HUNTSVILLE, Texas (AP) - Kai Mitchell had 18 points and eight rebounds as Sam Houston State easily beat NAIA's Paul Quinn 95-57 in the season opener on Tuesday night.

Zach Nutall had 15 points with Mark Tikhonenko adding 14. Dainan Swoope had 11 points for the hosts.

Th Bearkats held a slim 42-39 lead at the break but took control in the second half, winning that period 53-18.

Mateo Eschelk had 24 points for the Tigers. Joshua Cruz added 11 points. DeAngelo Streeter had six assists.

Sam Houston State takes on Mississippi St. on the road on Friday.

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