Embry-Riddle opened the 2025–26 season in dominant fashion Thursday night, cruising to an 87–63 victory over Justice College at the Activity Center.
Led by Peter Dress, who poured in a game-high 30 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, the Eagles (1–0) set the tone early and never looked back. Dress was electric from the field, shooting 11-of-18, including 4-of-7 from three-point range, and a perfect 4-of-4 from the free throw line.
Embry-Riddle jumped out to a 43–22 halftime lead, fueled by a balanced offensive attack and stifling defense. The Eagles shot 43.2% in the first half and held Justice to just 35.7% shooting, including 0-of-5 from beyond the arc.
Sophomore guard Noah Gifft added 19 points, hitting 2-of-3 from deep, and contributed 5-of-9 from the line. Isaiah Wong orchestrated the offense with 10 assists, while Matur Dhal anchored the paint with 10 rebounds and 3 blocks.
Justice (0–1) showed signs of life in the second half, scoring 41 points, but Embry-Riddle matched them with 44, maintaining control throughout.
Embry-Riddle dominated the glass, out-rebounding Justice 48–32, and capitalized on turnovers, converting 13 points off giveaways. The Eagles also showcased depth, with 15 bench points and 14 second-chance points.
ERAU will play at the University of Arizona on Monday with a 7pm tipoff at the McKale Center in Tucson for an exhibition game.