Grambling State men’s basketball didn’t need a traditional tipoff time to get its season started on the right foot.
The Tigers opened their 2026-27 campaign with an exciting 89-87 victory over Northern Illinois in the Field of 68 Opening Day Marathon on Monday morning, November 2, at the Rock Hill Sports & Event Center in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
The 3 a.m. ET matchup delivered plenty of excitement, with Grambling building an early advantage before holding off a late Northern Illinois rally to secure the two-point win.
Isaiah Miranda Delivers Career Night
The difference was 7-foot-2 senior center Isaiah Miranda, who turned in a career performance.
- 29 points
- 8 rebounds
- 3 blocks
- 10-of-12 shooting from the field
- 4 three-pointers
Miranda’s efficient scoring gave Grambling the offensive spark it needed to withstand the Huskies’ comeback attempt.
Dwayne Pierce also made a significant contribution, finishing with 19 points for the Tigers.
Northern Illinois had five players reach double figures and connected on 14 three-pointers, keeping the pressure on Grambling until the final moments. However, the Tigers found a way to close out the contest.
A New Season Under Patrick Crarey
The victory marks a winning start to head coach Patrick Crarey’s second season at Grambling State.
The Tigers entered the season with a significantly revamped roster featuring 13 newcomers, while Mekhi Fitts and Chancellor Perkins were the two returning players from last year’s squad.
Grambling finished 14-19 overall last season and will look to build on Monday’s opening-night performance as it enters a challenging nonconference schedule.
What’s Next?
Grambling State heads into another challenging road matchup against the Texas Longhorns on November 9.
The Tigers will then travel to Lexington to face Kentucky on November 16.
