Panthers Basketball Avoids Upset in Season Opener
PITTSBURGH — The Pitt men's basketball team rallied with a 14-3 run to close the first half and never fell behind again, beating Youngstown State 74-59 Monday night in their 2025-26 season opener at the Petersen Events Center.
This victory marked Pitt's fourth consecutive season-opening win, while Youngstown State opened the season with a loss.
Game Summary
Youngstown State controlled the early stages of the game, but Pitt took its first lead at 20-19 on a three-point play by Cameron Corhen. The Penguins countered with a 6-0 run, but Pitt responded by intensifying their defense and taking control.
- Youngstown State struggled in the final 5:34 of the first half, shooting 1-of-7 with three turnovers.
- Pitt’s 14-3 run put them ahead 34-28 at halftime.
- Corhen’s three-pointer gave the Panthers a lead they never relinquished, at 30-28.
- Damarco Minor closed the half strong with four points, including free throws and a contested jumper.
In the second half, Pitt extended their lead to double digits, though Youngstown State narrowed the gap to 54-50 with a six-point streak.
"Youngstown State led throughout the early stages, but the Panthers took control with a strong defensive effort and clutch scoring down the stretch."
The Panthers maintained their momentum to secure the season-opening victory.
Summary: Pitt's defensive adjustments and timely scoring runs fueled their fourth straight season-opening win, overcoming an early Youngstown State lead.