Marquette Defeats Albany 79-55 in Season Opener, Sean Jones Returns to Court
MILWAUKEE – The Marquette Golden Eagles began their 2025-26 basketball season with a decisive 79-55 victory over the Albany Great Danes Monday night at Fiserv Forum. The game marked the highly anticipated return of guard Sean Jones to the court after a nearly 22-month recovery from a knee injury.
Marquette showcased its offensive capabilities despite early-game jitters typical of season openers, ultimately proving too strong for Albany. The win provides a positive start for Coach Shaka Smart’s team as they navigate a season filled with questions about filling key roles and integrating returning players like Jones. The Golden Eagles are favored to contend in the Big East,and this game offered a first glimpse of their potential.
The probable starting lineup of sean Jones, Chase Ross, zaide Lowery, Ben Gold, and Caedin Hamilton took the floor for Marquette. Despite a slow start with numerous fouls and missed shots, the Golden eagles gradually established control, leading by a comfortable margin at halftime and extending their advantage throughout the second half.
BetMGM.com had Marquette as a 24.5-point favorite, and the team covered that spread, finishing with a 24-point win. The over-under was set at 149.5, and the teams combined for 134 points.
Jeff Levering and Tre Demps provided commentary for the ESPN+ broadcast.
Fans can stream future games on ESPN+, requiring a subscription.