DAYTON, Ohio (Interstat) — The Belmont Bruins capitalized on a dominant defensive performance, forcing 24 turnovers to secure a 72-66 victory over the Dayton Flyers in a non-conference women’s basketball game Sunday at University of Dayton Arena.

In a contest defined by defensive pressure and offensive struggles, Belmont’s ability to disrupt Dayton’s rhythm proved decisive. The Bruins recorded 10 steals and converted Dayton’s miscues into critical scoring opportunities, while the Flyers managed just four steals and four assists as a team.

Jailyn Banks led all scorers for Belmont, finishing with 21 points. The guard from Spring Hill, Tennessee, also contributed three rebounds and three assists in 32 minutes of action. She was supported by Hilary Fuller of Brisbane, Australia, who added 14 points, three rebounds and two blocks before fouling out.

Despite the loss, Dayton was led by a double-double from Fatima Ibrahim. The 6-foot-3 forward from Winnipeg, Canada, posted 17 points and 11 rebounds. Teammate Nayo Lear of South Holland, Illinois, chipped in 15 points and three rebounds.

The game was a tale of contrasting offensive efficiencies. Belmont attempted 16 more field goals than Dayton, shooting 28 of 68 from the floor. The Bruins, however, were hampered by poor three-point shooting, connecting on just 7 of 29 attempts from beyond the arc.

Dayton’s offense was more selective but less productive from the field, making 21 of 52 shots. The Flyers’ struggles were most apparent from three-point range, where they hit only 3 of 18. Dayton kept the game close by excelling at the free throw line, converting 21 of 23 attempts, while Belmont made 9 of 11.

Belmont controlled the glass on the offensive end, grabbing 10 offensive rebounds which led to 10 second-chance points. Dayton secured 12 offensive boards but managed only four second-chance points. The Bruins also held a significant advantage in assists, dishing out 10 compared to Dayton’s four, and out-blocked the Flyers four to two.

With the win, Belmont evens its season record at 2-2. The Bruins opened the season with a loss at Oklahoma before a decisive home victory over Brown. They were coming off a road loss to Tennessee prior to this contest.

Dayton also moves to a 2-2 record on the season. The Flyers had previously defeated Xavier on the road after a season-opening loss at Illinois State and a home win over Mercyhurst.

Both teams return to action later this week. Belmont will host Lipscomb on Wednesday, while Dayton will welcome Canisius on Friday.