18. Dayton Flyers - 18-3 (8-1 A-10)
After ending what was previously the nation’s longest win streak in a road loss to Richmond, the Flyers had a pair of home games to try and start a new win streak. It wasn’t going to be easy, as they took on a pair of teams with offensive potential in GW and St. Bonaventure.
Up first were the Revolutionaries, who ultimately proved to be not much of a challenge since their best player (James Bishop) went for 10 points on 2/12 shooting. Dayton ended up winning 83-61, thanks to 25 points and 12 rebounds from DaRon Holmes, along with 17 points from Nate Santos on 3/4 shooting from deep.
The game against the Bonnies on Friday proved to be much tougher, trailing by as much as seven points in the second half. But a quick run gave Dayton back the lead and they were able to hold on for the 76-71 victory. It was another excellent performance from All-American candidate Holmes, who had 34 points and seven rebounds, helped by 13 points from Enoch Cheeks.
Things are going to get tough for the Flyers, as they go on the road this week. The opponents are St. Joe’s and VCU, two of the more talented teams in the Atlantic 10. Look for the Friday night matchup with VCU, coming off a win over Richmond, to be highly anticipated.