LAKELAND, Fla. — Washburn defeated Dallas Baptist University (DBU) 89-77 at Jenkins Field House, overcoming a strong first-half performance from DBU, which led by as many as 11 points.

The game opened with a dunk by Jackson McCabe, assisted by TJ Thomas, giving DBU an early lead. The Ichabods quickly responded with a tip-in by Brady Christiansen, tying the score. Dallas Baptist then gained momentum with Drew Calderon hitting a 3-pointer off an assist from Xavion Brown at 17:47. Jaden Shelvin contributed a layup and a 3-pointer, helping DBU maintain a lead. As the half progressed, DBU's Thomas hit two free throws at 10:40, extending their advantage. The Ichabods closed the gap with Jeremiah Jones's 3-pointer at the 40-second mark, but the Patriots held a narrow 43-41 lead at the end of the first half.

Drew Calderon facilitated a strong start for Dallas Baptist, assisting Xavion Brown's dunk at 18:48 and later scoring a layup following an offensive rebound at 17:25, helping DBU maintain a narrow lead. Washburn responded with a 3-pointer by Jack Bachelor at 18:30, briefly tying the score. The Patriots' Trevor Frank made significant contributions, hitting a 3-pointer assisted by TJ Thomas at 18:12 and later sinking a jumper at 02:05. However, the Ichabods capitalized on consistent scoring and defensive plays, including Bryson Smith's key free throws at 00:59, outscoring Dallas Baptist 48-34 in the second half to secure the win.

TJ Thomas led the performance for the Patriots with 19 points, converting nine of his ten free throw attempts and grabbing five rebounds. Calderon added 11 points, including three 3-pointers, and contributed two steals. Frank also tallied 11 points and led the defensive effort with four steals. Brown distributed the ball effectively, recording five assists to support the team's offense.

Dillon Claussen stood out for the Ichabods with 23 points and 12 rebounds, achieving an impressive 81.8% field goal percentage. Bachelor contributed 15 points, making three 3-pointers, and led the team with seven assists. Jones added 13 points and was crucial on defense with seven steals and six rebounds. Smith chipped in with 12 points and five rebounds, maintaining a perfect record from the free-throw line. Christiansen recorded 11 points alongside two blocks and four assists, showcasing his all-around contribution.