FAIRFAX, Va. — George Mason University (7-6, 2-0 Atlantic 10) defeated the University of Dayton (7-6, 0-2 Atlantic 10), 74-59, at EagleBank Arena, fueled by 23 points off turnovers. The Patriots secured the win by forcing 24 turnovers and recording 15 steals. The 4,123 people in attendance broke the single game attendance record for George Mason women's basketball, adding an extra layer of excitement to the victory.
George Mason opened the quarter with a strong start, highlighted by
Louis Volker's early contributions, scoring a jumper just 33 seconds into play. The team maintained momentum with
Kennedy Harris facilitating a fast-paced offense, leading to a 12-5 advantage by the six-minute mark. Despite a rally from the Flyers, the Green & Gold kept the pressure, with
Jada Brown's jumper in the final 35 seconds securing a narrow 19–17 lead at the end of the first quarter.
The Patriots took control with a strong defensive performance, forcing 10 turnovers in the second quarter. This defensive pressure translated into offensive opportunities, allowing Harris to sink a crucial 3-pointer at 2:38, assisted by
Mary Amoateng. George Mason's scoring was rounded out by Trinity Massenberg's first bucket of the year - a jumper in the paint at 1:17 - giving them a comfortable lead. The quarter closed with
Zahirah Walton's jumper at the buzzer, extending George Mason's advantage to 32–24 over Dayton at halftime.
George Mason shifted momentum early in the third quarter with a 9–0 run, highlighted by a fast-break 3-pointer from Volker at 9:06, assisted by Walton. This stretch extended their lead, and they maintained control with strong defensive plays, including five steals, effectively converting turnovers into points. Walton contributed significantly, adding a three-point play at 3:22 after being fouled on a jumper. The quarter concluded with the Patriots outpacing the Flyers 23–15, bringing the quarter to a close with a score of 55–39 in favor of George Mason.
The Patriots maintained control in the final quarter despite a late push from the Flyers. Walton's offensive efforts, including a crucial tip-in at 9:15 and two free throws at 6:49, helped keep the Green & Gold in the lead. Harris contributed with a jumper at 8:13, and Volker provided a vital assist to Walton at 7:43. Dayton attempted to close the gap, but the Patriots' consistent scoring, highlighted by Walton's late three-pointer with just one second left, secured their victory. The game concluded with George Mason winning 74-59, as they successfully defended their lead throughout the quarter.
PATRIOT POINTS
UP NEXT
The Patriots head to Richmond to take on the VCU Rams on Sunday, December 4 at 12 p.m. on the CBS Sports Network.
