Norfolk State opened its season with a 68-45 home win over Regent, fueled by Bahsil Laster’s 18 points and a suffocating first-half defense. The Spartans turned a five-point lead into a 20-point halftime advantage with a 13-0 run and stayed comfortably ahead the rest of the way.

By the Numbers
  • Laster scored 18 points, grabbed 7 rebounds and had 2 steals.
  • Norfolk State held Regent to 15 first-half points and 33.3% shooting overall.
  • The Spartans forced 19 turnovers and scored 19 points off them.
  • Norfolk State outrebounded Regent 41-34 and had a 38-24 edge in points in the paint.
Yes, But

Coach Robert Jones called the win a strong start, but said the team is still a work in progress, particularly with several players dealing with nerves and the roster banged up. He also emphasized the need for better shot selection against tougher opponents.

What’s Next

Norfolk State stays home to face Randolph on Wednesday, Nov. 4, with tipoff set for 8 p.m.

Bottom Line

The Spartans’ defense set the tone in the opener, while the win gives a developing, short-handed group room to work through its flaws before tougher tests arrive.