SIOUX FALLS, S.D.  - The University of Denver men's basketball team battle hard before a late run from North Dakota State put the game out of reach, falling 82-62 in the Summit League Quarterfinal on Saturday at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center.

Inside the Box Score:
- KJ Hunt led the Pioneers with a team-high 16 points.
- Tevin Smith wrapped up his freshman season with 10 points.
- Coban Porter knocked down three 3s on the way to nine points.

Significant Stats:
- DU fell to 7-4 this year when leading at the half.
- The Bison took all three meetings in the season series.
- The Pioneers have a 3-7 all-time record in the Summit League Championship now.

Turning Point:
A 19-0 run late in the second half by North Dakota State to take a double-digit lead at 69-52.

As it Happened:
 
First Half:
Denver got the start it was looking for, jumping out to a 17-10 lead by the first media timeout at 13:32. Hunt powered the strong showing, scoring six points early, including a two-handed jam off a steal. North Dakota State got itself back into it, closing to within one at 19-18 with just under 10 minutes left in the opening period. NDSU pushed its lead to two possessions after two made free throws from Sam Greisel at the 6:34 mark, making it 25-21. The Crimson and Gold got the lead back at 31-30 on a lob from Jordan Johnson to Tristan Green, who slammed it home. Denver held its advantage going into the break, up 35-32.

Second Half:
Denver opened quick in the second half, pushing its lead to seven after a 3 from Porter, his third make from beyond the arc in the contest. Smith gave the Pioneers a massive jolt of energy, with a huge one-hand slam to make it 51-47. North Dakota State responded with a 10-1 run to take a five-point lead at 57-52 with 8:50 remaining. The Bison were able to keep separation, building a double-digit edge at 62-52. NDSU kept on the gas from there, never letting the lead drop in
 
Up Next:
Denver (11-21, 7-11 SL) will return to action in the fall to prep for the 2022-23 season.
 
CORONAVIRUS UPDATES: Masks are required at all indoor athletic events. For the latest University of Denver updates on the coronavirus, click here 

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