Richard Howell scored a career-high 25 points as host N.C. State beat Morehead State 91-61.

Howell led an impressive attack that included 19 points from DeShawn Painter and 18 from Scott Wood, who nailed five 3-pointers in the first half. Lorenzo Brown dished out six assists as the Wolfpack shot 61.1 percent (33 of 54) for the game.

Coach Mark Gottfried is off to a 2-0 start with N.C. State, which led 48-30 at halftime.

The Eagles, who are defending Ohio Valley Conference champs, dropped their season opener despite 14 points from Terrance Hill.

N.C. State was without sophomore standout C.J. Leslie, who sat out his second of three games for receiving improper benefits.