UO mbxb, March 14

A brilliant shooting performance in the second half propelled the Oregon men’s basketball team to a 99-86 victory over Rider on Tuesday in the opening round of the National Invitation Tournament, before 2,327 fans in Matthew Knight Arena in Eugene. Down 44-36 at halftime, the Ducks (23-12) shot 20-of-26 in the second half, making their first 10 shots of the fourth quarter to extend their season. The Ducks await the result of Wednesday’s matchup between Marquette and Harvard; Oregon would play at Marquette, but would host another game if Harvard advances.