Thanks to stellar contributions from a pair of sophomores, Northeastern came tantalizingly close to a season-opening victory over highly-touted South Dakota on Tuesday — before ultimately falling 80-76.

One such super sophomore was guard Kendall Currence, who hit seven of nine shots to finish with 19 points, including 14 in the second half.

Alexis Hill added 15 points on 7-of-11 shooting, while also filling the stat sheet with four boards, four steals, three rebounds and three blocks.

Both squads stayed hot from the field, finishing the game at above a 50 percent clip.

Ciara Duffy led the Coyotes with 22 points, five rebounds and five assists.