TAKEAWAYS – Men’s Basketball Notches First Win Of 2024-25 Season

MIAMI, FL – For the first time in the 2024-25 season, the FIU Panthers have won a game, defeating Florida National by a final score of 110-55. FIU never trailed in this game and head coach Jeremy Ballard will move to 6-1 in home openers for his career.

Big Night For Vianney Salatchoum

From the start, the Panthers big man was on it. He was easily the tallest player on the court and certainly took advantage of that, finishing the night with 16 points, nine rebounds, one assist and three blocks. These are all career highs for Salatchoum.

Ashton Williamson Makes First Collegiate Start

It didn’t take long for the freshman guard to insert himself into the starting lineup. With forward Jonathan Aybar out for the game, FIU went with a smaller lineup, which included Asim Jones and Dashon Gittens as the two other guards.

Williamson ended the night with 14 points, seven rebounds and two assists. He shot 6-9 from the field and 1-2 from beyond the arc.

Foul Trouble No More

Through two games this season, FIU got into foul trouble very quickly. That all ended on Thursday night when they only committed 15 fouls.

What’s Next?

With the win, FIU moves to 1-2 on the season. They will host the Howard Bison. That game will take place on Monday, November 18th at 7pm.