GRANVILLE, Ohio (Feb. 1) – In a game filled with momentum shifts and high-intensity moments, the No. 15-ranked Denison suffered its first North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC) loss of the season, falling to Kenyon 82-77 in double overtime inside Livingston Gymnasium.

Despite a gritty effort and clutch plays down the stretch, the Big Red (17-2, 9-1 NCAC) couldn't overcome an off-shooting night and a relentless Kenyon (5-15, 3-8 NCAC) squad that made key plays in the final moments. The Owls built a lead late in the second half, but Denison continued to chip away. Kenyon led 61-59 in the final minute of regulation before a key layup from Kellon Smith with seven seconds left extended the game to overtime. Both teams held firm in the first overtime scoring five points each, ultimately Kenyon pulled away late in the second overtime to secure the upset.

Kellon Smith led Denison with 17 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists, while Ricky Radtke added 16 points on 7-of-11 shooting along with two blocks. Darren Rubin finished with 14 points and three steals, and Trevor Reed provided a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Tyler Miller came off the bench to score 11 points, including two clutch three-pointers that kept Denison in the game. While the Big Red struggled from beyond the arc (3-of-18, 16.7%) and the free-throw line (24-of-36, 66.7%), they battled defensively, forcing 14 Kenyon turnovers.

Denison will look to bounce back as they continue conference play next week. The Big Red will travel to Wabash College on February 5th for a midweek matchup.