Staff report

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Paul Tako jumped off the Livingstone bench and poured in 18 points in 17 minutes.

Livingstone also got 25 efficient points from Jamal Cannady and enjoyed one of its best shooting nights of the season in Thursday’s 89-71 win against Converse in Hannah Gym.

James Nipper added 13 for the Blue Bears (8-5), who led by 14 at halftime.

Livingstone shot 54.1 percent from the field, went 9-for-18 on 3-pointers and 14-f0r-19 on free throws.

Livingstone had a solid edge on the boards, and Converse shot 40 percent. Jay Mitchell scored 21 for Converse (3-7).

Livingstone    42   27   — 89

Converse         28  43    — 71

LC scoring — Cannady 25, P. Tako 18, Nipper 13, Lewis 8, Minard 7, Ijeoma 6, Mobley 4, Jenkins 4, Baxter 2, Weakly 2.