Kent State didn’t exactly roll out the welcome mat for former coach Stan Heath’s return to Ohio, dealing Heath and South Florida a 56-51 loss at the Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center.

Heath led Kent State to an Elite Eight appearance during the 2001-02 season, but couldn’t replicate that magic Sunday night with South Florida. Kent State (8-3) trailed by as many as 11 points in the first half, but played tough in the second half to snap a two-game losing streak and avenge last season’s 76-54 loss to the Bulls.

Kent State made up for a sluggish offensive performance by forcing 19 USF turnovers. The Golden Flashes were led by Michael Porrini who scored 16 points off the bench. Justin Greene added 15 points off the bench for Kent State, which took the lead for good on a Rodriguez Sherman free throw with 10:31 left in the second half.

South Florida’s (5-5) Jawanza Poland scored 15 points to lead the Bulls, who will look to rebound Wednesday against Auburn.