Wake Forest Routs Maryland Eastern Shore 83-62
Freshman Gavin Placide scored 20 points as Wake Forest opened its season with a convincing win over Maryland Eastern Shore.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Basketball
Wake Forest defeated Maryland Eastern Shore 83-62 in its season opener. Freshman Gavin Placide led the Demon Deacons with 20 points on 8-for-11 shooting.
Why it matters
The win gives Wake Forest a strong start to the season and offers an early look at a promising freshman contributor. It also marks the opening result that will shape early expectations for the team in Winston-Salem.
Wake Forest shot 7-for-23 from three-point range, while Placide shot 8-for-11 from the field. The Demon Deacons outscored Maryland Eastern Shore 31 points off turnovers and recorded 15 assists on 30 made shots.
The players
Gavin Placide
Placide is a freshman guard for Wake Forest whose 20-point performance highlighted the season opener.
The details
Wake Forest trailed Maryland Eastern Shore's run at the end of the first half, which the Hawks closed on a 12-0 burst, before taking a 40-33 halftime lead. The Demon Deacons pulled away in the second half with a 20-0 run, and Placide also contributed seven rebounds, three steals, two blocks and two assists.
Timeline
November 2, 2026: Wake Forest opens its season against Maryland Eastern Shore.
Season Trajectory
The season opener sets the early tone for Wake Forest's campaign. A convincing start against a non-conference opponent gives the program its first measure of depth and scoring balance.
Placide's efficient scoring and rebounding make him a player to watch in early fantasy and roster considerations. Fans can track how his role develops as Wake Forest's rotation takes shape.
The takeaway
An efficient start from a freshman can change early rotation decisions. Watching how Wake Forest builds on its second-half scoring will show whether this opener was a one-time surge or a sign of consistency.
Further reading
Follow more coverage in our Basketball section.
