By Nick Veronica

Jarryn Skeete scored a go-ahead layup with 41 seconds left and UB’s defense held on to beat South Dakota State, 69-67, in the season opener for both teams Friday night at Alumni Arena.

Junior forward Justin Moss scored a career high 25 points and completed the double-double with 13 rebounds, but fouled out with 3:45 remaining.

The Jackrabbits’ Jake Bittle scored the last of his team-high 16 points with 1:06 to go, which put South Dakota State ahead 66-65.

Shannon Evans missed a three-pointer on UB’s ensuing possession, but Skeete would later score to put the Bulls ahead for good. UB’s defense came up with two steals in the final minute and Evans made enough free throws to get the win.

The final minute of regulation lasted more than 15 minutes.

Jackrabbits forwards Cody Larson and Zach Horstman both recorded double-doubles. Larson had 15 points and 15 rebounds while Horstman scored 13 and collected 12 boards.

UB freshman guard Lamonte Bearden started and had six assists along with eight points on 2 of 7 shooting. Forward Will Regan played 30 minutes but took just one shot, missing it. He made four free throws.

UB was 1 of 9 from three-point range.

UB starters: Regan, Evans, Bearden, Skeete, Evans.

Next: Sunday at #1 Kentucky, noon, ESPNU.