We got the event underway with an enticing matchup between Butler and Covenant Day.' Butler came out strong with its outside shooting, as 2024 Tyler Showalter was firing from behind the arc.' It is what helped Butler get out to a quick double-digit lead, but Covenant Day was able to settle down and cut into the lead before the end of the first quarter, as Butler led 19-12. The lead was able to stay around that area for much of the second quarter, with Butler eventually taking a 31-20 halftime lead. Showalter and Zion McDuffie led the charge with both having double figures, while Elijah Green was strong for Covenant Day.
Going into the third quarter, Covenant Day continued to struggle to get it going offensively consistently but you can also credit that a little to Butler's defense as well.' McDuffie continued to lead the way for the Bulldogs, while others started to chip in as well. Maintaining their double-digit lead throughout the third quarter and leading 44-27 after three, Butler was just too strong throughout. Credit to Covenant Day towards the end, as they were able to battle until the final whistle, but they ultimately fell 58-50.
Final: Butler 58 ' Covenant Day 50
Stats:
Covenant Day: Chris Rivens 19pts, 6rebs/ Elijah Green 12pts, 2asts/ Patrick Penosky 8pts
Butler: Zion McDuffie 24pts, 7rebs, 4asts, 5stls/ Tyler Showalter 18pts, 6rebs, 3asts, 3stls