Box Score Tigerville, S.C. – Erskine opened their 2013-2014 campaign with a 95 to 73 thumping of the University of North Georgia last night in the Peach Belt – Conference Carolinas Challenge hosted by North Greenville University.

Erskine had four players reach double-figures, including a career-high 30 points by sophomore Roderick Perkins (Smyrna, GA, Campbell High School), last year's Conference Carolinas Freshman of the Year.   He also had 9 rebounds, 2 blocks and 3 steals in filling up the stat sheet. 

Senior point guard Mike Gabbard (Erlanger, KY, Boone County High School) anded out 8 assists with 16 points.  Senior post player Chris Gore (Myrtle Beach, SC, Myrtle Beach High School) was a rebound shy of a double-double with 12 points and 9 rebounds while fellow senior sharpshooter Jake Haslam (Lithia, FL, Tampa Preparatory School) added 14 points, 12 coming from long range.

In the first half, Erskine led by as many as 8 points before settling on a four point lead at intermission.  With the Fleet trailing by one midway through the opening period, Perkins sparked the Fleet's 9-0 run with a steal and dunk.  He followed it up with two free throws and a three-point basket.  Haslam capped the run with a steal and a layup.  Erskine led 43 to 39 at halftime.

Erskine opened the second half on a three point basket by Perkins and a layup by Gore off a nice pass by Gabbard.  The Fleet never trailed in the period and gradually built their lead to as many as 28 at one point.  Erskine waltzed to an easy opening night win of 95 to 73.

Erskine will be play Georgia Southwestern University tonight at 5:30 p.m. in their second matchup in the Peach Belt – Conference Carolinas Challenge on the campus of North Greenville University.