The boys in purple and white had a successful night in their 2017 season opener at the University of Portland's Chiles Center on Friday night. Defeating the UC Riverside Highlanders 71-55 in a well fought game, the Portland Pilots looked great as a team on the court. With the student section roaring loud and the proud parents and fans of both teams lining the stands there was not a dull moment that could be accounted for.

Not only did the team have a great night, but Senior Alec Wintering showed off his skills playing a majority of the game for the Pilots. Wintering, averaging 18.3 points per game last season scored a total of 24 points in the season opener with 8 rebounds that had the student section chanting "MVP" in the last few minutes of the game.

However, Wintering, like all great basketball players didn't do it alone. The Pilots other high point scorers of the night were Sophomore guard Jazz Johnson with 17 points and Junior forward Gabe Taylor with 15 points and 7 rebounds respectively.

Should they continue with the determination, and teamwork that the fans saw at the season opener, I predict that it will be a great season for the Portland Pilots mens basketball team. Whether or not this new style of success that was viewed on the court is do to a newly bonded team or new head coach, former Portland Trailblazer Terry Porter, the Pilots and their fans are in for a pleasant season.