Washington, D.C., October 23, 2025
News Summary
In an exhibition match, the Georgetown University men’s basketball team emerged victorious against George Washington University, winning 73-64 at GWU’s Smith Center. The game attracted a sellout crowd, marking the largest attendance since 2016. Notably, this matchup was the first encounter between the two teams since 1981. Georgetown showcased a balanced roster with returning players and transfers, while GWU aimed to rebuild with fresh talent. Georgetown secured the win, capitalizing on GWU’s turnovers and strong performances from key players.
Washington, D.C.
The Georgetown University men’s basketball team defeated George Washington University (GWU) 73-64 in an exhibition match held at GWU’s Smith Center. The game, played in front of a sellout crowd of 4,287, marked the largest attendance since 2016 for a basketball game at the venue. This matchup was notable as it was the first time Georgetown and GWU faced off since December 16, 1981.
The NCAA now permits teams to play two preseason exhibitions, which replaces the former practice of closed-door “secret scrimmages.” Georgetown’s roster featured three returning players and two transfers, showcasing a mix of experience and new talent on the court. On the other hand, GWU fielded a roster of 10 players, which included five newcomers, as they look to build upon last season’s performance.
Throughout the match, GWU struggled with consistency, committing 17 turnovers that hindered their efforts on both offense and defense. Georgetown capitalized on this, establishing a 23-13 lead midway through the first half, thanks to a significant 9-0 scoring run.
Initially, GWU’s Garrett Johnson made a notable comeback, scoring early in the game. This marked his first points following a recovery from a torn ACL and treatment for a benign hip tumor. GWU’s Tre Dinkins III also contributed to the team’s efforts, making three 3-pointers in a brief span during the first half, scoring a total of 9 points.
The game remained competitive, with GWU’s Trey Autry making a buzzer-beating 3-pointer that trimmed Georgetown’s lead down to 38-32 at halftime. Georgetown’s Caleb Williams emerged as the game’s leading scorer, netting 20 points, while teammates Malik Mack and Kayvaun Mulready contributed significantly with 16 points and 12 points, respectively.
In the closing moments, Georgetown sealed their victory by converting a series of free throws and maintaining control of the lead with crucial shots during crunch time. Both teams performed well offensively, with each shooting over 40% from the field. However, GWU struggled from beyond the arc, managing to hit only 9 of 32 attempts from three-point range.
Looking ahead, Georgetown is scheduled to play their next preseason scrimmage against the University of Kentucky on October 30. Meanwhile, GWU’s season opener is set against the University of Maine on November 3 at 8 p.m.
Following the game, Georgetown Head Coach Ed Cooley expressed reservations about future matchups, emphasizing concerns about risking home revenue for competitive games. In contrast, GWU Head Coach Chris Caputo expressed enthusiasm about increasing the level of competition in future games.
About the Teams
- Georgetown University: Known for its historic basketball program and recent performance improvements.
- George Washington University: Focusing on rebuilding with a mix of fresh talent and returning players.
Game Summary
| Team | Points | Key Players |
|---|---|---|
| Georgetown | 73 | Caleb Williams (20), Malik Mack (16), Kayvaun Mulready (12) |
| GWU | 64 | Tre Dinkins III (9 points), Garrett Johnson (early game scorer) |
FAQ
- What was the final score of the Georgetown vs. GWU exhibition match? Georgetown University defeated George Washington University 73-64 in an exhibition match.
- Where was the game played? The game was played at GWU’s Smith Center in front of a sellout crowd of 4,287.
- When was the last meeting between Georgetown and GWU in men’s basketball? The last time Georgetown and GWU met in men’s basketball was on December 16, 1981.
- How many turnovers did GWU have during the game? GWU committed 17 turnovers during the game, struggling to find consistency on both ends of the floor.
- What is the next game scheduled for Georgetown? Georgetown is scheduled to play their next preseason scrimmage against the University of Kentucky on October 30.
- When is GWU’s season opener? GWU’s season opener is set against the University of Maine on November 3 at 8 p.m.
