KNIGHTS WIN SEASON OPENER, 87-78, OVER PIERCE

Coming off a disappointing 14-16 record in the 2012-13 season, the Knights (1-0) started their 2013-14 campaign with an 87-78 victory over Los Angeles Pierce (2-2). Freshman Chris Burton led SDCC with 18 points, seven rebounds, and four assists while sophomore Martin Thomas added 16 points, seven rebounds, six assists, and four steals in the opening night win.

The Knights took their first lead three minutes and gradually built it up to a 41-29 halftime lead. The Knights began the second half with a 7-0 run to extend their lead to 19 points, but Pierce did not go down without a fight. The Brahmas, who were led by Terrel Funches with 23 points and 10 rebounds, chipped away at the Knights' lead and found themselves down only three points with 3:25 remaining. 

A jumper by returning sophomore Jovan Griffin and two free throws by freshman Mike Scott put a halt to Pierce's surge and gave the Knights an 80-73 lead. Thomas made 5-of-6 free throws in the final two minutes to seal the victory for the Knights. 

Christian Jones, Caleb Singleton, and Scott scored 10 points a piece. 

The Knights will host Porterville College in the opening game of the Jim Colbert Knights Invitational tournament on Friday, Nov. 15 at 1 p.m.