McMurry got the first point of the second half, but the Wildcats scored the next 29 points to break the game open. The War Hawks reserves were able to knock down a couple late threes for the final margin.

Carter led the War Hawks with 15 points, adding four rebounds. Senior forward Jordan Jackson and freshman guard Jordan Sherman each tallied six points.

The War Hawks shot just 27.3 percent from the field compared to 47.3 percent for the Wildcats.

McMurry will resume conference play Monday, when UT Dallas visits Kimbrell Arena for a 2 p.m. tipoff.