GREENVILLE, N.C. — East Carolina secured a narrow victory over Coastal Carolina with a final score of 63-59, thanks in large part to RJ Felton’s impressive performance, scoring 25 points.

Felton not only showcased his scoring ability but also contributed significantly on the boards, finishing with 11 rebounds for the Pirates, who improved their record to 2-0. In addition, Joran Riley supported the team with 14 points, shooting poorly from the field at 2 for 8 and struggling beyond the arc at 1 for 5, but managed to get to the free-throw line where he converted 9 out of 14 attempts. Riley also added seven rebounds to his tally. Cam Hayes rounded out the scoring with 10 points, going 4 of 10 from the field, but failing to connect on any of his three attempts from three-point range.

On the opposing side, the Chanticleers, now 1-1 this season, were led in scoring by Rasheed Jones, who netted 20 points. Jordan Battle contributed to the scoring effort with 12 points, while Denzel Hines added a double-double featuring 10 points and 12 rebounds.

During the game, Hayes emerged as a key contributor in the first half for East Carolina, putting up eight points, which helped the team take a slight lead of 24-22 at halftime. RJ Felton took charge in the second half, scoring 19 points that propelled the Pirates to their hard-fought victory.