Box Score WILSON – The University of Mount Olive men's basketball team opened the season with a 99–84 win over Augusta on day one of the 45-Second Classic hosted by Barton College.

UMO controlled the first half, building a lead that stretched to 17 points. Both teams shot similar percentages, but the Trojans dominated the break, outscoring the Jaguars 23–15 in fast-break points to set the tone early.

Jefferson McLamb fueled the opening surge. He went a perfect 5-for-5 from the field in the first half, including a three from the top of the key, while adding three rebounds. He finished with 20 points on 9-of-12 shooting, hit two threes, and collected seven rebounds and two assists. Raul Perez scored 21, while Redford Dunton and Matt Kirby each added 14.

Despite UMO's pace, Augusta stayed within reach by scoring 19 points off turnovers and trimming the deficit to four late in the first half.

The Trojans broke the game open after the break. Perez, Dunton, and Kirby sparked a 10–6 run to push the lead to 61–51, and UMO controlled the rest of the way. Perez, who had just seven points at halftime, erupted in the second half to finish with 21, attacking the lane and scoring at will.

The Trojans return to action tomorrow morning, facing Wingate at 11 a.m. on day two of the 45-Second Classic.