Charlotte defeats George Washington 72-62

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) Chris Braswell scored 19 points and Javarris Barnett added 18 as Charlotte beat George Washington 72-62 on Wednesday night.

The 49ers went on an 18-3 spurt early in the second half after trailing 42-41, and the Colonials never mounted a serious comeback the rest of the way.

The victory moved Charlotte (13-13, 5-8) closer to securing a spot in the Atlantic 10 Conference tournament after the teams came into the game tied for 11th place in the conference standings. It also was revenge after George Washington (9-18, 4-9) won 60-52 at home in January.

DeMario Mayfield added 15 points and nine rebounds for Charlotte.

Tony Taylor led the Colonials with 14 points. David Pellom had 12 points and 11 rebounds, Nemanja Mikic scored 11 points, and Lasan Kromah was held to 10 on 4-of-16 shooting.

Updated February 22, 2012