LOS ANGELES, Calif. - In a thrilling season opener to the 2024-2025 basketball season, the Golden Eagles found themselves in an Orange County versus Los Angeles county matchup against Cal State University Los Angeles, Golden Eagles.

Opening up the first half, both teams were trying to establish themselves on the offensive side of the court. The Golden Eagles emphasized defense throughout the entirety of the game. Playing physically, fighting through screens, and pressuring the ball is what head coach Ken Ammen's defense has brought throughout the years, and this team is no different.

Ending the first half, CUI was right behind the other Golden Eagles, scoring 34-37. Returning from the first half, the Golden Eagles went on a 9-4 run that was a critical scoring run to help CUI all the way to the end of the buzzer. As Cal State LA tried to inch closer and closer, the actual Golden Eagles spread their wings during each of those runs and held that slight five to six-point margin throughout the entirety of the game.

As the final buzzer rang, CUI won the game with a final score of 74-72. Significant contributors from the Golden Eagles included leading scorer and new sophomore Kaden Minter, who scored 23 points on 9-15 from the field, grabbing six rebounds with three steals.  Also helping the cause were newcomer Jayce Catchings, who scored 15 points and grabbed eight rebounds, and veteran point guard Connor Gleason, who scored 11 points on 50 percent shooting from three-point land.

To catch more about men's basketball, CLICK HERE to view their full schedule. The season home opener is this Saturday at 6:00 PM versus Cal State San Marcos.