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Xavier Falls in Overtime Thriller Against No. 11 UConn
By
Musketeer Madness,
12/19/2024
In a dramatic BIG EAST opener at the XL Center in Hartford, Xavier pushed No. 11 UConn to the limit before falling 94-89 in overtime. The loss drops the Musketeers to 8-4 overall and 0-1 in conference play, while the Huskies improve to 9-3 and 1-0 in the BIG EAST.
Xavier overcame a 10-point first-half deficit with a spirited 12-0 run over six minutes, fueled by Ryan Conwell’s early offensive spark. The Musketeers entered halftime clinging to a narrow 30-29 lead. However, UConn responded after the break with a 9-4 surge to regain momentum, only to see Xavier battle back with a series of timely three-pointers.
The second half featured standout performances from Dante Maddox Jr., who caught fire with five three-pointers after halftime, and Dayvion McKnight, who added 12 of his 18 points in the final 20 minutes. Maddox’s late free throws forced the game into overtime at 78-78, showcasing the Musketeers’ resilience.
In the extra period, UConn capitalized on their depth and rebounding, outscoring Xavier 16-11. A pivotal three-pointer from Alex Karaban early in overtime set the tone, and UConn maintained control, aided by key free throws from Solo Ball. Despite a valiant effort, the Musketeers couldn’t overcome the Huskies’ size advantage on the boards.
Ryan Conwell delivered a career-high 23 points, including 12 in the first half, while Maddox Jr. tallied a season-high 22 points, leading the Musketeers with four rebounds. Marcus Foster contributed 15 points, highlighted by clutch perimeter shooting, while McKnight filled the stat sheet with 18 points, four rebounds, and three assists.
Xavier’s shooting efficiency—50% from the field and 54.2% from beyond the arc—kept them competitive against UConn, who shot 47.8% overall. However, the Huskies’ dominance on the glass, with a 35-27 rebounding advantage and 13 second-chance points, proved decisive.
The Musketeers return to action on Saturday, December 21, hosting another ranked opponent, No. 9 Marquette, at Cintas Center. Tipoff is set for Noon, as Xavier looks to bounce back in front of its home crowd.
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