Freshman Chase Foster scores 23 and Pittsburgh begins season with 95-57 victory over Rider

Freshman Chase Foster put on a dazzling debut for Pittsburgh, scoring a season-high 23 points in their Monday night 95-57 win against Rider. Transfer Jonathan Powell contributed significantly as well, netting 18 points on six 3-pointers. The Panthers began their season strong, dominating from behind the arc, with eight out of their sixteen field goals in the first half coming from beyond the arc.

Freshman's 5 of 8 shooting from the field in the first half, including two 3-pointers, helped them lead by 50-26. Freshman scored at a blistering pace, but still managed to grab five rebounds in 13 minutes. Supporting players Baye Ndongo and A’lahn Sumler each added 12 points for Pittsburgh. Jalil Bethea scored 10 points off the bench for Rider.

This marks the start of a new era for the Panthers, as they have thirteen new players joining the team, six of which have prior experience in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Rider, returning home to face New Hampshire on Thursday, will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing 4-25 season last year.