MIAMI —  FIU's men's basketball program defeated New Mexico State in its Conference USA (CUSA) home opener on Thursday evening in front of a packed house at the Ocean Bank Convocation Center. 

The Panthers (6-11, 1-1 CUSA) started out the game with four straight made three-pointers and made a total of 10 triples in the opening frame, leading 38-30 at the break. Trailing by as many as 17 points early in the second half, NMSU (7-10, 1-1 CUSA) clawed back within two with just four minutes remaining. 

FIU, which led wire-to-wire, regained control with some timely free throws down the stretch to secure the 77-67 victory, its first in CUSA play and second in-a-row at home. Dashon Gittens scored 17 points on 11-for-12 shooting from the free throw line, making several clutch free throws to keep the Aggies from completing their comeback bid. 

The Panthers' sharpshooting, which totaled 13 made three-pointers in the contest, was led by Javaunte Hawkins and Jaidon Lipscomb. Hawkins finished with a game-high 20 points, making 5-of-6 attempts from distance. Lipscomb had nine points, converting all three of his triples in the first half. 

Arturo Dean was also in double-digits with 11 points, including a key layup late to seal the game for FIU. Dean also led the Panthers with six rebounds and five assists, adding one steal.

FIU's 13 threes made were the second-most this season, trailing only its 19 threes made against Trinity (FL). All six of FIU's wins have featured the Panthers scoring at least 74 points or more. 

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The Panthers host UTEP on Saturday, Jan. 13 at 6 p.m. ET inside the Ocean Bank Convocation Center.