Wright’s first-half surge, dominating defense carry Dayton past Ball State 59-35

Defense leads Dayton past Ball State 59-35

DAYTON, Ohio — Chris Wright scored 10 points and Dayton had its best defensive game of the season in a 59-35 victory over Ball State on Tuesday night.

The Flyers (11-3) held the Cardinals (6-6) to 27.9 percent shooting (12 of 43) from the field — the lowest percentage by an opponent this season.

The Cardinals, who made only 1 of 10 3-point shots, had their worst shooting game of the season.

While it was the fewest points the Flyers allowed this season, it was also one of their lowest scoring outputs in a game marked by long possessions and few second shots.

Dayton shot 45.1 percent (23 of 51) from the field as it extended its homecourt winning streak to 28 games.

Ball State was led by Terrence Watson’s eight points. Jarrod Jones entered the game averaging 15.1 points per game, but was held to just three points on 1-of-8 shooting.