Center Avri Finch scored a game-high 20 points on 7-15 field goals as UC Santa Cruz was edged by Pomona-Pitzer 66-62 in their season opener.
Finch also added a team-high seven rebounds.
After a close opening five minutes, the Sagehens took the lead for good with a 14-1 run midway through the first that made it 21-11, and kept the host Banana Slugs from getting any closer than two possessions.
Ryan Silva scored 12 points. Freshman Zino Okah finished with three steals, two rebounds and two blocks in his college debut. Fellow freshman Zach Granberry added seven points.
Matthew Eberle led three Sagehens (1-0) in double figures with 15 points, including 9-10 free throws. Overall, Pomona Pitzer had a 46-32 rebounding edge.

The Banana Slugs continue their season-opening gauntlet of SCIAC schools when they visit old rival Chapman next Friday.