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Tag: College basketball

  • CU Buffs women’s basketball comes up short at No. 22 Louisville

    Colorado’s Zyanna Walker attempts a shot against Louisville during a women’s basketball game at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky, on Nov. 12, 2025. (CU Athletics)

    Fast break

    Why the Buffs lost: CU did a lot of things well, but ultimately, cold shooting in the fourth quarter and too many turnovers piled up. CU went 2-for-15 from the floor with five turnovers in the fourth quarter.

    Three stars:

    1. CU’s Zyanna Walker: The former Cardinal was great off the bench for the Buffs, scoring a career-high 19 points, pulling down seven rebounds and dishing out four assists.

    2. Louisville’s Skylar Jones: A transfer from Arizona, where she used to give CU fits, Jones finished with 21 points, five steals and four rebounds.

    3. CU’s Anaelle Dutat: Posted her second double-double in as many games for CU, with 13 points (on 6-of-8 shooting) and 11 rebounds before fouling out in the final seconds.

    Up next: The Buffs will host Portland State on Sunday at the CU Events Center (1 p.m., ESPN+).

    There was, without question, disappointment on Wednesday night in the Colorado women’s basketball locker room.

    There was also a lot of confidence gained by the Buffaloes in a 74-68 loss to No. 22 Louisville at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Ky.

    “I’m really proud of a lot of things that we did tonight,” CU head coach JR Payne said. “Obviously disappointed with the outcome, but really tough environment, and a lot of young people – or young to the floor – contributed really well.

    “Some layups and free throws might have made a difference, but lots of things to build on in an early season.”

    CU (1-1) led for more than 25 of the 40 minutes and led after each quarter, but struggled offensively down the stretch against the host Cardinals (2-1). The Buffs went 2-for-15 from the floor and had five turnovers in the final quarter.

    “I think we went five minutes without scoring, and a little bit people playing out of position or what have you,” Payne said. “And credit to them. They’re a real good defensive team, and they were very disruptive. I thought we handled it pretty well, but there was a stretch, and I thought that stretch killed us.”

    Zyanna Walker, who began her career at Louisville, led the Buffs with 19 points, while adding seven rebounds and four assists.

    “For me, I think it hit harder than my other teammates, just because this was my first school out of high school,” the first-year Buff said. “I came here my freshman year, and it didn’t work out, so that hit a little harder. Of course, I wanted to go back and beat my old coach. But, we showed good things out there, and so we are holding our heads up high.”

    Colorado's Anaelle Dutat attempts a shot against Louisville during a women's basketball game at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky, on Nov. 12, 2025. (CU Athletics)
    Colorado’s Anaelle Dutat attempts a shot against Louisville during a women’s basketball game at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky, on Nov. 12, 2025. (CU Athletics)

    CU led by as many as 11 points in the first quarter, going up 21-10 on a Walker 3-pointer with 3:15 to play in the frame. Walker had seven of her points in the first quarter.

    Over the next 6:17, however, Louisville went on a 14-2 run to take its first lead, 24-23. The Buffs then responded with a 10-1 run to bump their lead to 33-25. Louisville hit a 3-pointer just before the halftime buzzer, but CU went into intermission with a 37-34 lead.

    Early in the third quarter, Anaelle Dutat hit a pair of buckets to help the Buffs to a 45-39 lead, but they went cold from there. CU was scoreless for 3:27 while Louisville went on a 10-0 run to lead 49-45.

    Once again, CU rallied, though, closing the third quarter on a 13-6 run to take a 58-55 lead into the fourth.

    The Buffs cold shooting in the fourth, however, doomed them, as Louisville took advantage. The Cardinals took control of the game with an 8-1 run that lasted nearly six minutes.

    CU pulled within 70-68 with 17.1 seconds left on a Walker layup, but Louisville went 4-of-6 at the line down the stretch to seal the game.

    Dutat had another double-double (13 points, 11 rebounds) for the Buffs, while Logyn Greer had 13 points. Overall, CU out-rebounded the Cardinals 46-34 and outshot then, .410 to .391.

    “I’m obviously as disappointed as anybody,” Payne said, “but, for a young team, 10 new players, I think there’s so many good things that we can pull from the stat sheet, from some execution.

    “We were doing some late game things that we hadn’t talked about and weren’t necessarily as prepared as a veteran team would be, but these are huge growth opportunities, and we’re going to lean into that growth and be even better next time out.”

    No. 22 Louisville 74, Colorado 68

    COLORADO (1-1)

    Sanders 2-5 2-2 6, Wooten 2-15 2-2 8, Greer 5-12 3-4 13, Masogayo 3-7 3-4 9, Dutat 6-8 0-2 13, Gooden 0-0 0-0 0, Walker 7-12 4-5 19, O’Connor 0-1 0-0 0, Crook 0-1 0-0 0, Zadel 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 25-61 14-19 68.

    LOUISVILLE (2-1)

    Ziegler 4-12 6-6 15, Scott 2-4 2-4 7, Randolph 3-7 0-1 6, Istanbulluoglu 1-3 1-2 4, Roberts 6-15 2-2 16, Berry 1-8 1-2 4, Putra 0-0 1-2 1, Jones 8-15 4-5 21.

    Colorado                     23        14        21        10        –           68

    Louisville                    18        16        21        19        –           74

    3-point goals – Colorado 4-10 (Wooten 2-6, Walker 1-2, Dutat 1-1, Greer 0-1), Louisville 7-28 (Roberts 2-8, Ziegler 1-6, Berry 1-6, Istanbulluoglu 1-3, Jones 1-3, Scott 1-2). Rebounds – Colorado 46 (Dutat 11), Louisville 34 (Ziegler, Randolph, Putra 6). Assists – Colorado 13 (Walker 4), Louisville 11 (Istanbulluoglu, Roberts 3). Steals – Colorado 6 (Dutat 2), Louisville 11 (Jones 5). Turnovers – Colorado 18, Louisville 8. Total fouls – Colorado 19, Louisville 16. Fouled out – Dutat. Attendance – 6,730.

    Brian Howell

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  • No. 10 Florida holds off rival Florida State 78-76

    GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Thomas Haugh had 20 points and 13 rebounds, Boogie Fland added 18 points and No. 10 Florida handed rival Florida State its first loss under new coach Luke Loucks, 78-76 on Tuesday night.

    The defending national champions nearly squandered a nine-point lead in the final six-plus minutes before making enough plays down the stretch to extend their winning streak in the series to five.

    Fland hit two free throws with 15.8 seconds remaining to put Florida (2-1) up 76-73, and Robert McCray V missed 3-point attempt on the other end. Alex Condon, who committed three turnovers that allowed the Seminoles (2-1) to rally late, seemingly closed it out by hitting two free throws with five seconds left.

    But it wasn’t over until Chauncey Wiggins’ 80-foot shot came up short. Wiggins got a chance because Haugh missed two free throws.

    McCray scored nine consecutive points for Florida State down the stretch, but he missed the second of two free throws with 17 seconds to go. He finished with 29 points. Wiggins added 11, and Kobe MaGee chipped in 14 points and nine rebounds.

    Florida dominated the boards, finishing with a 58-36 rebounding advantage.

    Rueben Chinyelu had 10 points and 16 rebounds for the Gators. Condon added 11 points, six rebounds and six turnovers.

    The Gators trailed 40-35 early in the second half and looked to be in trouble as they couldn’t get any long-range shots to fall. They missed 18 of 21 from 3-point range before Fland got hot.

