Dayton Basketball: A Chance for Redemption Against Saint Louis
The Dayton Flyers are looking for payback as they prepare to host the Saint Louis Billikens at UD Arena on Tuesday at 7 p.m. This rematch comes just 25 days after a humbling 102-71 loss to Saint Louis on January 30th, a game the Flyers are eager to put behind them.
Historically, when the Flyers have suffered a significant defeat – like the 30+ point loss to Cincinnati in 2010 – they haven’t often had a quick opportunity for revenge. That 2010 loss wasn’t avenged until December 2023. This time, however, Dayton gets a second chance much sooner.
What’s at Stake?
Dayton (18-9, 9-5) trails Saint Louis (25-2, 13-1) by four games with only four games remaining. The Billikens, currently ranked 18th in the Associated Press Top 25 poll (as of last week), represent a significant challenge. If Saint Louis maintains their ranking, this will be the first time the Flyers face a Top 25 opponent at UD Arena since 2013 when they hosted No. 14 Butler.
Five Key Things to Know
- Series History: Dayton holds a 44-31 advantage in the all-time series. However, Saint Louis dominated the first matchup this season, and the Flyers are determined to change the narrative on their home court. Coach Anthony Grant acknowledged the team didn’t play their best in the first encounter, stating, “They played awesome. They handled us pretty well.”
- Season Outlook: While Dayton rebounded from a recent slump with three consecutive wins against Davidson, George Mason, and Duquesne, Saint Louis has been consistently strong. They recently defeated Virginia Commonwealth, but also experienced a loss to Rhode Island.
- Recent Drama: The Saint Louis vs. VCU game ended with a benches-clearing fracas, but the Atlantic 10 opted for reprimands and fines rather than player suspensions. The league released a statement deeming the incident regrettable but considering the matter closed.
- Scouting the Billikens: Saint Louis boasts a formidable roster. Robbie Avila, a 6’10” senior center, is a key player to watch, leading the team in points and assists. Amari McCottry and Trey Green also pose significant threats, with Green particularly dangerous from beyond the arc, leading the A-10 in 3-point shooting percentage (46.8%).
- Statistical Edge: Dayton excels at getting to the free-throw line, ranking first in the country in free-throw rate. They convert these opportunities, scoring a significant portion of their points from the line.
Looking Ahead
According to KenPom.com, Dayton has a 29% chance of winning, with a predicted score of 80-74. This game is a Quadrant 1 opportunity for the Flyers, crucial for their NCAA Tournament aspirations. For Saint Louis, it’s a Quad 3 game, but a win would further solidify their position as a top team in the nation.
Don’t miss the action as the Dayton Flyers look to avenge their earlier loss and make a statement against a nationally ranked Saint Louis Billikens team. Tune in to FanDuel Sports Radio: 95.7-FM, 1290-AM.
Source: ESPN
