ST. THOMAS, Virgin Islands — Xavier University of Louisiana allowed its fewest points in a half in 73 years and held on for a 44-41 men's basketball victory Friday against Keiser.
     It was the season opener for both teams.
     The Gold Rush, ranked 23rd in the NAIA, led 22-10 at halftime. It was the best scoring defense in a half by the XULA men since allowing six points in the first half at home against Alabama State on Feb. 9, 1945.
     XULA won its opener for the 23rd consecutive season. Alfred Williams is 12-0 in XULA openers — 3-0 as a player, 6-0 as assistant coach and 3-0 as head coach.
     The Gold Rush led 35-24 with 5:48 remaining, then the Seahawks scored 17 of the next 24 points to close the gap to 42-41 in the final minute. XULA sealed the victory when newcomer Johnell Lane made 2-of-2 free throws with 2.8 seconds remaining, then the Rush produced a turnover on Keiser's final possession.
     XULA allowed its fewest points in an opener since a 97-41 home victory vs. Schreiner on Nov. 11, 1995, and its fewest points in any game since a 42-39 victory at Edward Waters on Feb. 20, 2016.
     XULA will play the University of the Virgin Islands at 2 p.m. AST (1 p.m. CDT) Sunday, then play its home opener at 7 p.m. Thursday against Carver in the Convocation Center.