    Fland hit two 3s in a two-minute span, the first being his first of the season and the second bouncing off the side of the rim and the backboard before dropping through the net.

     

    Up next

    Florida State hosts UT Martin on Tuesday night.

    Florida plays Miami in nearby Jacksonville on Sunday.

    Associated Press

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  • RECAP: Philly College Hoops In-Season Once Again, as St Joe’s Takes Down Drexel, 76-65 – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    College•News

    Credit: Drexel Men’s Basketball-Twitter/X

    This weekend,  the Steve Donahue Era began at St. Joseph’s with another thrilling chapter in Philadelphia Collegiate Basketball History — a 76–65 defeat of Drexel on the Hawks’ Campus.

    But neither the new basketball chapter nor only the second game of a new season was the most exciting part of Saturday at Hagan Arena for Hawks fans.

    Credit: Drexel Men’s Basketball-Twitter/X

    With just under six minutes left in the contest,  St. Joe’s (2–0) went on a 16–5 run to hand Drexel its first loss of the season. Spearheading that run  was former LaSalle transfer Deuce Jones II.

    Jones came off the St. Joseph’s bench to score twenty-nine points, including twelve converted free throws and a perfect 3 of 3 from beyond the arc.

    Drexel (1–1) was led by a double-double from Guard Villiam Garcia Adsten.

    Tags: College College Basketball Dragons Drexel Drexel Basketball Drexel Dragons Hawks NCAA NCAAB St. Joe’s St. Joe’s Hawks Steve Donahue

    Categorized: College News

    Michael Thomas Leibrandt

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  • George Washington takes down South Florida 99-95

    UNCASVILLE, Conn. (AP) — Tre Dinkins helped lead George Washington past South Florida on Saturday with 22 points off of the bench in a 99-95 win.

    Dinkins shot 6 for 9 (4 for 7 from 3-point range) and 6 of 8 from the free-throw line for the Revolutionaries (2-0). Trey Autry added 16 points while going 6 of 10 from the floor, including 2 for 5 from 3-point range, and 2 for 3 from the line and also had seven rebounds. Rafael Castro shot 4 of 7 from the field and 6 of 8 from the free-throw line to finish with 14 points, while adding six rebounds.

    The Bulls (1-1) were led by Josh Omojafo, who posted 33 points, seven rebounds, three steals and two blocks. CJ Brown added 22 points, four assists and four steals for South Florida. Izaiyah Nelson also had 14 points, seven rebounds and two steals.

    Autry put up nine points in the first half for George Washington, which led 44-40 at the break. Dinkins’ 16-point second half helped George Washington finish off the four-point victory.

    Up next

    These two teams both play Wednesday. George Washington hosts American and South Florida hosts Coppin State.

    Associated Press

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  • The world’s tallest teenager becomes the tallest player in college basketball history

    GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Florida coach Todd Golden had people yelling at him at halftime Thursday night to get 7-foot-9 center Olivier Rioux in the game.

    Golden relented with 2:09 to play — and made history in the process — after chants of “We Want Ollie” swept through the O’Connell Center.

    Rioux became the tallest person to ever play college basketball when he made his debut in a 104-64 victory over North Florida. Rioux, a 19-year-old redshirt freshman from Canada and the world’s tallest teenager, drew so much attention from the Ospreys that he didn’t even touch the ball.

    “It felt great,” Rioux said. “The support from everybody was amazing, even on the bench and even the fans. I think everybody supported me. I’m very grateful.”

    When asked about making history, Rioux quipped: “It’s another day, I guess.”

    Rioux made everyone in attendance smile. Even North Florida forward Trey Cady smirked when he measured himself against Rioux. Cady was giving up more than a foot in the matchup.

    “There’s people yelling at me at halftime about playing him,” Golden said. “I’m like, ‘Listen, it will happen. The time will come.’”

    Rioux is 2 inches (5 centimeters) taller than former NBA giants Gheorghe Muresan and Manute Bol, and 3 inches taller than popular big men Yao Ming, Tacko Fall and Shawn Bradley. He already owned a spot in the Guinness record book when he signed with Florida in 2024.

    Golden gave Rioux the option of playing sparingly last season or taking a redshirt season and working on his game. Rioux chose the latter. Nonetheless, he was a walking viral video, from riding his bike on campus, to ducking under every doorway, to cutting down nets while standing flat-footed during Florida’s NCAA Tournament run.

    “He’s put in a lot of great work,” Golden said. “To his credit, he’s kept a great attitude without getting a lot of reward in terms of playing time and opportunity.”

    Golden had made it clear that Rioux would only play late in blowouts, the result of having all four frontcourt players returning. But Olivier doubled down on wanting to be at Florida and welcomed the challenge of playing against Alex Condon, Thomas Haugh, Rueben Chinyelu, and Micah Handlogten in practice and behind them in games.

    “I talked to the guys at halftime when we’re up 24 and I expressed to them the importance of getting off to a really good start so we can get some of the younger guys and some of the guys from down on the bench an opportunity to play and to get some rip,” Golden said. “Obviously the game was in our control and thought it would be a good opportunity to get him out there and get his first college experience, and I think he was pretty excited.

    “It was pretty neat for him to finally see the floor.”

    Fans delivered the loudest ovation of the game — second only to Florida unveiling its championship banner during pregame introductions — when Golden motioned to Rioux at the end of the bench. Rioux pulled off his long-sleeved T-shirt and hustled to the scorer’s table to check in.

    Teammates and coaches celebrated wildly, and fans screamed every time the ball got near Rioux. He’ll have to wait until his next outing to actually touch it.

    “So much fun,” Handlogten said. “When he was checking into the game, I kind of stopped him and I was like, ’Play with confidence. You’ve worked your butt off for two years now to get to this spot. Now’s your moment. This is your time to shine.

    “To see him out there running up and down the court with a little smile on his face, it was really good to see.”

    ___

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  • CU Buffs women’s basketball runs away from New Mexico for season-opening win

    Fast break

    Why the Buffs won: CU dominated defensively, holding New Mexico to a .344 mark while forcing 21 turnovers.

    Three stars

    1. Anaelle Dutat. The Rhode Island transfer enjoyed a memorable CU debut, posting a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds.

    2. Jade Crook. The freshman from Australia recorded 12 points and seven rebounds.

    3. Desiree Wooten. A transfer from North Texas, Wooten filled up the stat sheet with 13 points, three assists, three steals and a pair of rebounds.

    Up next: CU hits the road for a huge test at No. 20 Louisville on Wednesday.

    The new-look rotation for the Colorado women’s basketball team probably will be a work in progress on offense.

    Defensively, however, the Buffaloes already are operating at a high level.

    CU harassed New Mexico throughout the night and tightened the clamps to another level after halftime, as the Buffs gradually pulled away for an 84-59 victory Thursday at the CU Events Center.

    It was the first game of the 10th season for CU under head coach JR Payne, who improved to 10-0 at CU in season openers.

    “Really proud of our team and how we played and how we competed,” Payne said. “You never really expect the beginning to be beautiful, and it wasn’t. But we made some really, really great adjustments at halftime. Defensively in particular. This stat sheet is like a coach’s dream, to have so much balance and feel that so many different people on the team can contribute in lots of different ways. Which, of course, they did. Just really, really proud of how we’re starting the season off.”

