DALLAS, Texas – St. Edward's men's basketball used a big run early in the second half to pull away in a 71-47 win over Colorado Christian to open the season.
 
The Hilltoppers jumped out to an 8-0 lead in just under three minutes of action and never lost the lead. SEU was able to close the half as they started and took a 14-point advantage into the locker room, 34-20.
 
St. Edward's never took their foot off the gas in the second half, watching their lead swell to 31 points, 57-26, on BLAKE NIELSEN's three with just over 11 minutes to play. Despite the hefty lead, the Hilltoppers were relentless and pushed their lead to 38, 66-28, with a layup from GAVINO RAMOS with eight minutes remaining.
 
With the win never in doubt, St. Edward's confidently closed the game out to secure their first win of the season.
 
SEU shot 40.4 percent from the field and 36.4 percent from three-point range. UCHE DIBIAMAKA led the way with 12 points while LOGAN COOK and JAKE KRAFKA added 11 points each.
 
Cook was also all over the glass, leading SEU with 11 boards as the Hilltoppers outrebounded CCU 39-26.
 
The Hilltoppers start the year with a 1-0 record and return to action to face #4 Colorado Mesa on Saturday. Tipoff is set for 5 pm.