ST. LOUIS, Mo. – Carroll men's basketball opened its 2025-26 season with a hard-fought battle against nationally-ranked WashU on Friday night, ultimately falling 90-78 at the WashU Field House.

Carroll (0-1) came out strong, trading blows with the Bears throughout the first half. The Pioneers led by as many as five points midway through the opening period after a Lamar Smith layup and a Jacob Naber bucket inside. #5 WashU responded late in the half with a 9-0 run to take control, heading into the break with a 36-27 advantage.

The second half saw Carroll fight back behind senior guard Michael McNabb, who scored 15 of his team-high 22 points after halftime. The Pioneers cut the deficit to two at 61-59 with just under nine minutes remaining following a McNabb layup and a Lucas Parker three-pointer. However, WashU answered with an 11-0 run over the next four minutes to push the lead to double digits, and Carroll couldn't recover.

Carroll shot 41.7 percent (30-72) from the field and 22.7 percent (5-22) from three-point range, while converting 68.4 percent (13-19) at the free-throw line. McNabb led the way with 22 points, three rebounds, and three steals. Naber added 18 points and six boards, and Smith chipped in 20 points and five rebounds. Parker hit two threes and finished with six points off the bench.

WashU (1-0) shot 47.1 percent (32-68) overall, including 33.3 percent (8-24) from beyond the arc, and made 81.8 percent (18-22) of its free throws. Ryan Cohen and Will Grudzinski combined for 24 points and seven assists, while Connor May posted a double-double with 18 points and nine rebounds.

All in all, this was a very positive start for a Carroll team with lots of new faces as they will continue to build chemistry as the season progresses. The Pioneers will look to bounce back on Wednesday when they host Beloit at Van Male Field House. Tip-off is scheduled for 7pm.