SIOUX FALLS - South Dakota State held off a late rally from North Dakota State to defeat the Bison 77-75 on the opening night of the CU Mortgage Direct Dakota Showcase at the Sanford Pentagon.
The Jackrabbits (4-2) won their third in a row by building up a 14-point first half lead and never letting the Bison (0-5) catch up. It wasn't that easy, however.
Playing without Summit League Player of the Year Douglas Wilson, the SDSU defense stymied the Bison throughout much of the first half. After falling behind 7-6, the Jacks held NDSU scoreless for the next 7:19 and without a field goal for a stretch of 9:20 in the half.