    It was a game of runs early, as CU answered a 10-0 burst by New Mexico with 12 consecutive points. The Buffs began the night 0-for-9 on 3-pointers and never truly warmed up from long range, finishing just 4-for-20 from the arc. CU, though, made up ground on defense.

    While the Lobos outshot the Buffs in the first half, .444 to .375, CU forced 12 New Mexico turnovers in the first two quarters and turned the extra possessions into a 13-3 advantage in points off turnovers while building a 33-32 lead at halftime.

    The Buffs took that defense to another level after the break.

    CU outscored the Lobos 33-16 in the third quarter while holding New Mexico to a 6-for-18 mark in the frame. The Buffs steadily pulled away from there, holding the Lobos to a .265 shooting percentage (9-for-34) after halftime.

    “I think we have a tremendous amount of balance,” Payne said. “I think we’re going to see lots of different people in the press conference at the end of the night, because any given player can really impact the game.”

    A total of nine players made their CU debuts, with Rhode Island transfer Anaelle Dutat leading the way. The senior forward posted a double-double in her first game with the Buffs, going 6-for-12 from the floor and 4-for-4 at the free-throw line before finishing with 16 points, 13 rebounds and a team-high four steals.

    Desiree Wooten, a transfer from North Texas, recorded 13 points, three assists and three steals, while Jade Crook, a freshman center from Australia, came off the bench to post 12 points and seven rebounds.

    CU finished with 17 assists, 15 steals and only 10 turnovers. The Buffs dominated all facets, recording lopsided advantages in points off turnovers (27-7), points in the paint (50-24) and fast-break points (24-2).

    “Really happy to be here. Really happy that this was my last first game, I guess. I’m really happy to play here,” said Dutat, who grabbed five offensive rebounds. “I was just trying to be aggressive, and obviously offensive rebounding gets me really aggressive. I’m just trying to keep building on it.”

    CU Buffs women’s basketball 84, New Mexico 59

    New Mexico    12 20 16 11

    Colorado         18 15 33 18

    NEW MEXICO (0-1)

    Hooks 8-20 3-6 22, Magalhaes 2-5 0-0 4, Hargrove 0-4 0-0 0, Padilla 3-9 0-0 8, Craig 2-5 2-2 7, Abdurraqib 3-6 1-3 9, Foster 1-5 0-0 3, Peixinho 0-0 2-2 2, Jones 1-5 0-0 2, Jordon 0-0 0-0 0, Najjuma 0-0 0-0 0, Joaquim 1-2 0-0 2. Totals 21-61 8-13 59.

    COLORADO (1-0)

    Sanders 3-8 1-1 9, Wooten 6-13 0-0 13, Greer 2-6 0-0 4, Masogayo 2-6 0-0 4, Dutat 6-12 4-4 16, Gooden 4-8 2-3 10, O’Connor 5-10 0-12-14 0 11, Crook 4-7 4-4 12, Zadel 0-2 0-0 0, McErlane 1-2 0-0 2, Walker 1-2 1-1 3. Totals 34-75 84.

    3-point field goals: New Mexico 9-25 (Hooks 3-6, Magalhaes 0-2, Hargrove 0-2, Padilla 2-5, Craig 1-1, Abdurraqib 2-4, Foster 1-3, Jones 0-1, Joaquim 0-1); Colorado 4-20 (Sanders 2-4, Wooten 1-4, Greer 0-4, Dutat 0-1, Gooden 0-2, O’Connor 1-3, Crook 0-1, McErlane 0-1). Rebounds: New Mexico 36 (Hooks 7); Colorado 48 (Dutat 13). Assists: New Mexico 8 (Hargrove 3); Colorado 17 (Gooden 3, O’Connor 3, Wooten 3). Turnovers: New Mexico 21 (Magalhaes 5); Colorado 10 (Sanders 3). A: 1,735.

    Pat Rooney

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  • No. 3 Florida dominates North Florida, 104-64

    GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Alex Condon had 25 points and 10 rebounds, Micah Handlogten notched his second double-double in as many games and No. 3 Florida bounced back from a season-opening loss with a 104-64 drubbing of North Florida on Thursday night.

    It was so lopsided that 7-foot-9 walk-on Olivier Rioux, the world’s tallest teenager, made his collegiate debut. The 19-year-old Gators freshman got the loudest ovation of the night when he pulled off his warmup jersey and entered the game with 2:09 to play. Rioux didn’t even touch the ball.

    Coming off a five-point loss to 13th-ranked Arizona in Las Vegas, the Gators unveiled their national championship banner during pregame introductions and then put on a show in their home opener.

    They looked much more like repeat contenders in this one, especially on the defensive end.

    Condon dominated inside three nights after getting outplayed by freshman Koa Peat, adding four assists, three blocked shots and two steals. Florida (1-1) finished with a 64-24 rebounding advantage and outscored the Ospreys 66-22 in the paint. Handlogten finished with 17 points and 13 boards.

    Thomas Haugh chipped in 12 points, eight rebounds and four assists for the Gators, who won their 35th consecutive home opener and improved to 12-0 against the Ospreys.

    North Florida (0-1) was hardly a factor in its season opener, the first game under new coach Bobby Keenen. Kamrin Oriol led the way with 19 points on 8-of-17 shooting. But the rest of the team managed a combined 11 field goals.

    The Ospreys shot 31.1% against Florida’s much bigger and more physical lineup.

    The Gators were far from perfect, though. They were 6 of 32 from 3-point range, bringing their season total to 13 of 59 from behind the arc.

    Up next

    North Florida plays at No. 18 Tennessee on Wednesday.

    Florida hosts rival Florida State on Tuesday.

    Associated Press

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  • Lands’ 21 points lead Middle Tennessee over Milligan 100-51

    MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Kamari Lands scored 21 points to help Middle Tennessee defeat Milligan 100-51 on Wednesday.

    Lands went 9 of 12 from the field (2 for 3 from 3-point range) for the Blue Raiders (1-0). Jahvin Carter scored 12 points while shooting 5 for 10, including 2 for 5 from beyond the arc and added eight assists and four steals. Chris Loofe had 10 points and shot 3 of 6 from the field and 2 for 4 from the line.

    The Buffs were led by Liviu Anton, who recorded 12 points. Milligan also got 11 points from Elijah Bredwood.

    Middle Tennessee took the lead with 18:37 left in the first half and did not trail again. Lands led his team in scoring with 13 points in the first half to help put them up 48-26 at the break. Middle Tennessee extended its lead to 74-37 during the second half, fueled by a 21-2 scoring run. Carter scored a team-high 10 points in the second half.

    ___

    The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

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  • Duke basketball topples Texas. What we learned about the Blue Devils

    Duke’s Isaiah Evans (3) celebrates in the second half of Duke’s 75-60 victory over Texas in the Dick Vitale Invitational at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C., Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025.

    Duke’s Isaiah Evans (3) celebrates in the second half of Duke’s 75-60 victory over Texas in the Dick Vitale Invitational at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C., Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025.


    Ethan Hyman

    ehyman@newsobserver.com

    Charlotte

    They came to Charlotte on Tuesday to help honor Dick Vitale, long one of the leading and certainly loudest voices of college basketball – the man called “Dickie V.”

    Duke, ranked No. 6 in preseason, accepted the opportunity to open a new basketball season in the Dick Vitale Invitational at the Spectrum Center. So, too, the Texas Longhorns, who began the season with a new coach, Sean Miller.

