There are several names in the latest coaching carousel hot-seat talk that everyone knows about. Coaches such as Wes Miller (Cincy), Kim English (Providence), and Bobby Hurley (ASU) are among the names to watch. But one name whose team has been on a downward spiral is Anthony Grant and Dayton.
After a strong non-conference campaign, which included wins over Cincy, Marquette, Georgetown, and Florida State, the Flyers looked to be a strong contender for an at-large spot in the NCAA Tournament. However, the team then went on a four-game losing skid in the A-10, including losses to La Salle, St. Joe’s, Rhode Island, and Saint Louis. Losing to the Billikens is one thing, but giving up 102 points in a blowout is what has upset Flyer fans.
Coming into Tuesday night’s game with St. Bonaventure, it was essentially a must-win game for them. And while there were plenty of fans in the crowd, the student section voiced its displeasure with the Coach, with some having “Fire AG” shirts in the stands.
Can confirm, UD security made these dudes change. https://t.co/WwXN9J2XCC pic.twitter.com/12LiqihFu8
— Sully (@sullymygoodname) February 4, 2026
But Dayton came out strong, taking a 41-30 halftime lead. The Bonnies, which didn’t make a single three-pointer in the first half, responded by finally making shots, going on a run to eventually take the lead late in the game.
In a back-and-forth final couple of minutes, Jordan Derkack was fouled with seconds to go, making both of them to give Dayton a crucial 72-70 victory over the Bonnies. Derkack finished with 18 points off the bench, while Javon Bennett led all scorers with 20 points on the night.
The win pushes the Flyers to 6-4 in the A-10 standings, a half game behind St. Joe’s for the 4th seed and a double-bye in the conference. While an at-large bid is out of the question now, Dayton still has shown the ability to win big games, and in the conference tournament, could have one more run in them.
Jordan Derkack makes 2 of 2 after foul. Dayton leads 72-70 at 2.3. pic.twitter.com/N0uFbScNvy
— David Jablonski (@DavidPJablonski) February 4, 2026
As for Coach Grant, things would’ve gotten ugly for him had they lost a fifth straight game. And for some fans upset, the near second-half collapse may not have changed their minds whatsoever. But for at least a few days, the coach can breathe easy.
Until Friday’s road battle at 3rd-place VCU, a game in which the Flyers will be clear underdogs.