DePaul beats Xavier 86-77 with balanced attack, six scorers in double figures

DePaul unleashed a balanced offensive onslaught to defeat Xavier 86-77 on January 3, 2026. The Blue Demons made history with six double-digit scorers, a first against a Big East opponent. This balanced attack proved too much for the Musketeers to handle.

Gunn’s Game-High 22 Points Spearheads DePaul Victory

CJ Gunn established himself as DePaul’s primary threat with a game-high 22 points. Shooting 8-of-16 from the floor, Gunn also grabbed six rebounds while controlling the tempo. His efficiency fueled the Blue Demons to their crucial conference win.

Gunn’s performance sent a clear message about DePaul’s offensive capabilities. The guard balanced scoring with ball distribution, making it impossible for Xavier’s defense to establish a consistent rhythm throughout the contest.

Blocker Erupts from Three as Supporting Cast Delivers

Layden Blocker complemented Gunn’s effort with 18 points on efficient shooting. Blocker connected on 3-of-5 three-pointers, showcasing the Blue Demons‘ range and spacing. The guard’s perimeter success forced Xavier to extend defensively, creating gaps inside.

Brandon Maclin contributed 13 points, while Kaleb Banks added 11 points. Combined with RJ Smith and NJ Benson, the Blue Demons showcased unprecedented depth in a Big East matchup.

DePaul’s Historic Balanced Scoring Attack Breaks Program Record

The six double-digit scorers marked the first time in program history that DePaul achieved this milestone against a conference opponent. The offensive distribution prevented Xavier from focusing defensive efforts on any single player.

Category	DePaul	Xavier
Final Score	86	77
Double-Digit Scorers	Six Players	Four Players
High Scorer	CJ Gunn (22)	TBA
Arena	Wintrust Arena	Visitor

This balanced offensive approach allowed DePaul to maintain consistent pressure throughout both halves. Xavier struggled to defend the perimeter, surrendering multiple three-pointers and allowing penetration.

“Led by a balanced attack with six double-digit scorers, DePaul men’s basketball opened up 2026 with 86-77 win over Xavier.”

— DePaul Athletics, Official Game Summary

Defensive Intensity and Second-Half Execution Seal the Victory

DePaul opened the contest with a 14-7 advantage, immediately asserting control through Xavier’s zone defense. The Blue Demons shot 40 points in the first half, establishing early momentum that proved decisive. Xavier mounted a second-half comeback bid, but DePaul‘s balanced scoring prevented the Musketeers from rallying.

The 46 second-half points demonstrated DePaul’s ability to adjust and execute when it mattered most. Coach’s team showcased the offensive versatility necessary to compete in the Big East Conference.

Does DePaul’s Balanced Attack Signal a Turning Point in 2026?

The six-scorer balanced attack raises questions about DePaul’s ceiling in conference play. With multiple offensive weapons, the Blue Demons demonstrated they can compete with elite Big East opponents. Will this balanced approach become the team’s identity moving forward?

Xavier finished one of the nation’s top defensive units with its struggles, yet the Musketeers still scored 77 points. The DePaul team’s offensive execution proved too much to overcome, suggesting a roster capable of winning meaningful Big East Conference games.

Sources

• ESPN – Game recap and box score statistics from DePaul 86, Xavier 77 final
• DePaul University Athletics – Official game summary highlighting balanced offensive attack milestone
• CBS Sports – Game tracking and player performance data from Wintrust Arena