Pitt Opens Season with 74–59 Win over Youngstown State
The Pitt men's basketball team secured a 74-59 victory over Youngstown State on Monday night, marking their fourth consecutive season-opening win. The game took place at the Petersen Events Center, kicking off the 2025-26 season.
Game Summary
Youngstown State initially led during the early stages, but Pitt seized their first lead at 20-19 following a three-point play by Cameron Corhen. Although Youngstown State responded with a 6-0 run, Pitt's defense intensified, allowing them to control the game from that point on.
- Youngstown State struggled in the final 5:34 of the first half, shooting 1-of-7 with three turnovers.
- Pitt's 14-3 run closed the half, giving them a 34-28 lead at halftime.
- Corhen's three-pointer at 30-28 put Pitt ahead for good.
- Damarco Minor ended the half with four points, including two free throws and a contested baseline jumper.
Second Half Highlights
Pitt expanded the lead to double digits, although Youngstown State briefly cut it to four with a six-point surge, making the score 54-50. Pitt responded strongly:
- Nojus Indrusaitis added two free throws.
- Following a jumper by Minor, Indrusaitis completed a powerful dunk.
- These plays restored Pitt's lead back to 10 points.
“The Panthers took their first lead at 20-19 on a Cameron Corhen three-point play and never looked back.”
This win extends Pitt’s solid start to the season, while Youngstown State falls to 0-1 in their campaign.
Author’s Summary
Pitt’s strong defensive effort and timely scoring runs secured a confident season-opening victory against Youngstown State, setting a positive tone for the Panthers’ 2025-26 season.