Men's Basketball cruises in opening game win

HAZLETON, Pa. - Three players scored in double figures as Penn State Hazleton earned a 72-44 win over Luzerne County Community College in a non-conference game in the Dr. Thomas Caccese Gymnasium on Tuesday night.

Hazleton (1-0, 0-0 PSUAC) was led by freshman Jacob Solano, who finished with 21 points on 9-for-13 shooting. Freshman Royce Brathwaite added 15 for the Nittany Lions while junior Dwayne Vines contributed 13 points and a game-high nine rebounds.

The Nittany Lions quickly grabbed a 12-0 lead en route to a 32-15 halftime advantage. Hazleton shot a strong 58 percent from the field in the first half, and despite cooling off in the second, were able to build on their lead. Hazleton finished shooting 48 percent from the field.

Hazleton's defense stymied the Trailblazers early and often, holding them to 30 percent shooting in the first half and forcing 20 turnovers during the game. The Nittany Lions also dominated the glass, outrebounding Luzerne 29-16, including 10 offensive rebounds.

Matt Sharpe led Luzerne with 12 points, while Kevin Rosario added seven points and nine rebounds.

Hazleton returns to the court on Thursday, November 6 as they travel to Johnson College for a 7:00 p.m. tipoff.