Pitt Opens Season with 74–59 Win over Youngstown State

The Pitt men's basketball team kicked off the 2025-26 season with a 74-59 victory over Youngstown State Monday night at the Petersen Events Center. This win extends Pitt's streak to four consecutive season-opening successes, while Youngstown State started the season 0-1.

First Half Comeback

Youngstown State controlled the early moments, leading initially. Pitt seized its first lead at 20-19 when Cameron Corhen made a three-point play. Although Youngstown State responded with a 6-0 run, Pitt heightened its defensive pressure and gained control.

Over the final 5:34 of the first half, Youngstown State shot just 1-of-7 and turned over the ball three times.
Pitt went on a 14-3 run to close the half, securing a 34-28 lead at halftime.
Corhen’s three-pointer put Pitt ahead permanently at 30-28.
Damarco Minor ended the half with four points, including two free throws and a contested baseline jumper.

Second Half Control

In the second half, Pitt expanded its lead to double digits. Despite Youngstown State’s six-point run narrowing the gap to 54-50, Pitt responded decisively.

“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.”

This sequence helped Pitt maintain control and close out the game.

Game Summary

Final score: Pitt 74, Youngstown State 59
Pitt secured its fourth straight season opener win
Youngstown State started 0-1 for the season

Author’s note: Pitt’s disciplined defense and timely scoring runs were key to maintaining control and securing a confident season start.

pittsburghpanthers.com — 2025-11-05