Jahmir Young had 25 points and 10 rebounds, and Charlotte beat Florida International 63-55.
Young made all 11 of his free throws.
Young hit a 3-pointer to even the score at 49 with six seconds remaining in regulation.
"I felt like we came out flat," Young said. "But I felt as a team we put it together at the end. It was big for us."
The win put the 49ers above .500 overall (8-7) and in Conference USA competition (4-3.)
Milos Supica made a layup with 3:49 remaining in overtime to give Charlotte a lead they would not relinquish.
Charlotte and FIU will play again Saturday at 4 p.m.