MINNEAPOLIS -- Austin Hollins scored 15 of his career-high 20 points in the first half as Minnesota jumped out to a big lead en route to a 72-36 win over American on Friday night in the season opener for both teams.

Rodney Williams added 16 for the Gophers.

Hollins scored eight points during a 15-0 Gophers run to start the game, including a steal and dunk and a fast-break layup.

Hollins had two more steals and dunks during a 15-2 Minnesota run that made it 34-8 with 5:39 to play in the first half. American had 14 first-half turnovers that led to 17 Minnesota points.

American was led by Stephen Lumpkins with nine points. John Schoof had eight points for the Eagles.

Minnesota shot 43.5 percent for the game; American 23.7 percent.

Minnesota led 44-14 at the half.