Xavier Musketeers Start the Season Strong with 78-69 Win Over Texas Southern

The 2024-25 college basketball season is officially underway, and the Xavier Musketeers couldn’t have asked for a better start. Despite a rocky beginning, where they found themselves down early, the Musketeers rebounded to take control and cruise to a 78-69 victory over Texas Southern in their season opener at the Cintas Center.

A Slow Start, But the Musketeers Find Their Groove

The game didn’t start exactly as the home crowd had hoped. Texas Southern came out hot, going on a 10-0 run early that had the Musketeers on their heels. But in typical Xavier fashion, they responded. The team shook off the early jitters, shifted into high gear, and gradually took command. What followed was an impressive stretch of basketball where they asserted their dominance on both ends of the court.

This was no easy win, but the Musketeers showed why they’re being touted as a top team in the Big East this season. By halftime, they had erased the deficit and found themselves up by 10 points, heading into the break with all the momentum.

Ryan Conwell Shines in Xavier Debut

The star of the night? Ryan Conwell, who had a sensational debut for Xavier. The Graduate guard was a force to be reckoned with, leading the team in scoring with 21 points. His smooth shooting stroke, paired with a level-headed approach in his first collegiate game, had the crowd buzzing. Conwell’s ability to score both inside and outside will be huge for Xavier as they look to make a deep run this season.

Zach Freemantle’s Triumphant Return

It wasn’t just the new faces making an impact. Zach Freemantle, back on the court for his first game in nearly two years after recovering from injury, looked every bit the player who had been a staple for Xavier’s offense in the past. The senior forward delivered a stellar performance, scoring 19 points and showing flashes of the dynamic versatility that made him such a standout prior to his injury. Freemantle’s return is a massive boost for Xavier, adding experience and leadership to an already talented squad.

McKnight and Swain Step Up

But it wasn’t just Conwell and Freemantle who contributed to the win. Dayvion McKnight, the talented transfer from Western Kentucky, also made his presence felt. McKnight dropped 19 points while dishing out 5 assists, demonstrating his ability to run the offense and score when needed. The Musketeers’ new point guard looked every bit the playmaker they hoped for, showing excellent court vision and the confidence to take over in clutch moments.

Sophomore guard Dailyn Swain also impressed, contributing 14 points and 5 assists. Swain’s all-around game continues to improve, and his ability to score efficiently and facilitate for others will be a key asset as the season progresses.

What This Win Means for the Musketeers

This victory over Texas Southern was more than just a season opener—it was a statement. Despite the early adversity, Xavier’s depth and talent were evident. They’ve got the pieces to make a serious run this season, and this win is only the beginning.

The Musketeers' balanced scoring attack, with contributions from a variety of players, is a good omen for the season. With Conwell’s scoring, Freemantle’s return to form, McKnight’s leadership, and Swain’s versatility, Xavier looks poised to build on the high expectations surrounding the program.

As the season continues, fans have plenty to be excited about. The team’s ability to respond to adversity, especially with a new-look roster, bodes well for the challenges that lie ahead. If this game was any indication, the Musketeers are ready to turn those lofty expectations into reality.

Next Up: A New Challenge Awaits

Xavier will look to build on this momentum as they head into their next game, with fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter in what promises to be an exciting season of Musketeer basketball. With players like Conwell, Freemantle, McKnight, and Swain leading the charge, the sky’s the limit for Xavier.