Pitt Opens Season with 74–59 Win over Youngstown State
The Pitt men's basketball team started the 2025-26 season strong, defeating Youngstown State 74-59 on Monday night at the Petersen Events Center. This victory marked Pitt's fourth consecutive season-opening win, while Youngstown State fell to 0-1 early in the season.
Game Summary
Youngstown State led during the initial part of the game, but Pitt took their first lead at 20-19 thanks to a three-point play by Cameron Corhen. The Penguins responded with a 6-0 run, but Pitt’s defense intensified, and they seized control.
In the final 5:34 of the first half, Youngstown State shot just 1-of-7 and committed three turnovers, allowing Pitt to go on a 14-3 run. This surge gave Pitt a 34-28 lead at halftime.
Corhen’s three-pointer put Pitt ahead for good at 30-28, and Damarco Minor closed the half by scoring four points, including free throws and a contested baseline jumper.
Second Half Highlights
- Pitt extended their lead to double digits early in the second half.
- Youngstown State rallied with a six-point run, narrowing the gap to 54-50.
- Nojus Indrusaitis responded with two free throws, and Minor added a jumper and a dunk, restoring Pitt’s 10-point advantage.
“The Panthers never trailed after their strong finish to the first half,” highlighting their defensive effort and controlled offense.
The victory set a confident tone for Pitt’s season, reflecting their continued dominance in season openers.
Summary: Pitt opened their 2025-26 basketball season with a commanding win over Youngstown State, powered by a key late first-half run and strong defense that secured their fourth straight season-opening victory.