Faust, Jones lead Long Beach State to 80-77 victory

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) Nick Faust scored 16 points and Branford Jones hit two crucial foul shots as Long Beach State outlasted Seton Hall 80-77 at the Charleston Classic on Thursday night.

The 49ers improved to 3-0 for the first time since the 1992-93 season. Not that it was easy as they squandered most of a 16-point lead in the final 10 minutes and led just 76-74 with 22 seconds left. That's when Jones hit both free throws to extend the lead.

Seton Hall (2-1) wasn't done as Khadeen Carrington's 3-pointer cut the margin to 78-77. This time, Travis Hammonds hit two foul shots to keep the 49ers out front.

Carrington's desperation 3 in the final moments was off the mark.

Long Beach State will take on either No. 6 Virginia or Bradley on Friday for a place in Sunday's championship game.

Isaiah Whitehead had 21 points to lead Seton Hall.