SLU Billikens Overcome Grand Canyon in Second-Half Surge
The Saint Louis University Billikens delivered a powerful second-half performance, cruising to a 78-64 victory over Grand Canyon University on Saturday night at Chaifetz Arena. This win marks a significant step for SLU, improving their record to 3-0 and showcasing their ability to handle tough competition early in the season.
Second-Half Explosion Seals the Deal for SLU
After Grand Canyon cut the Billikens’ lead to a mere two points, 39-37, early in the second half, coach Josh Schertz swiftly called a timeout. Whatever was said in that huddle clearly ignited a spark, as SLU immediately launched into an impressive 18-4 run. This decisive burst not only re-established their dominance but effectively blew the game open, with the Billikens eventually leading by as many as 24 points before securing the 78-64 win.
Key Players Step Up Amidst Challenges
Amari McCottry’s Offensive Masterclass
Guard Amari McCottry proved to be a pivotal force for the Billikens, taking control of the game with a career-high 20 points. Many of his crucial scores came from aggressive drives to the rim, often culminating in his signature extended-arm layups. His efficiency was notable, hitting 8 of 13 shots from the field, demonstrating his impact especially when the team needed a scoring boost.
Dion Brown’s Rebounding Dominance and Robbie Avila’s Consistent Play
Despite being one of the shorter players on the court at 6-foot-3, Dion Brown delivered an exceptional performance on the boards, grabbing an impressive 15 rebounds. While contributing 6 points, Brown’s tenacity was undeniable, though he did foul out of the game. Center Robbie Avila added a solid 14 points, continuing his reliable offensive presence. Interestingly, this was the first time this season that the 3-0 Billikens failed to reach the 80-point mark, indicating the defensive effort required against Grand Canyon.
Navigating Through Early Foul Hurdles
The game presented early season challenges, particularly with foul trouble impacting key players. Quentin Jones quickly accumulated two fouls in the first half, limiting him to just over eight minutes of play. Kellen Thames also picked up two first-half fouls. Even Dion Brown, while dominating rebounds, spent a significant 16 minutes and 18 seconds on the court managing his three fouls. The Billikens demonstrated their ability to adapt and work around these limitations, a testament to their improved depth compared to last season.
Looking Ahead: The Homestand Finale
The Billikens will conclude their season-opening five-game homestand on Friday against Purdue Fort Wayne. This upcoming match presents another opportunity for SLU to refine their strategies and maintain their undefeated start as they continue to build momentum early in the season. Fans can expect an energized performance as the team aims to cap off a successful opening stretch at Chaifetz Arena.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Game
- What was the final score of the SLU vs. Grand Canyon game?
The St. Louis University Billikens defeated Grand Canyon University 78-64. - When did the game take place?
The game was played on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Chaifetz Arena. - Who were the top scorers for SLU?
Amari McCottry led with 20 points, followed by Robbie Avila with 14 points. - What was a major turning point in the game?
A timeout called by Coach Josh Schertz in the second half, after Grand Canyon cut the lead to two, sparked an 18-4 run for SLU. - What is the Billikens’ current record?
After this victory, the SLU Billikens are now 3-0 for the season.
This early-season triumph against a formidable opponent underscores the St. Louis University Billikens’ growth and resilience, providing a promising glimpse into their potential for a successful college basketball season.
SLU Billikens Second Half Surge Beats Grand Canyon
