EUGENE, Ore., Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Luke Ridnour scored nine of Oregon's final 11 points Monday night as the ninth-ranked Ducks held on for an 86-77 victory over Cal State- Northridge in the final of the John Thompson Foundation Basketball Challenge.
The Ducks survived a scare from the Matadors, who trailed, 36-31, at halftime, and led in the second half.
Every time it appeared Oregon would pull away, the Matadors had an answer.
After Ridnour made a three-pointer with 10:45 remaining to put the Ducks up, 66-54, the Matadors countered with a 10-0 burst to get to within 66-64 following a dunk by Armand Thomas with 7:13 to go.
Northridge hung tough and forged a 73-73 tie when Chris Davis hit a jumper with 3 1/2 minutes remaining. Just 76 seconds later, it got to within 78-76 following a three-pointer by Justice Graham, but Ridnour nailed a three-pointer 90 seconds later and made three foul shots in the final minute to seal Oregon's 18th straight home victory.
Luke Jackson scored 23 points and Ridnour finished with 19 points for Oregon.
Ian Boylan had 13 points for the Matadors, who placed six players in double figures and shot 48 percent (31-of-64).
