Jackson Shelstad returned to the court, but it was Oregon’s inside game that made the difference against Rice.

Nate Bittle had 25 points, eight rebounds and six blocks to lead the Ducks to a 67-63 win over the Owls Friday night at Matthew Knight Arena.

Oregon (2-0) shot just 32.7% from the field, including only 25% from three, and did not make a shot from the floor in the final 5:14. But UO got to the free throw line 38 times and made 26 compared to 8 of 11 for Rice to maintain the lead for the final 10 minutes.

Shelstad, who made his debut after missing Tuesday’s season opener due to his broken right hand, had 11 points, four rebounds, four assists and three rebounds. He shot 2 of 12 from the field, including 2 of 7 from three, and 5 of 6 from the free throw line in 35 minutes.

Trae B

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