The Dayton Flyers split their non-conference schedule. After the 7-7 start that included facing (and coming up considerably short) UConn, Shauna Green’s club has embarked on a seven game win streak-all in conference play. The Flyers sit on top of the Atlantic Ten at 7-0.
For Dayton, success is predicated on defense. They play at a brisk 69 possession per game tempo. The offensive efficiency checks in at 94 while the defense is 85. That gives them a healthy +9 in efficiency margin.
The offensive rebounding percentage is a +5 (34 to 29%) of their opponents) in their favor as well. They will not force a lot of turnovers as the defensive TO rate is 20%-a respectable figure but not outstanding as they are 138 out of 351 DI teams in that category.
The shooting percentages are as follows:
Dayton Opponents
2 pt 40 40 (34th in D I)
3 pt 34 32
From this we can ascertain, Dayton can be susceptible to a perimeter shot while being extremely tough to score on inside the arc, especially in the paint. That was evident in their 48-44 victory over defending conference champion Fordham on Sunday. In that game, Bre Cavanaugh hit for 21 points, a number of them outside, in rallying the Rams from a double digit deficit. Dayton was able to regroup and close out a defensive minded battle.
Individually, Dayton is led by a trio of guards. Erin Wheeler averages 13.4 points per game while Jayla Scaife contributes 12.3 and Shakeela Fowler 8.9. The trio are the core of the balanced attack as combined they use (the actual metric is ‘usage’) 74% of the Flyer possessions.
They are in the driver’s seat at this point. But not completely in the clear as there is competition. VCU, hosting Fordham tonight is also 6-0. Both those teams will be in the hunt for conference honors in march. Davidson and Saint Louis are also a pair to keep an eye on. In Dayton’s favor is the previously mentioned defense. Another factor is following the preliminary round, the tournament site moves to where else, UD Arena. The home floor does not guarantee a victory. It’s an advantage coach Green will gladly take just the same.