    It seemed fitting. As former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski said in a video tribute to Vitale shown before the game, “His vocabulary became a part of our sports lexicon.”

    After the tribute, and some tears by an emotional Vitale at courtside, the Blue Devils and Longhorns tipped it off to start the season and the Blue Devils came away with a 75-60 victory.

    For Duke, it was the 26th straight season-opening victory. And it would not be a 40-minute Cameron Boozer showcase for NBA scouts.

    Duke’s Dame Sarr (7) defends Texas’ Tramon Mark (12) during the first half of Duke’s game against Texas in the Dick Vitale Invitational at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C., Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025.
    Duke’s Dame Sarr (7) defends Texas’ Tramon Mark (12) during the first half of Duke’s game against Texas in the Dick Vitale Invitational at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C., Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025. Ethan Hyman ehyman@newsobserver.com

    The 6-9 freshman was held scoreless in the first half, which had the Longhorns grittily taking a 33-32 lead. Boozer’s first college points came in the first minute of the second half, and he would finish the game with his first college double-double: 15 points and 13 rebounds.

    “I think he’s one of the best players in the country,” Texas coach Sean Miller said. “I have hard time thinking there’s a freshman who’s better. He’s a one-man wrecking crew.”

    Sophomore Isaiah Evans gave the Blue Devils the needed offense in the first half, getting on one of his 3-point tears and scoring 15 of his 23 points – and having some fun doing it. Boozer was more of a factor after halftime and the Blue Devils stayed in front by spacing their offense better while continuing to battle on the defensive end in limiting Texas to 32 percent shooting with 16 turnovers and just six assists.

    “Our defense carried us the whole time. Once we started to finish possessions without fouling, we made it tough on them to score,” Duke coach Jon Scheyer said.

    Duke had a 51-48 lead midway through the second half before an 8-0 run that ended with an Evans basket. They added to the lead from there for a solid victory to start things off. Texas, which got 16 points from 6-8 junior Dailyn Swain, could not make a late run.

    “They were really good last year and had a chance to win it, and I think they’re really good this year and will have a chance to win it,” Miller said of the Blue Devils, who lost in the 2025 NCAA semifinals

    What was learned about the Devils in the victory?

    Duke’s Cameron Boozer (12) tries to drive around Texas’ Nic Codie (10) during the first half of Duke’s game against Texas in the Dick Vitale Invitational at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C., Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025.
    Duke’s Cameron Boozer (12) tries to drive around Texas’ Nic Codie (10) during the first half of Duke’s game against Texas in the Dick Vitale Invitational at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C., Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025. Ethan Hyman ehyman@newsobserver.com

    Cameron Boozer recovers from slow start

    Cameron Boozer made it all look so easy, almost effortless, in the two exhibition games the Devils played. The big man averaged 28.5 points and 17.5 rebounds and was too much to handle for either Central Florida or Tennessee.

    But the season opener, when everything becomes official and the stats all count, was the opposite for him in the first half. Shots inside did not fall. Nor did the outside jumper. Nor the front end of a one-and-one.

    At halftime, Boozer’s stat sheet showed him 0-7 from the field, 0-3 on 3-pointers and zero points. He did have two personal fouls, one of them a touch foul.

    “Coach Scheyer challenged me at halftime, said I was playing soft,” Boozer said, drawing a second look from Scheyer, seated by his side at postgame press conference

    His response in the second half? Boozer took the ball inside and was fouled, making two free throws for his first college points. He had a two-hand slam that had the crowd roaring. He then made a neat feed thorugh traffic to Patrick Ngongba II for a dunk.

    Boozer was more determined, more focused. He didn’t force anything. He played big, with composure.

    “He doesn’t have his best stuff and comes out the second half and has a 15 and (13) night. Not bad. Not bad at all,” Scheyer said.

    Duke’s Maliq Brown (6) and Nikolas Khamenia (14) go after the loose ball with Texas' Dailyn Swain (3) during the first half of Duke’s game against Texas in the Dick Vitale Invitational at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C., Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025.
    Duke’s Maliq Brown (6) and Nikolas Khamenia (14) go after the loose ball with Texas’ Dailyn Swain (3) during the first half of Duke’s game against Texas in the Dick Vitale Invitational at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C., Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025. Ethan Hyman ehyman@newsobserver.com

    Blue Devils happy to have Brown back

    Duke coach Jon Scheyer said throughout preseason practices that the Blue Devils needed Maliq Brown back in the lineup to be a more complete team.

    The 6-9 senior was slowed much of last season with shoulder issues. That healed after a lot of rehab work, but Brown then needed a knee procedure before preseason began.

    Everything pointed to Brown, the Devils’ best defender, being ready for the opener. He did not start the game, but was Duke’s first substitute and immediately went to work.

    Defending Texas’ Lassina Traore at the top of the key, Brown used his long reach to get a piece of the ball, which bounded into the backcourt. Duke’s Darren Harris and Brown chased after it, Harris diving across the floor to knock the ball off Traore and out of bounds for a turnover.

    Those are the kind of hustle plays that an active Brown can initiate, that the Blue Devils will need.

    “He’ll be better and better. We’ll continue to get him back to where he wants to be,” Scheyer said.

    Texas' Matas Vokietaitis (8) charges into Duke’s Patrick Ngongba (21) during the first half of Duke’s game against Texas in the Dick Vitale Invitational at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C., Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025.
    Texas’ Matas Vokietaitis (8) charges into Duke’s Patrick Ngongba (21) during the first half of Duke’s game against Texas in the Dick Vitale Invitational at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C., Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025. Ethan Hyman ehyman@newsobserver.com

    Longhorns tried to rough up the Devils

    The Longhorns found a way to disrupt Duke’s offense in the first half – effectively, if ultra physically.

    The Horns banged bodies, slapped, whacked, locked arms, did whatever worked to disrupt the Blue Devils. Scheyer had a few words – or more than a few words – with the three refs working the game, but the first 20 minutes produced some ragged, ragged basketball as neither team could find any flow to their game.

    Duke missed its first five shots and a pair of free throws before Dame Sarr gave the Devils their first basket of the season with a 3 from the left corner with 16:31 left in the first half – credit Brown with the first assist.

    Texas had little success stopping or slowing Evans, who knocked down four 3’s in scoring 15 first-half points. But Cameron Boozer couldn’t get started and showed some frustration at times.

    The Longhorns didn’t let up on the rough stuff on the offensive end, either. Matas Vokietaitis, an awkward 7-foot center, tried to straight-line his way to the basket when he got the ball anywhere need the lane. Late in the first half, the FAU transfer turned, put his shoulders down and flattened a Duke defender without dribbling, overcooking it and turning the ball over.

    The Lithuanian, the American Athletic Conference freshman of the year last season, made enough bullish moves to get to the line for five first-half free throws and made them all with a weird flick of the wrist shooting motion.

    By the second half, Duke fans were booing Vokietaitis every time he touched the ball. He finished with 15 points and eight rebounds.

    “If the crowd is booing him, he must be doing something right,” said Texas guard Jordan Pope, who also had 15 points.

    This story was originally published November 4, 2025 at 11:21 PM.

    Chip Alexander

    The News & Observer

    In more than 40 years at The N&O, Chip Alexander has covered the N.C. State, UNC, Duke and East Carolina beats, and now is in his 15th season on the Carolina Hurricanes beat. Alexander, who has won numerous writing awards at the state and national level, covered the Hurricanes’ move to North Carolina in 1997 and was a part of The N&O’s coverage of the Canes’ 2006 Stanley Cup run.

