In an exhilarating matchup that had fans on the edge of their seats, Baraka Okojie showcased his prowess as George Mason rallied past No. 16 Dayton 71-67 on Wednesday night, marking the first home victory over a ranked opponent in program history.
Tony Skinn, now the Patriots’ first-year coach, achieved a milestone even the legendary 2006 Final Four team couldn’t reach. Okojie’s stellar performance, contributing all of his career-high 19 points in the second half, propelled George Mason to a historic win.
Trailing 40-29 early in the second half, George Mason ignited a remarkable 24-2 run fueled by tenacious defense and unwavering determination. Keyshawn Hall’s 17 points complemented Okojie’s heroics, solidifying the Patriots’ dominance on their home court.
Dayton’s DaRon Holmes II put up a valiant effort with 26 points, but George Mason’s stifling defense and Okojie’s offensive prowess proved insurmountable. The Patriots forced turnovers, capitalized on scoring opportunities, and maintained their composure down the stretch to secure the victory.
Okojie, a freshman standout from Canada, demonstrated his offensive versatility with efficient shooting and aggressive drives to the basket. His stellar performance underscored George Mason’s potential and resilience in the face of adversity.
Despite Dayton’s formidable reputation, George Mason’s tenacity and Skinn’s strategic coaching propelled them to a historic triumph. The victory not only marks a significant milestone for the program but also signals a promising future under Skinn’s leadership.
As the Patriots bask in the glory of their monumental win, the team’s resounding message is clear: they are a force to be reckoned with in collegiate basketball. With unwavering determination and a commitment to excellence, George Mason is poised to leave a lasting impact on the college basketball landscape.
