Host Georgia Tech turned in a strong defensive effort and gave coach Brian Gregory a victorious debut, beating Florida A&M 92-59.

Gregory took over the rebuilding ACC squad after eight years at Dayton that included two NCAA tournament berths. The Jackets held the Rattlers to 38 percent shooting in defeating Florida A&M for the seventh straight time.

Tech led 43-29 after a half in which outrebounded the Rattlers 26-10 and contested every shot. Brandon Reed led the Jackets with 16 points on 6-of-8 shooting. Mfon Udofia scored 15 points and Daniel Miller 12.

The Jackets won without their leading returning scorer, Glen Rice Jr. He was suspended three games for an undisclosed violation of team rules.

The game was played at Gwinnett Arena in suburban Atlanta because the Jackets’ on-campus arena is under construction.

Avery Moore led the Rattlers with 15 points.