Walter Clayton Jr. scored a team-high 28 points and Tyrese Samuel had a double-double with 20 points and 10 rebounds as the Gators defeated Pitt 86-71 in the NIT season opener Wednesday night.

Clayton was 11-of-17 from the field, including 6-of-8 from three-point range. Samuel was 9-of-11 from the field and contributed three assists, three caps and three steals.

Florida led by five at halftime before Pittsburgh took a 42-41 lead early in the second half. Clayton answered with a three-pointer as Florida went on a 17-5 run to help the Gators take control.

A layup by Samuel with 10 minutes left in the game gave Florida a 13-point lead en route to a comfortable win.

Alex Condon and Zyon Pullin each scored 11 points for Florida. Pullin also contributed eight assists and one turnover.

Pitt got 19 points from Ishmael Leggett, 16 points from Blake Hinson and 10 points and nine rebounds from Zack Austin.

The teams will play again on Friday in New York. Pittsburgh will take on Oregon State, while Florida will challenge No. 13 Baylor.