GREENVILLE, N.C. — In a competitive matchup on Saturday, C.J. Walker led the East Carolina Pirates to a 64-55 victory over the South Florida Bulls, scoring 15 points.
Walker’s performance also included eight rebounds and five assists, showcasing his all-around contribution to the team. The Pirates, now standing at 12 wins and 9 losses with a 4-4 record in the American Athletic Conference, saw RJ Felton add 12 points, though he struggled with his shooting, making only 5 of 16 attempts, including 2 of 10 from beyond the three-point line. Another notable player was Joran Riley, who finished the game with 12 points, hitting 5 of 8 shots and 2 of 3 from long range, along with an impressive six rebounds.

The Bulls, currently holding a 10-10 record and 3-4 in conference play, found their top scorer in Kobe Knox, who ended the game with 17 points. De’Ante Green also contributed with 11 points and four assists, while Jimmie Williams pitched in with a solid performance of eight points, eight rebounds, and two steals.

East Carolina managed to take control of the match late in the first half, seizing the lead with just over a minute remaining and maintaining their advantage throughout the second half. They headed into halftime with a narrow 31-28 lead, bolstered by Walker’s eight points. In the second half, the Pirates extended their lead by outscoring the Bulls by six points, with Riley emerging as a key player, scoring a team-high eight points after the half.

Looking ahead, East Carolina is set to face Temple on the road next Saturday, while South Florida will host Rice on Tuesday.