Dillard Defeats Loyola in Home Opener

NEW ORLEANS– On October 28, 2025, Dillard University claimed a decisive victory over Loyola University with a final score of 69-54 in a college basketball matchup at Dent Hall in New Orleans, LA. The game saw Dillard (2-0) opening their season with a win, while Loyola (1-1) suffered their first loss.

Dillard's triumph was largely built on a dominant first half, where they outscored Loyola 44-28. The hosts displayed superior shooting and defensive skills, maintaining their lead despite a less efficient offensive performance in the second half. Dillard's shooting accuracy was a key factor, with the team making 42.9% of field goal attempts and a notable 39.1% from beyond the arc.

Key Performances

Dillard's Tyler Wiley was instrumental in their success, contributing 14 points off the bench, thanks to a remarkable 4-5 shooting from three-point range. Devin Lewis also made significant contributions, scoring 13 points with efficient shooting and defensive efforts that included two steals and two blocks.

Despite the loss, Loyola's Zachary Lee stood out with an impressive individual performance. Lee scored 22 points and secured 8 rebounds, showing resilience and determination. However, Loyola struggled with their shooting, managing only 29.6% from the field and a mere 5.3% from three-point range.

In the second half, Loyola made some adjustments and managed a tighter defense, outscoring Dillard 26-25. However, the deficit created in the first half proved too substantial to overcome. Dillard's tactical play, characterized by better ball movement and fewer turnovers, ensured they maintained control despite the pressure.

The game statistics highlighted Dillard's strategic advantage, with the team securing 19 assists against Loyola's 13, demonstrating effective teamwork and ball distribution. Loyola had a slight edge in rebounding, with 43 to Dillard's 32, but their inability to convert these opportunities into points was a significant drawback.

Overall, Dillard's balanced offensive output and robust defensive plays were the defining elements in their victory over Loyola. As the season progresses, both teams will look to build on this performance, with Dillard aiming to sustain their winning momentum and Loyola seeking improvements in their shooting efficiency and overall game execution.

-Bleu Devils-