Buccaneers, Bleu Devils Set for Quick Rematch

NEW ORLEANS (Interstat) — The Dillard Bleu Devils will look for a swift repeat performance when they host the University of the Virgin Islands Buccaneers in a men’s NAIA basketball game Monday night.

The teams just met Sunday, with Dillard securing an 86-81 home victory. Monday’s contest at Dent Hall will complete the rare back-to-back set.

Dillard (11-8) has won five of its last seven games and aims to solidify its winning record. The Bleu Devils are led by forward Devin Lewis, who dominated Sunday with 20 points and nine rebounds in 29 minutes. Lewis has scored in double figures in six consecutive games, averaging 16.8 points and 6.0 rebounds during that stretch.

The visiting Buccaneers (2-10) have lost four straight, including the narrow defeat to Dillard. Their primary offensive threat is guard Evik Amy, who erupted for a game-high 27 points in Sunday’s loss. Amy has been a consistent scorer, averaging 13.5 points over his last four contests.

Virgin Islands has struggled defensively, allowing an average of 86.2 points per game during its current skid. Containing Lewis and Dillard’s interior presence, which outrebounded the Buccaneers 42-34 on Sunday, will be a key concern.

For Dillard, maintaining focus against a familiar opponent it just beat is the challenge. The Bleu Devils’ balanced attack, which saw three players score in double figures Sunday, will test a Virgin Islands defense searching for answers.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST. Dillard’s next game is Saturday at home against Southern University at New Orleans.