BEAUMONT, Texas – Four different Cardinals scored in double-figures for an offense that shot 50 percent from the field as Lamar University defeated Jarvis Christian, 114-66, Monday evening to open the 2023-24 regular season. Sophomore transfer B.B. Knight led all scorers with 19 points.
 
The Cardinals hit the first field goal of the game – a Cody Pennebaker three-pointer – and the race was on as the Cardinals sprinted out to an early double-digit lead. Big Red was firing on all cylinders earlier knocking down 23-of-37 (.622), including eight three-pointers, while also converting 14-of-17 free throws.
 
The Cardinals cooled off in the second half but built such a large lead that the final outcome was never in doubt. In addition to shooting 50 percent for the game, the Cardinals were 10-of-31 (.323) from long range and a near perfect 22-of-26 (.846) from the stripe.
 
Combine Lamar's strong shooting performance with a dominant effort on the glass, 60-29, and the Cardinals never allowed Jarvis Christian a chance to rally. Big Red's defense also forced the Bulldogs into 20 turnovers which they converted into 23 points.
 
The Cardinals had a significant advantage in the paint where they outscored their guests, 58-12, to go along with a 28-5 advantage in second chance points.
 
While JCU picked up the tempo in the second half, the Bulldogs were hurt by a 7-of-33 (.212) effort in the opening 20 minutes of action. Jarvis finished the game shooting 17-of-59 (.288) from the field, with five three-pointers. The Bulldogs were led by Erin Wright's 12 points.
 
Knight was joined in double-figures by juniors Terry Anderson (17 points), Jakevion Buckley (16) and Je'Sean Jackson (14). Senior Adam Hamilton and junior Valentin Katt just missed double-doubles. Hamilton scored nine points and pulled down seven rebounds while Katt had eight points and nine rebounds.
 
The Cardinals take a step up in competition Thursday when they head to Dallas, Texas to take on SMU. The game against the Mustangs will tip off at 7 p.m. from Moody Coliseum. It will be broadcast live on ESPN+.