Butler University’s men’s basketball team heads to Boise State on Sunday, seeking to extend their strong start to the season. The Bulldogs, currently 2-0, have showcased impressive shooting, hitting 50.7% of their field goals and 41.4% from beyond the arc.
The team’s recent performance culminated in a 99-65 victory against Fairleigh Dickinson on Wednesday, where they matched a program record by making 20 three-pointers. They also tied the school record with 31 assists in that game.
Asim Djulovic starred in the win, shooting 4 of 5 from three-point range and totaling 25 points. He currently leads the team with an average of 22 points per game and is shooting an impressive 72.7% from long distance. Eduardo Klafke contributed to the Bulldogs’ success, adding 14.5 points per game and going 4 of 6 from three against Fairleigh Dickinson. He attributed their shooting prowess to team chemistry and preparation over the summer.
“That’s just part of the chemistry we have been building since the summer,” Klafke said. “I’m really happy for my teammates. Everybody did a good job shooting the ball, and we’ve been putting up a lot of shots and the work is showing.”
In contrast, Boise State enters the matchup after a commanding 132-53 win over West Coast Baptist, a game during which they set several program records, including points (132), field goals made (51), rebounds (67), and margin of victory (79 points).
Dovydas Butka led the Broncos with 18 points and nine rebounds, while Damari Wheeler-Thomas contributed 17 points. Bhan Buom finished with 16 points, and Jerquarius Stanback recorded 15 points along with 16 rebounds for his third career double-double.
Boise State head coach Leon Rice remarked on the benefits of the lopsided victory, emphasizing the importance of using it as a learning opportunity. “Every day we are together we want to get better,” Rice stated. “We know what is coming against Butler, but this was a great tuneup. It was a mature approach from our guys.”
The upcoming game is set to test both teams as they continue to build momentum early in the season.
