Wake Forest got out of the gates about as well as they could have, beating an experienced George Washington team soundly tonight, 97-76. More importantly, two lingering questions – defense and Danelius – recieved strong responses.

Wake’s defense was solid: GW committed 25 turnovers, shot 40% from the field, and was held to less than a point per possession, a level regularly breached against the Deacons last season. Vytas Danelius proved he can still convert from inside the arc, making six shots on seven attempts. His only downfall was hoisting four three-point attempts.

It’s only one game, but it’s a more meaningful season-opener than any other elite team will play this week.