MONTGOMERY, AL – The Benedict College men's basketball team defeated Florida Tech 92-75 on Friday night in the South Region Tip-Off Challenge in the season opener for both teams.

Tajh Green led the Tigers (1-0) with 18 points and eight rebounds. Deon Joyner added 12 points and nine rebounds, while Joseph Staton contributed with 10 points, eight assists, and four rebounds.

After Benedict took an early 13-7 lead, the Tigers went on a 27-6 run midway through the first half to jump to a 40-13 lead. Benedict would lead 50-20 at the half.

The Panthers would not quit, as they would go on a 35-13 run to close the gap to 11. This was as close as Florida Tech would get in the second half. Joyner knocked down a free throw, followed by a jump shot from Green, to stop the Panthers' run. This would start a 16-8 run for the Tigers, which was enough to hold on and win the contest.

Benedict will continue their play in the South Region Tip-Off Challenge on Saturday against Rollins College at 2 p.m.