PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. - The Plattsburgh State men's basketball team opened its 2009-10 campaign at home with a rousing 103-81 defeat of non-conference opponent Lyndon State. The Cardinals start the year with a 1-0 record, while the Hornets drop to 0-1.

The Cardinals held a 52-35 advantage at the half, and led the second 51-46.

Steve Thomas led the scoring charge for the Cardinals with 24 points for the day, 14 of which came in the second half. Chris Ruiz posted 16 points for the Cardinals, while Errol Daniyan and Carl Munnerlyn contributed 13. RJ Ponesse pulled down a game-high 10 rebounds, while Munnerlyn recorded six assists. Steve Thomas nabbed three steals for the Cardinals.

For the Hornets, Jason Gray led the charge with a double-double consisting of 16 points and 12 boards. Meanwhile, Avery King posted 15 points and dished out a team-high four assists.

Next up, Plattsburgh travels to Chicopee, Mass. to take on the Blazers from Elms College. Game time is set for 7 p.m. on Wednesday, November 18.