RICHMOND, Ind. - The University of Saint Francis (Ind.) men's basketball team opened its 2025-2026 campaign on the road on October 28, falling 85–72 to Indiana University East.

After a closely contested opening 10 minutes, Indiana East took the lead and extended it to 11 points, with a score of 28-17. The Cougars struggled to cut the deficit, and the Red Wolves went into halftime with a 49-32 advantage.

Despite a slow start, the Cougars had a strong performance in the second half, outscoring the Red Wolves 40-36. However, SF's rally fell short as Indiana East held on to win Tuesday night's opener.

Saint Francis shot 37.9% from the field and 76% from the free-throw line, while Indiana East countered with 47.3% shooting overall. The Red Wolves capitalized on second-chance opportunities and bench production, outscoring the Cougars 17–16 in second-chance points and 37–13 off the bench.

The Cougars found success inside, scoring 40 points in the paint and pulling down 42 rebounds. Senior forward Karson Rogers led Saint Francis with a double-double, posting 20 rebounds and 18 points. Marr Avance added 19 points and three assists, while Jevon Lewis chipped in 15 points and six assists. RJ Moore contributed 13 points, seven rebounds and three blocks.

Up next, Saint Francis (0-1) will travel to Dubuque, Iowa, to compete in the Clarke Classic, hosted by Clarke University on October 31-November 1.

Founded in 1890 in the Catholic Franciscan tradition, the University of Saint Francis offers more than 60 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs through the College of Health Sciences and the College of Arts, Sciences, and Business. In addition to its traditional programs, Saint Francis designs focused curricula for working adults in Fort Wayne, Crown Point, Lafayette and online. Saint Francis Downtown houses the music technology program while offering enhanced internship and networking opportunities for students. The University of Saint Francis, recognized as an NAIA Five-Star Champion of Character institution, has 21 athletic programs boasting two individual and four team NAIA national championships. More than 1,900 students from a broad geographic region attend Saint Francis.