Xavier started the game by getting the ball inside, with Tyrique Jones and Zach Hankins combining for 12 for Xavier’s first 16 points. Xavier led 16-12 with 13:28 left in the first half as a result.
The Musketeers strayed from this in the next few minutes, shooting multiple long threes. None went in, but they were able to grab an offensive board on one and still scored. They led 21-18 with 10:51 to go in the first half.
Xavier made their first two shots outside the paint in the following four minute war, with Ryan Welage and Naji Marshall knocking sown threes on consecutive possessions to help Xavier lead 29-24 with 7:19 left in the first half.