Dayton, Ohio – The University of Dayton Flyers kicked off the 2026‑27 men’s basketball season with a commanding 89‑58 victory over the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) on Monday night at UD Arena. Freshmen Aiden Derkack and Amael L’Etang led the charge, each posting a double‑double that highlighted the team’s early offensive firepower.
Standout performances
Derkack contributed 21 points and 11 rebounds, becoming the first Flyer freshman to record a double‑double since Chris Wright in 2007. L’Etang was not far behind, adding 20 points and 11 rebounds for his ninth career double‑double. Their combined effort helped the Flyers build a sizable lead early and never look back.
Off the bench, Tristian Ford added 13 points and four assists, while Zaide Lowery chipped in eight points and three steals, providing a balanced attack that kept NJIT on the defensive.
Game flow
Dayton seized control early, establishing a 47‑23 advantage at halftime. The Flyers continued to dominate the second half, extending the lead to 22‑10 early in the first half after a three‑pointer from Landen “Dunk” Joseph. Grant Randall’s alley‑oop further energized the crowd, pushing the lead to 26‑12. By the final buzzer, the Flyers had built a 31‑point margin, a statement win that sets a positive tone for the season.
Looking ahead
The Flyers will host Northern Illinois on Saturday, Nov. 7, with tip‑off scheduled for 7 p.m. WHIO Radio will broadcast the game. The early success against NJIT gives Coach Anthony Grant confidence that his squad is ready to compete at a high level throughout the conference schedule.
With Derkack’s historic freshman double‑double and L’Etang’s continued production, Dayton fans have plenty to be optimistic about as the Flyers aim to climb the Atlantic 10 standings.
Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.
