BEAUMONT, Texas -- Josh Nzeakor was perfect from the floor, knocking down seven field goals to total 19 points and helped Lamar to dominate NAIA's Huston-Tillotson 79-59 on Tuesday night.

Lamar celebrated the opening game of the season by scoring 17 unanswered points to start, rolling to a 44-22 halftime advantage. The Rams won the second half 37-35 but it was not enough to catch Lamar.

Nzeakor also grabbed nine rebounds with two blocks. Jordan Hunter contributed 11 points and Mike Kolawole chipped in 10 with seven rebounds and three assists.

Lamar shot 52 percent (28-54) from the field and limited TWU to 20-of-61 shooting (33 percent). The Cardinals also won the rebound battle 45-29.

Alex Doche lead the Rams with 20 points, shooting 4 of 7 from distance. Courtney Julien added 16 points while dishing out five assists.