CANCUN, Mexico (Dakota News Now) - South Dakota State fell to tough-minded UC Irvine, 64-52, in the finale of the Cancun Challenge on Wednesday at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya.

SDSU held a 10-6 lead with 14 minutes, 12 seconds left in the first half following a Luke Haertle field goal. The two sides were eventually tied at 11 before consecutive 3-pointers made by the Anteaters made it 17-11 with just under 10 minutes remaining in the opening half.

The Jackrabbits remained in striking distance throughout the first 20 minutes of play. It was a one-possession game with under two minutes to go, but UC Irvine closed the half with four straight points to take a 29-22 lead into halftime.

UC Irvine extended its advantage to begin the second half as SDSU’s offense couldn’t find the bottom of

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