VALDOSTA, Ga. – The University of West Florida men's basketball team opened its season at the Gulf South Conference/Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Basketball Challenge, falling to Clark Atlanta 61-51 on Friday afternoon.

The Argos struggled to find the range in the first half, scoring 17 points on 5-of-22 (22%) shooting from the field. UWF went 0-for-8 from 3-point range in the first half. Clark Atlanta also didn't fare well with offensive efficiency in the first half of play. The Panthers were 12-of-30 (40%) from the field but were able to take a 29-17 lead into the break.

Despite being down as many as 22 points in the second half, UWF battled back and cut the lead to just two points with two minutes remaining in the game. Zondrick Garrett's tip in made the score 53-51 and was followed by steal from Eli Brown to give UWF the chance to tie the game or take the lead, but the Argos were unable to capitalize. Clark Atlanta scored the final eight straight points in the game.

Xavier Glenn led the scoring effort for West Florida with 16 points coming off the bench. Garrett posted a double-double with 10 point and 12 rebounds. The grad student also added two steals and two blocks.

Shemani Fuller led Clark Atlanta with 15 points and 12 rebounds.

UWF (0-1) will take on Fort Valley State in the second game of the Basketball Challenge on Saturday at 2 p.m. CT.