South Dakota Bounces DU Men In League Opener 81-72

VERMILLION, S. Dakota (CBS4) -- The University of Denver men's basketball team dropped its Summit League opener Saturday afternoon to the South Dakota Coyotes.

DU led 17-16 in the first half but fell behind by 12 at halftime and never recovered.

The Pioneers cut the Coyote's lead to nine when Daniel Amigo's offensive rebound and put-back made it 51-42, but it was the only time South Dakota let its advantage dip below double figures in the second half.

Amigo led Denver (6-9) with 17 points. Jake Pemberton added 14.

Last year's Summit League Newcomer of the Year Matt Mooney turned in a game-high 20 points for USD (13-4).