URGENT UPDATE: In a thrilling finish, the No. 9 BYU Cougars edged the Dayton Flyers 83-79 on November 24, 2023, clinching the Magic bracket of the ESPN Events Invitational in KISSIMMEE, Florida. This victory marks a significant milestone as BYU improves to 6-1 for the season.
Richie Saunders led the charge for BYU with a season-high 29 points, showcasing impressive shooting skills by sinking 9 of 15 from the field, including 6 of 10 from beyond the arc. He also contributed eight rebounds and three steals, proving instrumental in the Cougars’ victory.
Robert Wright III added 23 points, hitting 9 of 16 shots and providing six assists. The Cougars shot an impressive 51.8% overall and converted 15 of 18 free throws, a performance that exemplified their offensive prowess throughout the game.
The Flyers, now 6-2, were led by Javon Bennett, who scored 22 points and made six 3-pointers, while Bryce Heard contributed 16 points off the bench. Dayton started strong, entering halftime with a 36-30 lead after a stellar first half from Bennett.
As the second half unfolded, Dayton extended their lead with an early 3-pointer from De’Shayne Montgomery. However, a pivotal 15-0 run sparked by back-to-back layups from Saunders and AJ Dybantsa shifted momentum in BYU’s favor, enabling them to take a 45-39 lead just minutes into the half.
The game remained tightly contested, with the Flyers tying the score at 67-all with just four minutes remaining. Both teams exchanged crucial 3-pointers, but a critical four-point play by Saunders gave BYU the edge as they held on to win in the closing minutes.
Next up for BYU is a home game against California Baptist on Wednesday, while Dayton prepares to host East Tennessee State on Tuesday. Fans can expect another exciting week of college basketball as these teams continue to vie for supremacy.
Stay tuned for more updates on the AP Top 25 and the latest in college basketball. This victory not only boosts BYU’s rankings but also sets the stage for an intense season ahead.
