Duquesne scored the first 18 points and went on to beat La Roche, 95-48, in an exhibition game last night at the Palumbo Center.

Six players scored in double figures for the Dukes, led by Damian Saunders' 17.

The Dukes held Division III La Roche to one field goal in the first 14:37 and led, 35-4, and 55-20 at halftime.

Two Duquesne players did not take part in the game. B.J. Monteiro served the first game of a two-game suspension for violation of team rules, and Morakinyo Williams, a 7-foot transfer from, did not dress because he had a minor medical procedure.

Isiah Thomas makes his college head coaching debut at Florida International tomorrow night. He certainly didn't go looking for a sure win. FIU is on the road at Chapel Hill to face defending national champion North Carolina. Florida International hopes Thomas can turn around a program that has had nine consecutive losing seasons. ... Tomorrow night could also be big for Syracuse coach Jim Boehem, who goes for career win No. 800 in the Orange's opener vs. Albany. Boeheim is entering his 34th season as coach at Syracuse.

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