MINNEAPOLIS, March 13 (UPI) -- Travarus Bennett had 23 points and 15 rebounds and Minnesota used a smothering defense in the second half Wednesday night to cruise to a 96-62 victory over New Mexico in the first round of the National Invitation Tournament.
Minnesota is in the NIT for the second straight season, having reached the second sound last year. It won the tournament in 1993 and 1998 but was forced to vacate the latter title due to NCAA infractions.
New Mexico ended its season with four straight losses.
Bennett made seven of 12 shots and the Golden Gophers shot 53 percent.
The Lobos (16-14) still were within 60-53 with 11:18 to play on a free throw by James Williams. At that point, however, they already had begun a drought that saw them make just one basket in a span of more than 10 minutes.
Bennett made a basket and two free throws to rebuild the lead to double digits and start a 30-4 run. Reserve Jerry Holman had three baskets to push the advantage to 74-55 before Senque Carey scored New Mexico's only hoop during its dry spell.
Over the next four minutes, Bennett had a three-pointer, two baskets and a pair of free throws. A layup by Dusty Rychart gave Minnesota a 90-57 lead with 2:18 to play.
New Mexico shot just 22 percent in the second half and 36 percent overall.
