The River Pilots defense held home-standing Toronto to single digit scoring in the opening three quarters, as sophomore big-man Ty Long hit a game-high 23-points in River’s season-opener inside the Red Knights Gymnasium Dec. 12.

After holding a slim 10-8 lead after one period of play that was extended to 21-12 at the break, the red-hot Pilots outscored the home team 18-8 in the third quarter to blow the game open, and go on to defeat Toronto, 51-32.

Long also grabbed 5-rebounds, while classmate Brody Lollathin stuffed the stat-sheet with 5-baskets, 7-rebounds, 6-assists and hi-jacked 5-steals to pace the young Pilots.

In addition, Pilot sophomore River Thompson netted 10-points , including a pair of long 3-balls and pulled down 8-rebounds, while freshman Kabel Isaly swished a pair of 2-pointers. Junior Austin Creamer knocked down 3-free throws and junior Brody Longwell netted one.

High scorer for the Red Knights was Jay Hanlin with 9-points.