PIQUA, Ohio. – The No. 14 Parkland College men's basketball team got off to a strong start to the new season with an 88-72 win at Edison State Community College on Thursday, November 2, at the Edison State Tip-Off Classic. The Cobras (1-0) opened up a 51-43 lead over the Chargers (0-2) in the first half, and the visitors looked in control down the stretch in the second half, never letting up the lead. ESCC cut the Parkland lead to 66-59 with 10 minutes to go, but a quick 8-0 run put the Cobras up 74-59 and forced a Charger timeout. The Tip-Off Classic hosts battled back with a 6-0 run and forced a timeout of their own, but second-year head coach John Bowler's squad never let it get closer than that the rest of the way as both defenses stepped up.

"I loved the way our team came out to compete against a really tough opponent on the road," Bowler said after the season-opening win. "They were a very talented offensive and we were able to pinpoint some areas defensively we need to sure up."

"Overall, very encouraging performance, and I love this team's desire to win. We played well in the preseason against tough competition, which definitely helped prepare us for tonight. Looking forward to getting back on the court tomorrow."

Scoring Summary:
Don Coats III: 18 points, 9 rebounds, 3 blocks, 2 steals
Grant Coleman: 17 points, 5 rebounds
Jabryn Anderson: 10 points, 9 assists
Isaac Mapson III: 17 points, 4 rebounds
Brylan Phillips: 14 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists 

Up next, the Cobras wrap up their time at the Edison State Tip-Off Classic tomorrow, November 3, against Mid Michigan Community College. Tip-off against the Lakers (1-0) is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. EST.