Baton Rouge, LA -- (Sports Network) - A.J. Slaughter posted a game-high 30 points to lead Western Kentucky past Milwaukee, 69-65, at the NIT Tip-Off Tournament.

Sergio Kerusch hit two free throws in the final seconds, part of his 13-point, nine-rebound game for the Hilltoppers (1-0), who will play LSU in the South championship on Tuesday.

James Eayrs had 13 points and five boards for the Panthers (1-1), who beat Concordia-St. Paul on Friday. Patrick Souter added 12 points and Ricky Franklin posted 11 in a losing effort.

Eayrs hit a layup and was fouled with four seconds to go, and Milwaukee was behind by 67-65. He missed the free throw and Kerusch was fouled on the defensive glass.

Kerusch sank both his attempts, then stole the ball from Milwaukee's Tony Meier to wrap up the win.