    Chip Alexander

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  • Wes Enis’ 22 points lead USF past Florida A&M

    TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Wes Enis’ 22 points helped USF defeat Florida A&M 102-67 on Monday in the season-opener for both teams.

    Josh Omojafo added 17 points for the Bulls. Izaiyah Nelson had 16 points.

    Micah Octave finished with 16 points, eight rebounds and two steals for the Rattlers. Florida A&M also got 14 points and three steals from Tyler Shirley. Jordan Chatman finished with 11 points.

    USF took the lead with 9:45 remaining in the first half and did not trail again. Enis led their team in scoring with 12 points in the first half to help put them up 47-33 at the break.

    USF extended its lead to 81-51 during the second half, fueled by a 9-0 scoring run. Nelson scored a team-high 11 points in the second half as their team closed out the win.

    Spectrum News Staff

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  • No. 3 UCLA women flex their depth, top San Diego State in season opener

    ANAHEIM — It took a moment to settle down the first-game energy at the Honda Center.

    But once the UCLA women’s basketball team found its footing, brushing aside its four turnovers in the first quarter, there was no question as to why many believe the Bruins can return to the Final Four – or push for more – this season.

    Third-ranked UCLA (1-0) could be special if each cog in the Bruins’ machine churns a little faster and more efficiently than it did Monday night in a comfortable, yet not entirely dominant, 77-53 victory over San Diego State in the season opener for both teams, billed as the Orange County Hoops Classic.

    Senior center Lauren Betts battled double-teams to finished with a game-high 21 points (11 in the first half) on 9-of-12 shooting. Gabriela Jaquez, an X-Factor senior guard, grabbed a game-high 11 rebounds (four of which were offensive).

    Kiki Rice may have unexpectedly started the game on the bench – likely in favor of senior forward Angela Dugalić – but when the senior guard entered to sink a 3-pointer to end the Bruins’ 0-for-10 run from behind the arc to begin the game, it was proof of how deep they could be.

    Team-wide, UCLA recorded nine blocked shots and five steals while shooting 48.5% from the field, compared to SDSU’s 33.9%. They outrebounded the Aztecs 49-25.

    The Bruins’ depth – the depth that UCLA coach Cori Close (entering her 15th season) referred to during the preseason as a team of players who could star for any team in the country, but would also need to be patient for playing time and to make their impact – was on full display.

    Gianna Kneepkens showcased her highly advertised length and tenacity as a defender in her first game as a Bruin.

    The Utah transfer began the contest with a lay-in on an assist from Charlisse Leger-Walker –  the Washington State transfer who sat out her first season in Westwood while recovering from a torn ACL – to make it 2-0, and later in the second quarter blocked a 3-point attempt from San Diego State guard/forward Sofia Kelmeni to deflect the ball into the path of Rice.

    Rice, entering her fourth year in Westwood – along with Betts, a member of the preseason All-Big Ten team – shuffled the ball right back down to Kneepkens, driving down the court with long 6-foot strides, who converted a layup to to give the Bruins a 24-13 lead.

    Leger-Walker, whom Close said last week lowers the pulse of the team while on the court, recorded a team-high 31-plus score across 24 minutes.

    Manning the point guard spot for the majority of the game, the sixth-year Kiwi guard’s return to action, 650 days after tearing her ACL, was smooth sailing and capped by a reverse layup that stalled a 16-12 scoring stretch for the Aztecs from end of the third quarter into the fourth.

    UCLA held SDSU scoreless for exactly five minutes in the third quarter, a run of high-effort intensity from Jaquez sparking a 16-0 run. Need an offensive rebound? Jaquez boxed her way out for a second-chance bucket to make it 44-24.

    Later in the period, the Camarillo native – and brother of Miami Heat forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. – stripped the Aztecs (0-1) for back-to-back steals, leading to a layup and 3-pointer of her own to make it 53-24.

    Close had glowed over Jaquez during her media availability a week ago, and for good reason as she recorded 15 points, 11 rebounds and five assists on Monday – UCLA’s first double-double of the season.

    The Bruins were without touted freshman Sienna Betts, younger sister of Lauren, and Timea Gardiner, the team’s leading 3-point shooter last season who has a knee injury. Betts hurt her lower left leg in a scrimmage.

    Six of UCLA’s first eight games will be played at neutral sites, including two visits to Las Vegas in a three-week span.

    Kaelyn Hamilton scored 11 points, and Nat Martinez and Nala Williams had 10 each for the Aztecs, who shot 10 for 25 from 3-point range.

    More to come on this story.

    Benjamin Royer

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  • Photos: N.C. State defeats North Carolina Central in season opener

    N.C. State defeated North Carolina Central 114-66 on Monday at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, the inaugural regular season win for first-year head coach Will Wade.

    Darrion Williams led the Wolfpack with 19 points, and seven players recorded double figures.

    N.C. State will host the University of Alabama at Birmingham on Friday evening in Raleigh.

    N.C. State head coach Will Wade greets the fans as he comes onto the court before N.C. State’s game against N.C. Central University at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C., Monday, Nov. 3, 2025.
    N.C. State head coach Will Wade greets the fans as he comes onto the court before N.C. State’s game against N.C. Central University at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C., Monday, Nov. 3, 2025. Kaitlin McKeown kmckeown@newsobserver.com

    N.C. State’s Quadir Copeland drives to the basket as he is fouled by North Carolina Central’s Ramondo Battle II during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State’s Quadir Copeland drives to the basket as he is fouled by North Carolina Central’s Ramondo Battle II during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State's Darrion Williams (1) celebrates during N.C. State’s game against N.C. Central University at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C., Monday, Nov. 3, 2025.
    N.C. State’s Darrion Williams (1) celebrates during N.C. State’s game against N.C. Central University at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C., Monday, Nov. 3, 2025. Kaitlin McKeown kmckeown@newsobserver.com

    N.C. State head coach Will Wade speaks with his team during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State head coach Will Wade speaks with his team during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State’s Tre Holloman and North Carolina Central’s Khouri Carvey lunge for a loose ball during the first half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State’s Tre Holloman and North Carolina Central’s Khouri Carvey lunge for a loose ball during the first half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State’s Paul McNeil Jr. drives past North Carolina Central’s Justin Edwards during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State’s Paul McNeil Jr. drives past North Carolina Central’s Justin Edwards during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State's Quadir Copeland (11) shoots during N.C. State’s game against N.C. Central University at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C., Monday, Nov. 3, 2025.
    N.C. State’s Quadir Copeland (11) shoots during N.C. State’s game against N.C. Central University at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C., Monday, Nov. 3, 2025. Kaitlin McKeown kmckeown@newsobserver.com

    N.C. State’s Matt Able reacts after scoring during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State’s Matt Able reacts after scoring during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    Fans react during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    Fans react during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State’s Matt Able smiles as he is surrounded by teammates following a dunk during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State’s Matt Able smiles as he is surrounded by teammates following a dunk during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State head coach Will Wade yells to the officials during N.C. State’s game against N.C. Central University at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C., Monday, Nov. 3, 2025.
    N.C. State head coach Will Wade yells to the officials during N.C. State’s game against N.C. Central University at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C., Monday, Nov. 3, 2025. Kaitlin McKeown kmckeown@newsobserver.com

