Panthers Basketball Secures Season-Opening Win
PITTSBURGH — The Pitt men’s basketball team overcame an early deficit with a strong 14-3 run to close the first half and maintained the lead to defeat Youngstown State 74-59 on Monday night at the Petersen Events Center, marking Pitt’s fourth consecutive season-opening victory. Youngstown State fell to 0-1.
Game Progression
Youngstown State led during the early part of the game, but the Panthers gained 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 intensified defense soon shifted control.
Youngstown State went just 1-of-7 shooting with three turnovers over the final 5:34 of the first half.
That allowed Pitt to open a 34-28 advantage at halftime. Corhen’s three-pointer put the Panthers ahead to stay at 30-28, and Damarco Minor sealed the half with four points, including free throws and a contested baseline jumper.
Second Half Details
In the second half, Pitt extended their lead to double digits, though Youngstown State fought back to reduce the gap to 54-50 with a six-point run.
Key Moments
- Corhen’s three-point play that gave Pitt their first lead.
- Strong defensive effort in closing minutes of first half.
- Damarco Minor’s clutch scoring before halftime.
- Youngstown State’s late second-half rally.
Author’s summary: Pitt's steady defense and timely scoring secured a solid season opener, overcoming an early deficit to defeat Youngstown State 74-59 and continue their winning season start streak.