Sanders scores 22 points as Boston College holds on for 85-76 win over South Carolina

Sanders helps BC hold off South Carolina 85-76

BOSTON — Rakim Sanders scored 22 points, Reggie Jackson 16 and Boston College held on for a 85-76 win over South Carolina after nearly blowing a 21-point halftime lead on Wednesday night.

It was the third straight win for the Eagles (9-4) after embarrassing home losses to Harvard and Rhode Island — both teams from weaker conferences.

Biko Paris added 14 points, with four coming on free throws in the closing minute, for Boston College.

Devan Downey had 29 points and seven assists, and Brandis Raley-Ross scored 13 points for South Carolina (8-4).

The Gamecocks lost their third game to an Atlantic Coast Conference team this season. They also were beaten by Miami and Clemson.

South Carolina, which trailed 48-27 at halftime, quickly got back into the game by forcing turnovers and frustrating the Eagles’ offense with a fullcourt press.