PULASKI, Tenn. – The UT Southern men's basketball team opened the 2026-27 season in impressive fashion Thursday night, earning a 92-66 victory over Oakwood University in front of the home crowd.
In the first home game of the season, the Firehawks showcased an explosive offense and a relentless defensive effort to give head coach Andy Sharpe a winning start to the new campaign.
After the teams traded baskets early, UT Southern began to find its rhythm midway through the opening half. The Firehawks used a balanced scoring attack and timely perimeter shooting to create separation, closing the first half on a strong run to take a 40-25 advantage into the locker room.
The momentum only grew after halftime. UT Southern continued to push the pace offensively while controlling the boards and forcing difficult possessions on the defensive end. The Firehawks steadily extended their advantage throughout the second half, building the lead to as many as 29 points before securing the victory.
Luke Lentz led all scorers with 24 points and delivered a remarkable shooting performance, connecting on eight three-pointers. Antonio Cochran added 19 points and eight rebounds while knocking down four shots from beyond the arc.
Latarious Brewer provided a spark on both ends of the floor, finishing with 12 points, seven rebounds, six assists, and three steals. Isaiah Claybrooks contributed 10 points and a game-high eight assists while directing the Firehawk offense throughout the evening.
TJ Hollinger controlled the paint with nine rebounds and two blocked shots, while Daniel Nwauzu added eight points and six rebounds to help UT Southern dominate the glass.
As a team, the Firehawks shot 53.2 percent from the field and an outstanding 55.6 percent from three-point range, knocking down 15 triples. UT Southern also won the rebounding battle 46-24, recorded 20 assists, and turned defensive pressure into offense with 24 points off turnovers.
UT Southern's depth was on full display throughout the night as multiple players contributed key minutes and scoring production. The Firehawks limited Oakwood to 35.7 percent shooting from the floor and controlled the tempo for the majority of the contest.
With the victory, the Firehawks open the season at 1-0 and will look to carry that momentum into Saturday's home matchup against Reinhardt University.
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