LAS VEGAS - Southern Illinois University's men's basketball team led by as much as 12 in the opening half, but took a three-point lead into the locker rooms earlier tonight in Las Vegas.

John Freeman had 11 and Tony Freeman had 10 points to lead the Salukis (2-0), who struggled from the field at the Thomas & Mack Center. SIU, which was shooting 52.3 percent from 3-point range entering the game, made just 4-of-13 against UNLV (2-0) in the opening half.

Luckily, the Salukis played good enough defense to stay in it. The Runnin' Rebels went on an 18-6 run behind a few triples, but made only 3-of-10 for the half from 3-point range.

Derrick Jasper, a transfer from Kentucky, led UNLV with 11 points.

todd.hefferman@thesouthern.com / 618-351-5087