    N.C. State's Musa Sagnia (13) pulls in a rebound during N.C. State’s game against N.C. Central University at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C., Monday, Nov. 3, 2025.
    N.C. State’s Musa Sagnia (13) pulls in a rebound during N.C. State’s game against N.C. Central University at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C., Monday, Nov. 3, 2025. Kaitlin McKeown kmckeown@newsobserver.com

    N.C. State’s Tre Holloman motions on the bench during the second half of N.C. State’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State’s Tre Holloman motions on the bench during the second half of N.C. State’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State’s Jordan Snell shoots over North Carolina Central’s Jonathan Dunn and Ryan Archey during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State’s Jordan Snell shoots over North Carolina Central’s Jonathan Dunn and Ryan Archey during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State’s Jerry Deng and Paul McNeil Jr. high five at the conclusion of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State’s Jerry Deng and Paul McNeil Jr. high five at the conclusion of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State head coach Will Wade addresses the crowd following the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State head coach Will Wade addresses the crowd following the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State’s Scottie Ebube lays the ball in during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State’s Scottie Ebube lays the ball in during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State’s Ven-Allen Lubin slams in two during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State’s Ven-Allen Lubin slams in two during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State’s Quadir Copeland, center, reacts on the bench during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State’s Quadir Copeland, center, reacts on the bench during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State’s Musa Sagnia grabs a rebound away from North Carolina Central’s Ramondo Battle II (22) during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State’s Musa Sagnia grabs a rebound away from North Carolina Central’s Ramondo Battle II (22) during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State head coach Will Wade reacts on the sideline during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State head coach Will Wade reacts on the sideline during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State’s Paul McNeil Jr. and Quadir Copeland walk down the court together during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State’s Paul McNeil Jr. and Quadir Copeland walk down the court together during the second half of the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    N.C. State head coach Will Wade, center, stands with his team at half court during the playing of the alma mater following the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C.
    N.C. State head coach Will Wade, center, stands with his team at half court during the playing of the alma mater following the Wolfpack’s 114-66 win over North Carolina Central at Lenovo Center on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer

    This story was originally published November 3, 2025 at 10:38 PM.

    Kaitlin McKeown

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  • Peat leads No. 13 Arizona to 93-87 win over No. 3 Florida

    By  W.G. RAMIREZ

    LAS VEGAS (AP) — Freshman Koa Peat scored 30 points to lead No. 13 Arizona to a 93-87 win over third-ranked and defending national champion Florida in the Hall of Fame Series on Monday night.

    Peat was impressive in his college debut, shooting 11 of 18 from the floor and adding seven rebounds and five assists. He was fouled making a defensive rebound with 14.2 seconds left and hit his two ensuing free throws to seal the victory in both teams’ season opener.

    But, it was consecutive dunks by Peat late in the second half that sent the crowd at T-Mobile Arena into a frenzy and punctuated his first college game.

    Jaden Bradley was also impressive, scoring 27 points, including 11 of Arizona’s final 18 points, to help seal the win.

    Ivan Kharchenkov shook off an injury late in the first half that sent him to the locker room and finished with 12 points for the Wildcats.

    Thomas Haugh led Florida with 27 points, Xaivian Lee scored 14 and Alex Condon and Micah Handlogten each had 11.

    The Wildcats shot 49.2% (30 of 61) from the field, while Florida’s poor second-half shooting (14 of 38, 36.8%) sealed its fate.

    The Gators opened the game strong, pushing their lead to 12 points after hitting 11 of their first 16 shots.

    The Wildcats clamped down on defense and held Florida to 5-for-16 shooting the rest of the half while going on a 32-16 run by hitting 11 of 18 shots down the stretch.

    Arizona, which shot 50% from the floor in the first half, led 50-46 at halftime.

    Up next

    Arizona: Hosts Utah Tech on Friday.

    Florida: Hosts North Florida on Thursday.

    ___

    Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here and here (AP News mobile app). AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball

    Associated Press

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  • UMass Lowell men’s, women’s basketball teams to begin seasons Monday

    Excitement abounds as the UMass Lowell men’s basketball team is gearing up for a new season. The River Hawks will open the new campaign against Rivier University at the Kennedy Family Athletic Complex, formerly Costello Athletic Center, on Monday at 7 p.m.

    This season brings a new level of anticipation, as UML will feature an entirely new look, with 12 of the 13 players having never suited up for the program. Despite the challenge of the unknown, head coach Pat Duquette is looking forward to seeing what his roster, which features eight transfers, two true freshmen and three redshirts can do.

    “It’s unlike any other team I’ve ever had. I’ve never been through this experience where you get 10 new guys and we only return a few minutes from a previous team. It’s been fun, though, it’s a great group of guys. I’m really enjoying working with them and being around them, but it’s just been a different experience for me and my coaching staff to really have so many new guys and have to teach this way and start from scratch,” Duquette said.

    Last season, the River Hawks finished 17-15 under Duquette’s tutelage, marking their third consecutive winning season. Despite the new roster for 2025-26, UMass Lowell was still selected fourth in the America East Preseason Coaches’ Poll, signifying the respect for Duquette’s recruiting abilities.

    The 2025-26 roster features 10 newcomers, which marks the largest class to join the team in its Division I history.

    Bringing a mix of experience and youth to the lineup, the incoming group features two true freshmen, Victor Okojie (Castlebar, Ireland) and JJ Massaquoi (Prince George’s County, Md.), alongside senior Austin Green (Sicklerville, N.J.), juniors Darrel Yepdo (Dracut), Angel Montas Jr. (La Romana, D.R.), Xavier Spencer (Calgary, Alberta, Canada), Shawn Simmons II (Philadelphia, Pa.), Jared Frey (Columbus, Ohio), Jerrell Roberson II (Upper Marlboro, Md.), and Khalil Farmer (Philadelphia).

    Women

    In his first season at the helm, head coach Jon Plefka leads the UMass Lowell women’s basketball program into the 2025–26 campaign focused on communication and steady growth. With a roster split evenly between returners and newcomers, the River Hawks look to establish a foundation that reflects those principles from day one.

    UML will open Monday by hosting Saint Anselm at 4 p.m.

    “Our standard is the standard. We’re focused on doing everything to the best of our ability and letting that process define who we become,” Plefka said.

    Seven River Hawks return to the lineup this season, bringing familiarity and leadership to a roster otherwise full of fresh faces.

    Junior Maddie Rice (Charlottesville, Va.) appeared in 26 games last year, averaging 6.8 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. Senior Amina Kameric (Seattle, Wash.) started 16 contests, while sophomores Nia Chima (Toronto, Ontario), Jennah Johnson (Woodbridge, N.J.), Emina Kameric (Seattle, Wash.), Carla Subirats (Barcelona, Spain), and senior Sophie Baydanov (Vienna, Austria) also return after contributing during the 2024–25 campaign.

    Together, the returning group provides experience across multiple positions as the team transitions into its new era.

    Staff Report

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  • Miami (OH) hosts Old Dominion to open season

    Old Dominion Monarchs at Miami (OH) RedHawks

    Oxford, Ohio; Monday, 7 p.m. EST

    BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: RedHawks -7; over/under is 149

    BOTTOM LINE: Miami (OH) hosts Old Dominion in the season opener.

    Miami (OH) went 15-1 at home a season ago while going 25-9 overall. The RedHawks averaged 80.6 points per game last season, 30.8 in the paint, 17.1 off of turnovers and 10.5 on fast breaks.

