East Carolina opens the 2025-26 basketball season against Georgia Southern in Williams Arena at Minges Coliseum on Tuesday at 7 p.m. (ESPN+).

The Pirates are coming off a 19-14 season, but lost primary scorers R.J. Felton, who averaged 18.8 points, and C.J. Walker (16.7).

Jordan Riley (14.5) is the top returning scorer for ECU.

Pirates coach Mike Schwartz put a premium on recruiting size and perimeter shooting.

Giovanni Emejuru. a 6-10 transfer George Mason, will bolster the inside game. Guard  Corey Caulker averaged 13 points at Eastern Florida State Junior College last season.

A number of returning players could see expanded roles  for ECU and several additions have potential to favorably impact the rotation.

Georgia Southern was 9-24 last season. The Eagles have three returning starters.