CASTINE, Maine — Maine Maritime Academy men's basketball erupted for a dominant second half Monday afternoon, pulling away for a 69-59 North Atlantic Conference victory over Vermont State University-Johnson at the Margaret Chase Smith Gymnasium.

The Mariners (5-9, 5-2 NAC) trailed at the break but flipped the game after halftime, outscoring Johnson 41-20 over the final 20 minutes. Maine Maritime seized control with a sustained run early in the second half, using perimeter shooting and defensive pressure to turn a deficit into a comfortable lead.

Freshman Drew Hamilton paced the Mariners with a game-high 30 points, shooting 12-of-20 from the floor and knocking down six three-pointers. Sophomore Gabe Hagar recorded a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds, while Sophomore Marcus Schade added 15 points and seven boards to round out a balanced offensive effort.

Maine Maritime shot 42.2 percent from the field and connected on 15 three-pointers, with much of that production coming during its decisive second-half surge. The Mariners also controlled the glass after intermission, limiting second-chance opportunities and fueling their transition offense.

Maine Maritime returns to action on Tuesday, Jan. 6, hosting Vermont State University Lyndon at 1 p.m.