NORTH MIAMI, Fla. (Oct. 31, 2025) — Florida National men's basketball (1-0) claimed a victory in its season opener against the Baptist University of Florida Eagles (0-2) at the Skinner Classic. FNU begins a season 1-0 for the first time since 2021-22 behind a monster 34-point, 10-rebound performance by Mekhi Hudson-Dillard.

FNU opened its first-ever game against the Eagles, locked in a tight battle for most of the period. FNU trailed 46-42 at the break despite a made three from Hudson-Dillard putting FNU ahead 28-25 midway. FNU was leading 39-35 on a pair of made free throws by newcomer Houston Culpepper, but soon found itself in a tied game on a layup by Eagle Omari Henry. 

BUF's Donte Hubert-Bonner and Sutton Solomon had ten points in the half, and the Eagles went on a 7-3 run to end the frame. FNU was very efficient on the court, posting a shooting percentage of 59.3% and knocking down three three-pointers. 

In the second half, the Conquistadors pulled away thanks to 21 second-half points from Hudson-Dillard. Sophomore Omar Baqai was also a big help off the bench with eight points on 3-7 shooting from the floor. FNU's bench was electric with 56 of their 100 points in the game, and the Conquistadors' ability to generate second-chance points helped put them in the driver's seat late. Notably, Florida National recorded 24 on second-chance opportunities while allowing just nine for the Eagles. 

FNU's presence on the glass was undeniable, as the Conquistadors outrebounded the Eagles 30-16 in the second. Baqai and Culpepper each had 14, while FNU had five different players in double figures.

Ronald Fernandez claimed the Conquistadors' second double-double in his return to the court, posting 10 boards and 10 points. Hasmar Francois went to work for a team-high five assists to go along with 12 points in 25 minutes. 

Up Next: Men's basketball is at Florida International University for a 7 p.m. exhibition game on Nov. 3.