    Old Dominion finished 5-7 on the road and 15-20 overall last season. The Monarchs averaged 5.5 steals, 3.4 blocks and 10.9 turnovers per game last season.

    ___

    The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

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  • Florida State has 5 rushing TD in 42-7 rout of Wake Forest

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Tommy Castellanos threw for 271 yards and had one of Florida State’s five rushing touchdowns in a 42-7 rout of Wake Forest on Saturday.

    Sam Singleton had 14 carries for 91 yards and a 10-yard touchdown as the Seminoles (4-4, 1-4 Atlantic Coast Conference) halted a four-game slide and earned their first ACC victory since a 14-9 win over California on Sept. 21, 2024.

    Gavin Sawchuk added a pair of 1-yard TD runs, while tight end Randy Pittman had a 7-yard TD run out of the wildcat formation.

    Castellanos completed 12 of 16 passes for 217 yards, connecting with Duce Robinson five times for 148 yards and an 11-yard touchdown.

    Robby Ashford completed 12 of 21 passes for 93 yards and ran 12 times for 59 yards for Wake Forest (5-3, 2-3), which was coming off an upset of SMU.

    The takeaway

    Wake Forest: The Deacons had a pair of long runs erased by holding calls, among six first-half penalties. Wake trailed 14-0 at the half and finished with just 247 total yards

    Florida State: The Seminoles, who hadn’t won a power-conference game since the opener against Alabama, dominated and quieted the criticism of coach Mike Norvell.

    Up next

    Wake Forest plays at Virginia on Saturday.

    Florida State plays at Clemson on Saturday.

    Associated Press

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  • No. 5 Georgia rallies and escapes with a 24-20 victory against Florida

    JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Gunner Stockton threw two touchdown passes, Chauncey Bowens scored on a late 36-yard run and No. 5 Georgia escaped the rivalry known as the “World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party” with a 24-20 victory against Florida on Saturday.

    It was the Bulldogs’ fifth consecutive victory in the series and their eighth in the last nine meetings. But this one was closer than any of those others. 

    Georgia stopped Florida on a fourth-and-1 at the Bulldogs 18-yard line with a little less than eight minutes to play, a momentum-turning moment in a back-and-forth game. Stockton and Zachariah Branch took over from there, putting Georgia (7-1, 5-1 Southeastern Conference) in position for its fourth come-from-behind victory in six league games.

    Bowens darted up the middle following the duo’s second connection and scampered untouched to the end zone.

    Florida (3-5, 2-3) had a chance late, but DJ Lagway’s deep pass short-hopped intended receiver J. Michael Sturdivant. Sturdivant got behind the defense and probably would have scored had the pass not been badly underthrown.

    Stockton, a noted alligator hunter in the offseason, completed 20 of 29 passes for 223 yards. Branch caught 10 passes for 112 yards. 

    Bowens and Nate Frazier combined for 115 yards on the ground.

    Florida played inspired football in its first game since firing coach Billy Napier. Receiver Eugene Wilson III was the biggest benefactor of Napier’s departure. He more than doubled his receiving yards on the season, finishing with nine catches for 121 yards and a touchdown.

    Interim coach Billy Gonzales made an aggressive call to go for it on fourth down, but giving the ball to Jadan Baugh up the middle was as predictable as anything Napier did in his four seasons with the Gators.

    Poll implications 

    Georgia avoided becoming another top-10 team to lose Saturday and should stay put in the top five. No. 9 Vanderbilt and No. 10 Miami lost on the road, with the Commodores falling at Texas and the Hurricanes dropping a game at SMU.

    Georgia loses two defenders 

    The Bulldogs lost two starting defenders in the first half.

    Defensive lineman Jordan Hall injured his right knee on Georgia’s first defensive series. Hall’s leg got slammed into when teammate Raylen Wilson tackled Eugene Wilson III over the middle. Hall was helped off the field and into the locker room. The team quickly ruled him out for the game.

    Defensive back KJ Bolden was ejected for targeting in the second half. He was penalized 15 yards for leading a tackle with his helmet.

    Florida receiver watches second half in a walking boot 

    Florida freshman receiver Dallas Wilson came out of the locker room after halftime wearing a walking boot on his right foot. Wilson caught one pass for 7 yards in the first half.

    He missed the first four games this season with a left foot injury. He scored three touchdowns in his first two college games but has been relatively quiet since.

    The takeaway 

    Georgia: The Bulldogs have too many holes to be considered a threat in the playoffs. Branch is the team’s only offensive star, and the Dawgs rank last in the SEC in sacks. 

    Florida: Trey Smack set a school record with his ninth career field goal of 50 yards or longer, breaking a tie with Caleb Sturgis. Smack’s 54-yarder in the fourth put the Gators ahead 20-17. 

    Up next 

    Georgia plays at Mississippi State next Saturday.

    Florida plays at Kentucky next Saturday.

    Associated Press

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  • Gophers men’s basketball coach believes team can make its way back to Big Ten contention

    The new job at Minnesota is all-consuming for Niko Medved like any major college basketball coach, with his mission to lift a long-languishing program back into the upper level of the Big Ten at a time of unprecedented transformation in the sport leaving little time for reflection.

    Every once in a while, though, he’ll see a familiar face from the past, walk past a certain place on campus, or roam through the cramped subterranean corridors at Williams Arena and find himself flashing back to a brief time when the Gophers were the hottest ticket in town and The Barn, as the 97-year-old building has long been called, was as tough of a place to play for opponents as anywhere in the conference.

    Medved would know, of course, because he was a part of it.

    “There have been moments that really excite me where I still feel like there is that underlying support of people who love the ‘U’ and love Gopher basketball. It’s still there somewhere. I can feel it,” said Medved, who was hired by his alma mater seven months ago after a seven-season run at Colorado State. “It’s kind of dormant right now. How do we bring that back and help it grow? That’s really our challenge. But for me that’s a personal challenge. I feel like this is home. I want nothing more than to find a way to build this program back.”

    Athletic director Mark Coyle has long had that in mind, too, stating as much when he fired Ben Johnson after the Minnesota native and former Gophers player and assistant went 22-57 in Big Ten play over four seasons.

    Success has come in waves at Minnesota, with a consistently strong stretch in the 1950s under Ozzie Cowles and several stacked teams in the 1970s under Bill Musselman and Jim Dutcher before Clem Haskins revived the Gophers again with a trip to the Sweet 16 in 1989.

    In a conference that was as loaded as ever, Minnesota finished with a winning record in Big Ten play for four straight seasons from 1993-94 through 1996-97, matching the longest such streak in program history (1951-52 through 1954-55). The Gophers went to their only Final Four in 1997, a feat that was later vacated by the NCAA as part of the widespread punishment for an academic fraud scandal.

    Minnesota was between NHL teams then. The Timberwolves were a relatively new — and floundering — team in the NBA. There was less competition for winter attention in a major metro area and more people around who grew up with The Barn’s uniquely raised floor as the premier stage for sports in the region.

    “The enthusiasm was great,” Medved said. “The brand of Gopher basketball was strong.”

    Behind the scenes, helping Haskins and his staff from everything from scouting reports to sweat towels, the seeds of a future coaching career were planted for a former high school point guard whose father bought season tickets for the Gophers before he was born.

