Butler Beats DePaul 68-58

Game Recap

The Butler Bulldogs fought back from an early deficit Saturday afternoon to beat DePaul 68-58. They’ve improved to 5-8 in BIG EAST play by completing the season sweep over the Blue Demons, who still have just one conference win.

DePaul came out with energy and raced out to an early double-digit lead. With 9:45 remaining in the first half, Butler’s Chuck Harris made a three-pointer to cut the lead to nine and it was the beginning of a Harris hot streak. Over the next eight and a half minutes, Harris added 12 more points, helping the Bulldogs climb back into it. Butler led 30-29 at the break.

In the second half, Butler controlled the game, with Bryce Nze having his best half of the season and Harris continuing to contribute. Nze scored 14 of his 22 points (a Butler career high) in the second half; Harris also finished with 22.

For the Blue Demons, Javon Freeman-Liberty had a career day, but had very little help from his teammates. He was the only DePaul player in double figures, scoring a season-high 26 points to go with eight rebounds and four steals.

DePaul will face Xavier next, while Butler prepares to host St. John’s.

Next Up

Butler hosts St. John’s on Tuesday, February 9 at 9:00 p.m. ET.

DePaul plays Xavier on Thursday, February 11 at 3:30 p.m. ET.