WESTERVILLE, Ohio (Dec. 30) — The Denison University men's basketball team capped off the 2024 Smokey Ballenger Classic in style, defeating Olivet by a 78-67 score at Otterbein University on Monday evening. 

The Big Red extended their winning streak to four games and improved to 9-1 overall on the season.

Senior guard Darren Rubin led the way with 15 points, adding five rebounds, two assists, and one steal to earn a spot on the all-tournament team. This is his second such honor this season as he previously earned a spot on the all-tournament team at the Lopata Classic at WashU earlier this month. 

Sophomore guard Kellon Smith added 14 points while shooting an efficient 7-for-8 from the field. Senior forward Ricky Radtke chipped in 13 points, five rebounds, and a block, while senior Tyler Miller pulled down a game-high 11 rebounds to go along with nine points. Sophomore Aidan King rounded out Denison's balanced scoring attack with 12 points.

The Big Red took control early, shooting an impressive 58 percent in the first half to build a commanding 48-28 lead at the break. Denison's defense held strong, limiting Olivet to just 38.7 percent shooting in the opening frame. 

Olivet made a push in the second half, outscoring Denison 39-30, but the Big Red's early lead proved too much. Rubin and King hit timely baskets to keep the Comets at bay, and Denison's defense limited Olivet to just 23.8 percent shooting from beyond the arc.

The Big Red's depth played a key role, as their bench outscored Olivet's reserves 24-8. Denison also controlled the boards, finishing with a 35-32 rebounding edge. Olivet's quick play style helped them convert 14 of their points off fast breaks compared to Denison's four.

With the victory, Denison concluded their non-conference schedule on a high note. 

The team will return home to Livingston Gymnasium on January 2 to take on conference rival Ohio Wesleyan University at 6:00 PM.