George Mason 78, Charlotte 56

Published Nov. 18, 2010 11:03 p.m. ET

foxsports

Luke Hancock had a career-high 18 points to lead George Mason past Charlotte 78-56 at the Charleston Classic on Thursday night.

Hancock scored 13 of his points in the second half as the Patriots (2-0) turned a tight contest into a rout. They'll take on North Carolina State in Friday's semifinals, with the winner advancing to Sunday night's title game.

George Mason let a double-digit lead dwindle to 30-24 by halftime and Charlotte (1-2) seemed to shake off a poor shooting half to get back in it.

The Patriots quickly ended the 49ers' comeback hopes. Mike Morrison had a basket and a three-point play to push George Mason's edge to 38-26.

Hancock took over later in the half, scoring 11 straight points to put the game out of reach for Charlotte and first-year coach Alan Major.

Jamar Briscoe led the 49ers with 20 points.