Springfield, OH – SPRINGFIELD, Ohio – The Wittenberg University Men's Basketball team returned to Pam Evans Smith Arena Monday night to host the Big Red from Denison University, falling in a hard-fought battle 69-55. The Tigers were led by Levi Boettcher with 14 points, knocking down 6 of 14 from the floor. Wittenberg put together a 40 percent shooting clip in the first half, but unfortunately could not get the friendly roll in the second half, converting on just 8 of 22 from the floor throughout the final 20 minutes. Three Tigers finished with seven points apiece, which included Brice Hill, Josh Tolliver and Jeff Queen.

From the start of the game the intensity level was high for both teams. Denison held the lead for the majority of the first half with their biggest lead coming with 4:48 left in the half, up by nine, but Wittenberg would keep battling and cut the game to seven points at the half. The first half scoring was led by Brice Hill and Levi Boettcher with seven each. Boettcher added two rebounds and an assist before the half was over. The Tigers were able to force nine turnovers in the first half with lockdown defense.

NCAC LEADERS

Boettcher has worked his way into the Top 20 in the NCAC in rebounds, averaging 5.5 per contest. Shooting just over 51 percent in 10 games this season, Tolliver has secured his spot in the Top 10 in the NCAC for field goals. Ridge Young continues to hold strong as a top two three-point shooter in the league, converting on 44 percent from beyond the arc.

UP NEXT

The Tigers will return to action Wednesday night traveling to Ohio Wesleyan University to take on the Battling Bishops at 8:00 PM.