MURRAY, Ky. -- Jonathan Stark scored 27 points and Murray State kept pace with Ohio Valley Conference leader Belmont by thumping archrival Austin Peay, 84-63 on Thursday night.

The Racers entered the night one game back of the Bruins atop the OVC.

Murray State built a 10-point lead by intermission, 38-28, but the Racers were slow out of the blocks to start the second half, scoring just two points on a Stark jumper over the first four minutes and the Governors got within six points, 40-34.

Stark finished 12 of 18 from the floor for Murray State (19-5, 11-2). Terrell Miller Jr. added 19 points and grabbed eight boards. Byron Hawkins added 14 points off the bench, and Ja Morant contributed 11 points and dished 10 assists. The Racers shot 59.3 percent from the floor (32 of 54), including 9 of 19 from distance.

Zach Glotta had 17 points for Austin Peay (14-11, 9-4), with Averyl Ugba adding 16 points.