The Pitt men's basketball team secured a 74-59 victory over Youngstown State on Monday night in their 2025-26 season opener at the Petersen Events Center. This win marked Pitt’s fourth consecutive season-opening triumph, while Youngstown State fell to 0-1 early in the season.
Youngstown State led during the early phase of the game, but Pitt took its first lead at 20-19 when Cameron Corhen completed a three-point play. The Penguins responded with a 6-0 run, but Pitt increased defensive pressure and gained control.
In the final 5:34 of the first half, Youngstown State struggled, shooting 1-for-7 and committing three turnovers. Pitt capitalized on this with a 14-3 run, entering halftime ahead 34-28.
"Corhen connected on a three-pointer that put the Panthers ahead for good at 30-28, while Damarco Minor closed the period with the final four points – two from the free-throw line and two on a contested baseline jumper."
Pitt extended the lead to double digits early in the second half. Although Youngstown State cut the deficit to four at 54-50 with a six-point run, Pitt quickly responded to regain momentum.
"Nojus Indrusaitis followed with a pair of free throws and then, after a Minor jumper, flushed one home to put Pitt back ahead by 10."
The Panthers controlled the game after the midway point, maintaining a consistent lead and closing out the first victory of their season.
Author's summary: Pitt demonstrated strong defense and resilience to open their season with a solid win over Youngstown State, marking their fourth straight season opener victory.