Navy rallies past Boston University at Case Gym, using defense and late execution to win 58-50

Navy erases early deficit to leave Boston with a Patriot League road victory

Navy shook off a scoreless opening stretch and a 14-point early hole to defeat Boston University 58-50 on Wednesday night, Jan. 28, at Case Gym in Boston. The Midshipmen improved to 16-6 overall and 8-1 in Patriot League play, while the Terriers fell to 8-14 and 3-6.

The game unfolded as a contrast in halves. Boston University controlled the opening minutes, building a 14-0 lead as Navy missed its first eight shots. Navy’s Donovan Draper ended the drought and helped spark a response that brought the Midshipmen within two late in the first half, but Boston University carried a 27-21 advantage into the break.

Second-half run and defensive adjustments flip the game

Navy opened the second half with seven straight points to take its first lead, then used a decisive 15-0 run to turn a five-point deficit into a double-digit advantage. During that stretch, Navy generated stops, limited clean perimeter looks, and converted pressure into transition opportunities.

• Navy outscored Boston University 37-23 after halftime.
• Navy shot 53.6% in the second half and held Boston University to 32.0% after intermission.
• Navy committed just two turnovers in the second half while forcing five.

Boston University trimmed the margin to 49-47 with just over four minutes left, but Navy answered with a late sequence that combined stops, steals, and timely shot-making. Draper’s offensive rebound and jumper steadied the possession game, and Navy’s guard play created separation in the final minutes.

Key performers: Benigni leads Navy; Defty anchors BU

Austin Benigni led Navy with 20 points, including 14 in the second half, and added five rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks while playing the full 40 minutes. Jinwoo Kim finished with 12 points and hit four three-pointers, all after halftime. Draper contributed eight points, five rebounds and four steals, while Mike Woods added eight points and five rebounds.

For Boston University, Ben Defty posted 19 points, eight rebounds and four blocks, and Michael McNair scored 13, including a late three that briefly pulled the Terriers within six. Boston University went 6-for-9 at the free-throw line; Navy’s first free throws did not come until the closing minutes.

The closing possessions highlighted the difference in execution: Navy converted late defensive pressure into points, while Boston University’s final perimeter chances came up short.

Navy’s win extended its conference momentum and reinforced a formula that traveled well: second-half defensive efficiency, low turnovers, and late-game composure on the road.