Marquette vs Dayton: Non-Conference Clash Preview

Intense opening tip between Marquette and Dayton - Image from https://tse4.mm.bing.net/th/id/OIP.o7YBYI-PRIPTWE3SL7bIzAHaEK?pid=Api

A Midweek Showdown in Milwaukee

The Marquette Golden Eagles (3-2) and Dayton Flyers (3-1) will face off in a highly anticipated non-conference matchup on Wednesday, November 19, at 6:30 p.m. CT in Milwaukee's Fiserv Forum. This game concludes a home-and-home series between the programs and serves as a crucial test for both teams as they prepare for conference play.

Marquette's Hot Start

The Golden Eagles are riding the momentum of a strong start to their 2025-26 season. Senior guard Chase Ross has been the standout performer, averaging 20.8 points per game while shooting 50.8% from the field. His career-high 31-point outing against Maryland showcased his elevated role as the team's primary offensive option. Ross' development has been remarkable, nearly doubling his scoring output from last season while playing fewer minutes (28.1 mpg vs 30.3 mpg).

Other key contributors include junior guard Zaide Lowery, whose scoring has jumped from 4.1 to 10.4 PPG with increased playing time, and sophomore forward Caedin Hamilton, who has transitioned from a reserve (6.3 mpg) to a starter averaging 18.2 minutes.

Dayton's Balanced Attack

The Flyers come into the game after a challenging 12-point loss at Cincinnati but have shown resilience with three home victories. Led by junior guard Javon Bennett (18.3 PPG) and 7'1" French freshman Amael L'Etang (15.0 PPG, 7.5 RPG), Dayton presents a formidable frontcourt challenge. L'Etang has been particularly dominant since moving to the starting lineup in January 2025, improving his production to 15.0 points and 7.5 rebounds per game this season.

Dayton's Javon Bennett leading the Flyers' offense - Image from https://duckduckgo.com/?origin=funnel_home_website&t=h_&q=Dayton+Flyers+Javon+Bennett+driving+to+basket&ia=images&iax=images&iai=https%3A%2F%2Fc8.alamy.com%2Fcomp%2F2SC6K8A%2Fst-louis-mo-january-31-saint-louis-guard-gibson-jimerson-24-drives-t-the-basket-as-dayton-guard-javon-bennett-0-defends-during-an-atlantic-10-conference-basketball-game-between-the-dayton-flyers-and-the-saint-louis-billikens-on-january-31-2025-at-chaifetz-arena-st-louis-mo-photo-by-keith-gilletticon-sportswire-icon-sportswire-via-ap-images-2SC6K8A.jpg

Historical Context and Coaching Connections

This matchup marks the continuation of a series dating back to the 1966-67 season. Dayton secured a 71-63 victory at UD Arena last season, with Marquette's Chase Ross leading all scorers with 19 points. Interestingly, Marquette head coach Shaka Smart began his coaching career at Dayton, serving as director of basketball operations under Oliver Purnell from 2001-03. During that tenure, the Flyers won the 2003 Atlantic 10 Championship.

Keys to the Game

Both teams will rely on their star players. Marquette needs Ross to maintain his offensive efficiency while the supporting cast must improve consistency. Dayton's success hinges on L'Etang's ability to control the paint and Bennett's scoring alongside Jordan Derkack's playmaking (4.0 APG). The game could come down to which team executes better in critical moments.

Where to Watch

The game will be broadcast nationally on truTV with Brian Anderson (play-by-play), Greg Anthony (analyst), and Lauren Jbara (reporter) calling the action. Tip-off is set for 6:30 p.m. CT at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee.

What's Next

Following this matchup, Marquette concludes its homestand against Central Michigan on November 22, while Dayton prepares for Atlantic 10 conference play.