San Jose State jumped out to an early 10-4 lead over Denver at 15:46 in the first half. The Spartans maintained their lead throughout. Sophomore forward Ryan Welage added offense to help his team up as the teams played to a 34-34 deadlock at 2:13.
The game shifted shortly after as junior guard Jalen James hit a go-ahead three-pointer to put the Spartans ahead 36-34 with 52 seconds left in the first.
SJSU continued to keep it a close game, trailing by just one.
The Pioneers' bench had 26 points in the first half.