VERMILLION, S.D. (Interstat) — The South Dakota Coyotes used a decisive second-half run to pull away from the Denver Pioneers for an 82-72 men’s basketball victory Saturday at DakotaDome.

The teams were tied 37-37 at halftime, but the Coyotes outscored Denver 45-35 after the break. South Dakota’s efficiency proved key, as it scored 82 points on just 69 possessions. Denver managed 72 points on 71 trips.

Cameron Fens led South Dakota with 23 points, 12 rebounds and four blocks. Isaac Bruns added 20 points. Denver’s Gabe Oldham posted a double-double with 24 points and 13 rebounds in the loss. Zane Nelson added 19 points for the Pioneers.

South Dakota improved to 9-9 overall. Denver fell to 8-11. Attendance was 1,291.