Foster Sets Freshman Record in Pittsburgh’s Season-Opening Win
Pittsburgh beat Rider 95-57 at home on November 2, led by freshman Chase Foster’s 23 points, a program record for a freshman debut.
Pittsburgh opened its season with a 95-57 home victory over Rider on November 2, as freshman Chase Foster scored a program-record 23 points in his first college game. The Panthers led 50-26 at halftime, with Foster contributing 18 points in the opening period. He finished with six rebounds after taking only four shots in the second half.
Transfer Jonathan Powell scored 18 points, making six 3-pointers. Baye Ndongo and A’lahn Sumler added 12 points apiece, while Jalil Bethea scored 10 off the bench. Pittsburgh made 14 of 26 shots from 3-point range and recorded 21 assists and 13 steals, while holding Rider to 31.6% shooting from the field.
The Panthers have 13 newcomers, including six players with previous Atlantic Coast Conference experience. Their new lineup showed some uneven coordination, but the team still produced a decisive win. Rider, which brought in 14 new players after a 4-25 season, was led by Bryce Baker’s 11 points.
Pittsburgh has now won 154 straight home games when scoring at least 80 points, a streak dating to a 90-83 double-overtime defeat to St. John’s on January 22, 1998. Rider is scheduled to host New Hampshire on Thursday, while Pittsburgh will welcome Buffalo that day.