BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The men's basketball team began their 2020-21 season with a 174-99 loss to NCAA Division I Samford on Wednesday.

The Panthers fell behind early as Samford took a 102-50 halftime lead. Greenville allowed the first 10 points of the game before senior Kameron Vinsel knocked down a three-pointer to give the Panthers their first points of the season.

In the first varsity action of his career, sophomore Jarred Johnson provided 11 of his team-high 21 points in the first half.

Kaidyn Johnson chipped in 17 points to Greenville's effort in his debut, and Kenneth Cooley added 10 points in his first appearance.

Overall, the Panthers shot 30-of-75 with a 16-of-46 three-point attempt effort. They sank 23-of-35 free throws.

Greenville's constant defensive pressure generally forces bundles of turnovers and allows the team to collect numerous steals. However, the Panthers were held to just nine steals, and Samford only committed 18 turnovers.

The Panthers (0-1) travel to Avila in Kansas City, Mo., on Friday for two games in The Negro League Baseball Museum Tip-Off Classic. They face Kansas City at 4 p.m. on Friday before a game against Southeast Missouri State at 4 p.m. on Sunday.