GRANVILLE, Ohio — The Denison Men's Basketball team overcame John Carroll with an 87–70 victory on Valentine's Day inside Livingston Gymnasium. The Big Red improved to 15–8 overall and 10–4 in NCAC play, while the Blue Streaks fell to 18–6, 10–5 in conference action.

First Half: Denison jumped out to an early lead in the first half with scoring from Luke Salkowski, Kellon Smith, and Samson Zack, mixing fastbreak layups and timely 3-pointers to keep John Carroll off balance. The Blue Streaks answered with points in the paint but Denison's defense created multiple turnovers that converted into transition baskets. The Big Red closed the half on top, 36–28, carrying momentum into the second half.

Second Half: Denison maintained control in the second half with strong contributions from Salkowski, Smith, Owen Giannoulias, and Liam Taylor, combining inside scoring, fastbreak layups, and timely 3-pointers to extend their lead. John Carroll stayed competitive with points in the paint as well as clutch free throws but the Big Red's balanced attack and defensive pressure kept the momentum firmly in Denison's favor. A late 3-pointer from Jack Steinbach capped the scoring, sealing an 87–70 victory for Denison.

Key Performers: 

• Kellon Smith recorded 21 points and 11 rebounds, adding two assists and a steal while shooting a perfect 6-for-6 from the free-throw line and 7-of-10 from the field.
• Owen Giannoulias contributed 16 points with five rebounds, four assists, and a steal.
• Luke Salkowski posted a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds, along with three steals and two assists.
• Samson Zack added 11 points, three rebounds, and an assist in 16 minutes of action.