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GRANVILLE, Ohio (Jan. 2) - The Big Red returned home in commanding fashion after nearly a month-long, five-game road stretch, overpowering the Battling Bishops of Ohio Wesleyan University with a decisive 92-63 victory inside Livingston Gymnasium.
This win marked Denison's fifth consecutive triumph and their second conference victory of the season, improving their overall record to 10-1 and their NCAC standing to 2-0.
Cameron Smith and Tyler Miller led the charge for the Big Red. Smith scored 20 points on an efficient 7-of-8 shooting, including 5-of-6 from beyond the arc, while Miller also contributed 20 points, shooting 8-of-9 from the field and grabbing five rebounds. Their combined offensive firepower set the tone for Denison's dominant performance.
Ricky Radtke added 10 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks, making his presence felt on both ends of the court. Scotty Dean also reached double digits adding 11 points to the board with two assists. Kellon Smith chipped in 9 points and six rebounds, while Darren Rubin provided a spark with 7 points and two assists.
Denison's bench made a significant impact on the game, contributing 26 points overall. Gates Flynn and Jack Steinbach facilitated the offense effectively, each recording four assists. First-year players also played a role, as Luke Salkowski added 8 points, four rebounds, and a block. Liam Taylor knocked down two jumpers in the paint to score 4 points, and Tyler Martin went 1-of-1 from beyond the arc, adding 3 points late in the game.
Anytime Ohio Wesleyan attempted to close the gap, Denison responded with big plays to widen their lead again, never allowing the Battling Bishops to gain momentum. The Big Red's ability to answer in key moments ensured their control of the game from start to finish.
Denison's offensive efficiency was remarkable, shooting 60.3% from the field and an impressive 54.2% from three-point range. Their defensive intensity also played a key role, holding Ohio Wesleyan to just 38.6% shooting overall.
With little time to rest, the Big Red will now prepare for a quick turnaround as they travel to take on conference rival Kenyon College on Saturday, January 4th, at 3:00 p.m.
