Pitt Opens Season with 74–59 Win over Youngstown State
Strong First-Half Surge Defines the Game
The Pitt men's basketball team opened the 2025–26 season with a decisive 74–59 victory over Youngstown State on Monday night at the Petersen Events Center. The Panthers closed the first half on a 14–3 run and held the lead for the remainder of the match.
"The win marked Pitt's fourth straight season-opening victory."
Youngstown State took an early advantage, but Pitt captured its first lead at 20–19 following a three-point play by Cameron Corhen. Although the Penguins answered with a 6–0 surge, Pitt’s defensive pressure shifted the momentum.
Momentum Shift Before Halftime
Over the final five minutes of the opening half, Youngstown State managed only one field goal on seven attempts and committed three turnovers. Pitt capitalized on this stretch, entering halftime ahead 34–28.
Corhen’s three-pointer gave the Panthers a 30–28 edge they never relinquished. Damarco Minor added the final four points of the half with free throws and a mid-range jumper.
Second Half Control
In the second half, Pitt extended its lead to double digits. Youngstown State briefly cut the deficit to four at 54–50, but Nojus Indrusaitis and Minor responded decisively. Indrusaitis sank two free throws, then scored on a powerful dunk to restore a 10-point margin.
Key Contributors
- Cameron Corhen – key first-half surge including a lead-changing three-point play.
- Damarco Minor – consistent scoring under defensive pressure.
- Nojus Indrusaitis – clutch points in the second half to secure momentum.
Team Impact
The victory marked a strong beginning for Pitt’s campaign and extended their streak of opening-night wins to four consecutive seasons. Youngstown State fell to 0–1 on the young season.
Author’s summary: Pitt began its 2025–26 season with disciplined defense and timely scoring, defeating Youngstown State 74–59 for their fourth straight season-opening win.