SAINT LEO, Fla., – Clinging to a one-point lead in the final minute of play, Saint Leo went six-for-eight from the free throw line while the University of North Alabama men's basketball team could not connect from the floor in the 97-90 SLU victory Friday in the season opener for both teams.

The win gives Saint Leo two consecutive victories over UNA at the GSC/SSC Challenge. SLU also defeated the Lions last season at the event held in Huntsville. With Saint Leo playing host to the four-team event this year, the home team began the season with a 1-0 record while the visiting Lions open play 0-1.

SLU led 91-90 with 28 seconds remaining after a pair of free throws by UNA's Dimarrio Jackson. After a foul by the Lions' John Fletcher, Saint Leo extended its lead to three with a pair of foul shots by Austin Pickett.

A missed shot and ensuing foul at the other end of the court resulted in two more free throw attempts for Saint Leo. SLU, however, missed both, to give the Lions life. North Alabama would not be able to take advantage. Following a turnover and foul on UNA, Saint Leo's Carter Belling hit two free throws, then sealed the win with two more foul shots after a desperation three-pointer by the Lions.

Six players reached double figures in scoring for SLU. Ryan Burnett led the way for the host Lions with 18 points and nine rebounds.

Jackson finished with a game-high 25 points to lead North Alabama. The junior was 6-of-11 from the floor with a trio of three-point baskets. He was also 10-for-11 from the charity stripe.

John Fletcher added 18 points and nine rebounds for the Lions. Bilal Richardson also had 15 points while Jeff Hodge rounded out the top scorers with 14 points.

UNA will remain in Florida to face Tampa Saturday at 2 p.m. (Eastern).