TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- Devonta White and R.J. Hunter each scored 18 points in Tuscaloosa on Monday night as Georgia State cruised to a 96-70 victory over McNeese State in the opening round of the NIT Season Tip-Off.

Georgia State (2-1) never trailed, led 54-35 at halftime and held its margin consistently above 25 points throughout most of the second half. Seven Panthers finished with at least 8 points.

The Panthers also shot well -- 56 percent from the field and 53 percent from 3-point range -- while holding McNeese State to 38 percent from the field. Rashaad Richardson scored 15 points on five 3-pointers.

Ledrick Eackles led McNeese State (1-3) with 17 points, but shot only 5 of 15.

Georgia State will play the winner between host Alabama and Stillman College in tomorrow night's regional final. The winner advances to the semifinal round in Madison Square Garden, Nov. 27.