Kennesaw State vs. Butler final score: Bulldogs thrash Owls for first victory

All offseason long, a lot of hubbub came from how Butler would respond to losing Chris Holtmann to Ohio State and replacing him with LaVall Jordan.

On Friday night, the Bulldogs finally got a chance to answer. As it turns out, nothing really changed, either. Butler never trailed as they defeated the Kennesaw State Owls 84-62 at Hinkle Fieldhouse.

This marks the sixth straight season opening win for the Bulldogs.

As noted, the game was never particularly close. Butler was out to a 30-8 lead eight minutes into the game and really never looked back.

Kelan Martin led the way with 20 points, his 21st career 20+ point output. Martin also led the way with nine rebounds.

Paul Jorgensen’s 13 points were also a welcome sign for the Bulldogs, who have been anxiously awaiting the transfer’s eligibility.

Freshman Aaron Thompson led the squad with five assists.

For Kennesaw State, James Scott finished with a game-high 26 points.

The Bulldogs face Princeton at home Sunday before heading to Maryland for the Gavitt Games.