A nightmare of a start did in the Tompkins Cortland Community College men's basketball team in the Mid-State Athletic Conference opener Tuesday as the Panthers lost to Jefferson Community College by a final score of 86-63. The Panthers drop to 3-4 overall and 3-3 in Region III games while Jefferson improves to 3-5 overall and 2-4 in region.

After the teams traded baskets to open play, Jefferson went on a 19-0 run to lead 21-2. The margin continued to grow the rest of the half, with the Cannoneers taking a 54-22 lead into the break. The deficit was too much to overcome as Jefferson was never threatened the rest of the way.

Jaisym Smith (Roosevelt/Roosevelt H.S.) was the lone Panther to score in double figures, netting 17 points while grabbing 14 rebounds. Bakary Magas (Harlem/Heritage H.S.) had 11 rebounds while scoring 7 points. Tahleek Weekes (South Queens/Construction H.S.) added 9 points and 6 rebounds.

The Panthers play at Mohawk Valley Community College Saturday.