CHARLESTON – Coach Justin Caldwell's Glenville State unit opened their season Friday night, riding an energetic second half for a solid 87-75 victory over St. Augustine. The Pioneers overcame a sluggish start to post the season opening victory. The game was a part of the season's lid-lifting tournament hosted by the University of Charleston.
 
St. Aug's was the aggressor in the early stages, as the Pioneers did not find their shooting touch in the early stages. SAU jumped to an early 9-2 lead, and the advantage extended to ten at 22-12, 24-14, and 31-21. GSC answered with a 15-5 run to tie the game 36-36, and put themselves on top at 41-40 for intermission. The comeback run during this critical stage included successful drives to the basket by John Williams, and a pair of three-pointers from Luke LeRose.
 
Glenville settled the issue early in the second half opening the frame with a convincing 11-1 run, pushing the lead to 52-41. Caldwell and his staff implored his troops to keep the up-tempo in motion, and fifteen minute into the second half, the lead had extended to 74-56. The Pioneers cruised home from there for the win.
 
Williams led the way with 23 points, followed by Nick Edwards with 16 and Zane DeSouza with 14. Edwards led with six rebounds and also seven assists, and three steals. Omar Theilmanns recorded two blocked shots.
 
As a team, GSC shot 50.7% from the field, including 12-of-33 from beyond the arc (36.4%). DeSouza led the long-range barrage with four three-pointers, while a trio of players hit three; LeRose, Seth Fallon, and Tommy Williams. The defense forced 13 St. Aug' turnovers.
 
Glenville returns to action tomorrow in Day Two of the tournament, facing off against California (PA). Cal defeated the host Charleston squad Friday, 96-92.