PHILADELPHIA — Rahlir Hollis-Jefferson posted a career-high double-double and Temple went on an 18-0 run late in the first half in an 82-74 victory Thursday night in Atlantic 10 Conference play.
The Owls (18-8, 7-5), whose last five games were decided by one point, turned a 24-21 deficit into a 39-24 lead. La Salle (18-7, 8-4) sought its first outright title in Philadelphia’s City Series since 1990. Instead, it allowed a season high in points and tied Temple at 3-1 in the Big Five.
In the second half, Temple led 53-31 after a 3-pointer by Scootie Randall (15 points). La Salle twice got within nine points. Two late treys by the Explorers made the final margin eight points.
Hollis-Jefferson was dominant for Temple with 23 points and 18 rebounds, career highs in both categories. Khalif Wyatt added 17 points.
Ramon Galloway led the Explorers with 18 points and Tyreek Duren added 16.
