Host LSU got 21 points apiece from two freshman guards and defeated Northwestern State 87-78 in Friday's season opener for both teams.

Ralston Turner and Andre Stringer helped the Tigers break open a game they led just 43-41 at halftime. It was 53-all with less than 15 minutes remaining, then Turner's 3-pointer put LSU ahead for good. The duo combined to hit 7 of 15 from beyond the arc.

Sophomore guard Aaron Dotson added 17 points for the Tigers.

The outburst by LSU's backcourt overshadowed a tremendous effort by Northwestern State senior forward Will Pratt, who poured in 29 points.

LSU, coming off a last-place SEC finish and an 11-20 overall mark, is rebuilding under third-year coach Trent Johnson. The Tigers might be inexperienced -- they have no seniors and only four eligible juniors -- but they have a formidable backcourt that should keep them competitive in the SEC.