Duquesne MBB Triumphs; Joyce III Earns First Career Win

Matus Hronsky put in an uncontested dunk, an exclamation point to Duquesne Men’s Basketball Coach Dru Joyce III’s first win with the program, a 67-54 triumph over Old Dominion in Tuesday afternoon’s seventh-place battle at the Cayman Islands Classic.

“It’s rewarding, especially for the guys,” Joyce explained. “I think the most important thing from my perspective as the coach is I know the effort, energy, time and work they put in. They kept believing, they kept fighting for us throughout the losses. Sometimes they can take you to some dark places sometimes, not winning tight and close games. Credit to our staff and players for remaining resilient and willing to see if we can figure this out. I’m proud of them.”

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Hronsky matched his career high with 13 points, which was previously set in his Duquesne debut Nov. 8, 2022, against Montana.

“I thought Tus had a great trip these last three games and it was giving him more opportunity and allowing him to take on a bigger role,” stated Joyce. “He responded well.”

Another two career highs were set in David Dixon’s 12 rebounds, as he did so in 24 minutes of play and Chabi Barre had 10 points on 5-of-7 shooting, including a dagger and-one play late in the second half.

“Chabi his first three games you couldn’t ask for better performances from him and his output and energy,” Joyce offered. “He still doesn’t know everything we’re doing offensively, but he just got after the rebounds and was a presence inside for us. Even in the games we lost, he kept us alive with opportunities to win those games and today he was good again.”

Maximus Edwards had a rounded game consisting of 11 points and seven rebounds. His highlight play was an alley oop dunk, he put down from a Kareem Rozier pass.

Duquesne (1-6) shot 47.2% from the field and scored 40 points in the paint. Jake DiMichele was the Dukes all-tournament team representative. The 54 points conceded were the fewest allowed this season.

Old Dominion (2-6) saw Devin Ceaser lead the way by matching his career-high 23 points.

Duquesne will next play Tuesday when it hosts Saint Peter’s at 7 p.m. on ESPN+.