Charlotte, NC - Rickey Porter led all scorers with 25 points as the Johnson & Wales men's basketball team won their home opener against Piedmont International University 87-77 on Tuesday.

Porter connected on 10-of-15 from the floor to pace the Wildcats (2-1) over their NCCAA opponents, including a crucial three-point play in the final minute to put the game out of reach.

Joshua Cohen and Nicholas Crawford added 16 and 15 points, respectively, for Johnson & Wales while Brandon Cole chipped in with 10 points off the bench.

Justin Valentine led Piedmont International (0-2) with 20 points on the night.

The Wildcats held a 35-24 advantage on the boards throughout the game, with Porter and Cole each finishing with eight rebounds.

Johnson & Wales will return to action on Friday as part of the Wildcat Tip-Off when they host Christendom at 9:00 p.m.