Preview: Xavier (La.) at Dillard Set for Monday Showdown

NEW ORLEANS (Interstat) — A key NAIA men’s basketball matchup in the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference is set for Monday night as the Dillard Bleu Devils host the Xavier (La.) Gold Rush.

The Gold Rush (11-6) enter with a slight edge in the standings and momentum from a decisive 101-66 victory over Southwest on Thursday. Xavier’s offense was firing, led by Leon Williams’ 22 points in just 20 minutes. Williams, averaging 17 points over his last three games, is a key player to watch for Xavier.

Dillard (9-7) is also riding a wave of confidence after a 92-71 win against Wiley (TX) on Saturday. The Bleu Devils have won three straight, fueled by the consistent play of Devin Lewis. Lewis has scored in double figures in four consecutive games, including a 16-point, 5-rebound, 3-block performance in the win over Wiley.

This contest is a rematch from Nov. 8, 2025, when Xavier handled Dillard 88-68 at home. The Gold Rush will look to replicate that defensive success against a surging Dillard squad.

For Xavier, supporting Williams will be crucial. Nasir DeGruy added 24 points in the last outing, and Wayne Randall-Bashay contributed 8 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Dillard counters with a balanced attack; alongside Lewis, Miles Williams (12 points, 7 rebounds vs. Wiley) and Shane Davis (6 rebounds, 5 assists) provide significant production.

The game tips off Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, at Dillard’s home court. Both teams are jockeying for conference position, with Xavier aiming to sweep the season series and Dillard seeking to extend its win streak and avenge its earlier loss.