MIAMI GARDENS, FL (NOVEMBER 1, 2025). — The St. Thomas University Bobcats men's basketball team opened their 2025–26 home opener in winning fashion, defeating Tougaloo College 86–81 on Saturday afternoon behind a balanced offensive effort and a lights-out shooting display from beyond the arc.

Blake Neverdon led the way for St. Thomas with an explosive 30-point performance, knocking down 7-of-8 three-pointers and shooting 8-for-9 from the field overall. Neverdon also added four rebounds, two assists, and three steals in a near-perfect outing.

 Kaleb Myers was a force in the paint, recording a dominant double-double with 18 points and 14 rebounds while anchoring the Bobcats defensively. Esteban Lluberes chipped in 18 points and six assists, while Adrian Cruz added 12 points, four assists, and two steals.

As a team, the Bobcats shot an efficient 50% (17-of-34) from three-point range and dished out 20 assists on 25 made field goals, showcasing excellent ball movement and spacing in their season debut.

St. Thomas used a hot start from deep to build an early lead, but Tougaloo refused to back down. The Bulldogs' Antonio Patterson poured in 29 points on 9-of-17 shooting, including five made threes, to keep the Bulldogs within striking distance. Despite the Bulldogs' strong effort, the Bobcats' timely perimeter shooting and rebounding advantage (40–29) proved too much to overcome.

The victory marks a strong start for Head Coach Zach Moss and the Bobcats' home campaign who now to improve 2-1. St. Thomas will look to carry their momentum into their next matchup against Indiana Wesleyan as they travel to Marion, Indiana. 

Tip off is set for Thursday, November 6th at 6PM.