NEW ORLEANS — City rival Dillard rallied in the final 3 1/2 minutes Friday for a 76-71 men's basketball victory against Xavier University of Louisiana in the season opener for both teams.
        Tory Cargo's 3-pointer put the Bleu Devils ahead to stay at 65-64. Dillard then tacked on eight free throws and a Bentravin Phillips 3-pointer to secure its second victory against the Gold Rush in the last 11 meetings.
        Armond Williams led Dillard with 17 points, eight rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
        Lance Williams had 25 points and 12 rebounds for the Gold Rush, and newcomer Seviuhn Turner scored 12.
        Freshman Wayne Randall Bashay's layup gave XULA its final lead, 64-62. Dillard led 33-29 at halftime.
        XULA and Dillard will meet again at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 18 in the Crosstown Classic at XULA's Convocation Center.
        Next for the Gold Rush will be a 3 p.m. exhibition Nov. 9 against NCAA Division I Alcorn State in XULA's homecoming doubleheader.