Long Beach State picked up the pace and rallied past Iowa in the second half for a 78-72 victory, Monday at the U.S. Virgin Islands Paradise Jam in St. Thomas.

All five Long Beach State starters scored in double figures, led by Greg Plater's 18 points.

The 49ers (3-2) trailed by two at halftime, but assumed control early in the second half and held off the Hawkeyes to end the tournament on a positive note.

Iowa (2-3) was down only three with two minutes to play, but missed three free throws and turned the ball over twice down the stretch.

The loss continues a difficult start to the season for new Hawkeye coach Fran McCaffery, whose team already lost to South Dakota State and is picked to finish last in the Big Ten.

Bryce Cartwright came off the bench to lead Iowa with 17 points.

The 49ers return home to face Loyola Marymount Saturday.

Iowa looks to rebound at home against SIU-Edwardsville on Friday.