Xavier (LA) Triumphs over Dillard in a Nail-Biting Finish

NEW ORLEANS– In a thrilling contest on February 18, 2025, at New Orleans, Xavier University of Louisiana edged past Dillard University with a narrow 66-63 victory. The matchup between these rivals was intense, captivating a crowd of 2,312 attendees.

Xavier came out strong, establishing a commanding presence in the first half. They led Dillard 29-19, demonstrating a solid defensive strategy and effective shooting. Their execution from beyond the arc was particularly noteworthy, with the team making 50% of their three-point attempts.

Despite trailing by 10 points at halftime, Dillard made a valiant effort to regain control in the second half. They scored 44 points compared to Xavier's 37, showcasing a resilience that kept the game competitive until the final seconds. Dillard's Tory Cargo led the charge, contributing 25 points, shooting an impressive 55.6% from the field.

For Xavier, Lance Williams was a standout performer, scoring 15 points and contributing significantly on both ends of the court. James Weathers was instrumental in orchestrating the offense, dishing out 7 assists alongside his 6 points and 5 rebounds. Jathen Ross provided a crucial boost off the bench, scoring 13 points with an efficient 55.6% shooting percentage.

Dillard, despite a strong performance in the second half, struggled with their shooting accuracy overall, hitting 34.8% from the field. They managed to keep the game close, largely due to their impressive free-throw shooting at 80.0%.

Xavier's shooting efficiency was a critical factor in their victory, with the team shooting 42.6% from the field overall and a remarkable 50% from three-point range. In contrast, Dillard's shooting woes, particularly from beyond the arc at 31.3%, hindered their comeback efforts. Xavier also out-rebounded Dillard 42-38, which played a significant role in their win.

The game concluded with both teams receiving technical fouls—Christopher Landers for Dillard and Omarion Bodrick for Xavier—adding a layer of tension to the already competitive atmosphere. Ultimately, Xavier's balanced attack and defensive tenacity earned them a well-deserved victory, improving their record to 20-7, while Dillard fell to 17-9.

This matchup was a testament to the competitive spirit and skillful play of both teams, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their next encounter.

-Bleu Devil-