VISALIA, Calif. (Interstat) — The Fullerton Hornets opened their season with a dominant 77-53 victory over the Sequoias Giants in a California Community College men’s basketball game Saturday.

Fullerton established control early, erupting for 42 points in the first quarter while holding Sequoias to 21. The Hornets never looked back, adding 35 more points in the second quarter to secure the convincing win. The Giants managed 32 points after halftime but could not overcome the massive early deficit.

The Hornets’ offensive efficiency was the story of the game. Fullerton scored 77 points on just 70 possessions, resulting in an impressive offensive rating of 110.0. In stark contrast, Sequoias was hampered by poor efficiency, managing only 53 points on 75 possessions for an offensive rating of 70.9.

Fullerton’s shooting was superior across the board. The Hornets connected on 27 of 48 field goal attempts, a 56.3 percent clip, and were particularly effective from beyond the arc, hitting 9 of 19 three-point attempts. They also capitalized at the free-throw line, making 14 of 19. The Giants struggled offensively, shooting 22 of 60 from the floor, a 36.7 percent rate, and made only 5 of 16 from three-point range. Sequoias also left points at the line, converting just 4 of 10 free throws.

Brayden Smith led the Hornets with a double-double, scoring 16 points and grabbing 10 rebounds in 25 minutes of action. Donovan Pitts provided a game-high 18 points, while Jaqari Miles added 14. Trey Thompson contributed 12 points to a balanced Fullerton scoring attack.

For the Giants, Kareem Barnett was the primary offensive threat, finishing with 13 points. Mason Dorsey and Jayden Abuyen each chipped in 10 points in the losing effort.

Despite the lopsided score, the Giants won the turnover battle, committing 17 to Fullerton’s 18. Sequoias also tallied more assists and steals, with nine in each category. However, their inability to convert possessions into points proved decisive.

With the win, Fullerton begins its season 1-0. Sequoias starts 0-1.

Fullerton’s next game is at home against West Valley on Thursday, Nov. 6. Sequoias will look to rebound on the road against Allan Hancock on Friday, Nov. 7.