    “You kind of get to see how every part of the program works, and then when you then have the opportunity to be in charge, you kind of have an understanding of what everyone’s doing,” said Medved, who got his first coaching job in 1997 at the NCAA Division III level as an assistant at Macalester, a few miles from the Minnesota campus.

    From there, he landed at Furman as an assistant for seven seasons, made a one-year stop at Minnesota, and went to Colorado State for six more seasons before breaking into the head coaching circle. He started at Furman in 2013 for four years, spent one season at Drake, and then pivoted to Colorado State for the next seven years before getting the chance to come home. The Rams hit the 25-win mark and made the NCAA Tournament in three of the last four seasons, finishing one basket short of the Sweet 16 last spring.

    One of four new head coaches in the Big Ten this season, three of which spent time at Drake, Medved had to bring in 10 transfers and inherited only one returning player, sophomore guard Isaac Asuma, who was on the court last season. The revenue sharing era has also created another challenge to navigate as he and his staff try to build a winner. But the timing might also be a benefit, with every other program that’s not one of the traditional blue bloods entering a similar unknown. Coyle has said Minnesota’s goal is to spend on men’s basketball at a level that matches its peers.

    “If not now, then when?” Medved said.

    Players have raved during the preseason about how strong the chemistry on and off the court is, despite few prior relationships within this patchwork roster that’s become more and more commonplace across the game. Medved’s offense is built around cutting, spacing and ball movement, tenets that tend to dovetail with players recruited whose priorities aren’t necessarily big NIL money or NBA draft status.

    “I think the secret sauce to us turning programs around has been the people who are like-minded with the same values who want to be part of a team, who love basketball,” Medved said.

    Forward Jaylen Crocker-Johnson followed Medved from Colorado State and said he knew “right then and there” when Medved got the Minnesota job that he wanted to go, too.

    “He’s really emphasizing building good relationships with his players for sure,” Crocker-Johnson said.

    Guard Langston Reynolds, who came from Northern Colorado and played against Medved’s team twice, was drawn to the genuine demeanor.

    “He tells you what you need to be doing and what you need to be focused on. If you do the right things, then everything else will work out. I think just how he is on camera is exactly how he is off camera,” Reynolds said. “That’s just how he is as a coach and as a person.”

    CBS Minnesota

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  • University of Denver moving to West Coast Conference in 2026, according to report

    The University of Denver is riding the latest wave of college realignment.

    DU is moving from the Summit League to the West Coast Conference in 2026, according to a report by ESPN’s Pete Thamel. The Pioneers will be a member of the conference in nine sports.

    A move to the WCC fits the bill for DU, a private school, as the league is comprised of private schools on the West Coast. Though Gonzaga, historically the conference’s best basketball school, is leaving for the rebuilt Pac-12 in 2026, the conference is still a step up for the Pioneers in the college athletics landscape.

    The Pioneers have belonged to the Summit League since 2013. Prior to that, DU spent a year in the Western Athletic Conference, was in the Sun Belt from 1999-2012, and was independent from 1962-99. Before that, DU was a part of the Mountain States Athletic Conference.

    Basketball-wise, the WCC will be a challenge for DU’s men’s basketball team, which struggled to find a consistent footing in the Summit and has never made an NCAA Tournament appearance. The Pioneers begin the 2025-26 season next week under first-year coach Tim Bergstraser, and haven’t had a winning season since 2016-17.

    The school has yet to make a formal announcement about the move, though that is expected to come sometime Friday morning. DU athletics staff members received emails early Friday morning stating there would be a mandatory meeting at 9 a.m., a source told The Denver Post.

    This story will be updated.

    Kyle Newman

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  • Mississippi’s AD prepares again to keep Lane Kiffin

    OXFORD, Miss. (AP) — Mississippi’s athletic director might go pretty far to keep Lane Kiffin away from Florida, LSU or any other high-profile college football job opening.

    But Keith Carter seems done attending hot yoga class with his coach.

    “He didn’t go this week,” Kiffin said with a grin during his weekly press conference. “He went in for the first time against Georgia but he says he’s not going now because we lost.”

    Both men have other priorities, anyway.

    Kiffin and the No. 7 Rebels (7-1, 4-1 SEC) host South Carolina (3-5, 1-5 SEC) on Saturday to continue their chase for a conference title and a berth in the College Football Playoff.

    For Carter, it’s the annual contract negotiation process as he tries again to turn away suitors for Kiffin.

    Kiffin has a six-year contract that has already been extended twice since 2022 and is scheduled for another renewal in early December that stretches into the next decade. Kiffin is set to make $9 million this season, 10th-highest in the country, and Carter has repeatedly said Ole Miss will do what it takes financially to keep Kiffin in Oxford.

    Carter said earlier this month he’d already been talking with Kiffin’s agent, Jimmy Sexton, and would “be proactive with working out a deal with Lane and Jimmy.”

    Carter grew up in the small town of Perryville, Arkansas, the son of a banker who emphasized that personal relationships were as critical to success as the accompanying finances. Carter remembered the life lesson while building his athletic reputation.

    Carter became an All-SEC and honorable mention All-American guard at Ole Miss in the late 1990s, playing on three NCAA Tournament teams. After a professional career in Italy, Carter joined the athletic department in 2009 and became the athletic director in 2019, approximately the same time Ole Miss named a new chancellor, Dr. Glenn Boyce.

    Kiffin’s hiring in 2020 was the first of several shrewd hires but was criticized at the time. Kiffin’s best success as a head coach had been a pair of Conference USA titles at Florida Atlantic.

    Kiffin had missed out on openings at Power Five schools after high-profile exits from the NFL’s Oakland Raiders, Southern Cal and Alabama. He had a reputation as an offensive savant but was candid regarding the need for changes in his personal life.

    Carter identified with Kiffin personally, especially regarding overlooked talent and rejection. Growing up in Arkansas, Carter was bypassed as a recruit by the talent-laded Razorbacks and joined a struggling Ole Miss basketball program, lifting them to a pair of SEC division titles, national rankings and NCAA Tournament play.

    Since the Kiffin hire, Carter has shored up his program by repeating the script in the hire of men’s basketball coach Chris Beard, who left Texas after charges of domestic violence. The charges were dropped shortly afterward and an exonerated Beard rewarded Carter by leading the Rebels to a Sweet 16 NCAA Tournament appearance last season.

    Carter emphasizes advantages offered at Ole Miss, such as first-class facilities and a friendly fan base. His son, Knox, is the quarterback of the Oxford High Chargers, coached by Chris Cutcliffe, the son of former Ole Miss head coach David Cutcliffe, whose reputation as a quarterback “whisperer” includes Peyton and Eli Manning.

    The lifestyle pace of Oxford is slower than most major college towns. The daily media demands are less and the smaller group of sports writers have personable relationships with Kiffin, especially compared with other SEC schools. Kiffin’s eccentricities, such as an extensive social media presence, are not just tolerated, but embraced and celebrated by Ole Miss fans.

    When asked if Kiffin, Carter and Boyce have an atypical relationship among staff members, Kiffin quickly agreed.

    “Dr. Boyce and Keith have been amazing. They’ve done everything they can to help us win and I’ve been very appreciative of them as my two bosses and my friends. They’ve been amazing people for me to be around and I consider them really good friends.”

    Good enough that Kiffin understands if Carter won’t join him for hot yoga sessions anymore.

    “It’s not about who is the best in there,” Kiffin said. “But maybe we liked getting Keith in there and watching him struggle.”

    Associated Press

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