COL BKB: Duke 57, Holy Cross 45

DURHAM, N.C., Dec. 6 (UPI) -- Ninth-ranked Duke spotted Holy Cross a six-point halftime lead Wednesday night, and then rallied to thump the Crusaders, 57-45.

In a sloppy effort, the Blue Devils committed 10 of their 15 turnovers in the first half, and were down, 28-22, at the break.

They used defense to take command in the second half.

Josh McRoberts and DeMarcus Nelson scored 13 points apiece; Gerald Henderson had eight points and four rebounds; while both Lance Thomas and Lance McClure scored six points to help the Blue Devils improve to 8-1 for the season.

Duke out-rebounded Holy Cross, 31-23.

Keith Simmons had 13 points, seven rebounds and two assists -- and was the only player in double figures for the Crusaders (6-3). Alex Vander Baan and Torey Thomas scored six points each.

It was Duke's fourth straight win since a 73-62 loss to Marquette Nov. 21.

Holy Cross has lost two straight.