The Yale Bulldogs (18-6, 11-0 Ivy League) are set to face the Dartmouth Big Green (12-10, 7-4 Ivy League) on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 5:00 PM ET at Edward Leede Arena in Hanover, New Hampshire. This Ivy League matchup has major implications, with Yale aiming to extend its perfect conference record and Dartmouth looking to strengthen its postseason position.
Team Performance and Recent Form
Yale Bulldogs
Yale has been dominant all season and comes into this game on a 12-game winning streak. In their recent 90-64 rout of Columbia, John Poulakidas led the Bulldogs with 28 points, while Bez Mbeng recorded a triple-double (11 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists).
The Bulldogs boast one of the best defenses in the Ivy League, allowing just 70.0 points per game while ranking near the top in field goal percentage defense (41.8%). Their balanced offensive attack, featuring multiple double-digit scorers, makes them difficult to defend.
Dartmouth Big Green
Dartmouth has had an up-and-down season but has won four of its last five games, including a 76-61 victory over Princeton. Ryan Cornish led the way with 19 points, while Brandon Mitchell-Day added 12 points and 8 rebounds.
The Big Green’s defensive rebounding and perimeter shooting have been their strengths this season. They rank 2nd in the Ivy League in three-point shooting (38.5%), which they’ll need to capitalize on against Yale’s tough defense.
Head-to-Head Matchup
This is the first meeting between these teams this season. Yale has historically dominated this matchup, winning eight of the last ten games against Dartmouth.
If Dartmouth hopes to pull off an upset, they must limit turnovers and capitalize on three-point opportunities, as Yale’s defense thrives on transition baskets.
Key Players to Watch
Yale Bulldogs
- John Poulakidas – Leading Yale in scoring with 19.5 points per game, the sharpshooting guard is a major offensive weapon.
- Bez Mbeng – A versatile playmaker, averaging 5.8 assists per game, who also contributes defensively.
Dartmouth Big Green
- Ryan Cornish – The team’s top scorer at 17.0 points per game, he will be crucial in breaking Yale’s defensive schemes.
- Brandon Mitchell-Day – A strong presence inside, averaging 7.5 rebounds per game, tasked with battling Yale’s frontcourt.
Game Outlook and Prediction
Yale is the clear favorite given their undefeated Ivy League record and defensive efficiency. Dartmouth has home-court advantage, but they’ll need to hit outside shots and control the tempo to keep pace with Yale’s disciplined play.
If Yale’s defensive intensity and ball movement remain sharp, they should continue their winning streak. However, Dartmouth’s three-point shooting could make this closer than expected.
Prediction: Yale Bulldogs 78, Dartmouth Big Green 70
Broadcast Info: Fans can watch the game live on ESPN+ at 5:00 PM ET.
