COL BKB: Villanova 102, Syracuse 85

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 7 (UPI) -- Dante Cunningham scored 18 of his career-high 31 points in the first half Saturday, keying 16th-ranked Villanova's 102-85 Big East win over No. 20 Syracuse.

It was Villanova's fifth straight victory.

In a big all-around effort, the burly forward also had 10 rebounds, three assists, two steals and two of Villanova's nine blocked shots.

Villanova spurted to a quick 10-2 advantage, led 53-38 at the break and played through second-half team foul problems.

Corey Stokes scored 16 with nine rebounds and three assists. Shane Clark added 14 with nine rebounds. Corey Fisher had 14 points, six assists and three steals, while Scottie Reynolds added 10 points for the Wildcats (19-4, 7-3).

Jonny Flynn led Syracuse with 22 points, eight assists and five rebounds. Eric Devendorf scored 21 with four assists and Paul Harris had 14 points and five rebounds. Rick Jackson scored 12 with six rebounds, while Andy Rautins added 12 points for the Orange (18-6, 6-5).