Pitt Opens Season with 74–59 Win over Youngstown State
The Pitt men’s basketball team started the 2025–26 season strong with a 74–59 victory over Youngstown State at the Petersen Events Center on Monday night. The Panthers seized momentum late in the first half and maintained control the rest of the way.
First Half: Momentum Shift
Youngstown State opened the game with energy, holding a narrow lead in the early minutes. Pitt responded with a key moment when Cameron Corhen completed a three-point play to give the Panthers their first advantage at 20–19. The Penguins answered with a 6–0 run, but that would be their last push before Pitt’s defense tightened.
Over the final 5:34 of the half, Youngstown State struggled offensively, shooting just 1-for-7 and committing three turnovers. Pitt capitalized with a decisive 14–3 run, moving ahead 34–28 at the break.
“Corhen connected on a three-pointer that put the Panthers ahead for good at 30–28,” the report noted, “while Damarco Minor closed the period with four straight points – two from the line and two on a jumper.”
Second Half: Closing the Game
Pitt extended its lead to double digits early in the second half, though Youngstown State fought back to cut the margin to 54–50. The Panthers composed themselves and answered behind strong play from Nojus Indrusaitis, who sank two free throws and followed with a dunk after a Minor jumper, restoring a comfortable 10-point edge.
Key Stats
- Pitt opened its fourth consecutive season with a victory.
- Youngstown State begins the season 0–1.
- Pitt’s decisive 14–3 late-first-half run shifted the momentum permanently.
Author’s Summary
Pitt launched the new basketball season with poised defense and balanced scoring, pulling away from Youngstown State after a late first-half surge to claim a 74–59 home win.