George Washington Colonials defeat Dayton Flyers in NCAAM matchup

Revolutionaries' frontcourt dominance leads to home victory over Flyers

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The George Washington Colonials defeated the Dayton Flyers 79-75 in a close college basketball matchup on Friday, February 27th. The Colonials, led by strong performances from their frontcourt duo of Rafael Castro and Luke Hunger, were able to overcome the Flyers' pressure defense and foul-drawing ability to secure the home victory.

Why it matters

This win keeps the Colonials in the hunt for a top spot in the A-10 conference, while the Flyers missed an opportunity to further cement their position near the top of the standings. The game showcased the Colonials' improved frontcourt depth and scoring ability, which could make them a dangerous team in the postseason.

The details

The Colonials' frontcourt duo of Rafael Castro and Luke Hunger combined for 35 points and 18 rebounds, providing a significant mismatch against the Flyers' interior defense. Dayton's Javon Bennett kept the game close with his 15.9 points per game and 90.7% free-throw shooting, but the Colonials were able to limit the Flyers' turnover-forcing ability and second-chance opportunities to secure the victory.

  • The game was played on Friday, February 27, 2026.
  • The Colonials entered the game with a 16-12 record, while the Flyers were 19-9.

The players

Rafael Castro

A key frontcourt player for the George Washington Colonials, averaging 15.9 points and 8.9 rebounds per game.

Luke Hunger

The Colonials' other starting big man, leading the A-10 in February scoring at 20.7 points per game with 9.1 rebounds.

Javon Bennett

Dayton's leading scorer, averaging 15.9 points, 3.1 assists, and shooting 90.7% from the free-throw line.

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What they’re saying

“We knew we had to match Dayton's intensity and physicality, especially in the paint. Rafael and Luke really stepped up and dominated the interior, which was the key to our victory tonight.”

— Chris Caputo, Head Coach, George Washington Colonials (draftkings.com)

What’s next

The Colonials will look to build on this win as they continue their push for a top spot in the A-10 conference, while the Flyers will aim to rebound in their next game.

The takeaway

This game showcased the Colonials' improved frontcourt depth and scoring ability, which could make them a dangerous team in the postseason. The win also keeps them in the hunt for a top spot in the A-10 conference, highlighting the team's growth and development over the course of the season.