DELAWARE, Ohio – The Ohio Wesleyan University men's basketball team hosted Oberlin for afternoon hoops at Branch Rickey Arena on Saturday. The Battling Bishops broke through late in the first half to take a 10-point lead into halftime. Oberlin rallied in the second half and cut the deficit to two, but the Bishops shut down the comeback to secure a 75–69 victory and snap a six-game losing streak.

OWU improves to 4-8 overall, and 1-3 in NCAC competition. Oberlin falls to 7-6, and remains winless within conference play at 0-4. 

After the first eight minutes of play, both sides were deadlocked at 17, with both looking to seize momentum. The Red and Black did just that, as Jessee Battle knocked down two threes and sparked the Bishop offense. OWU would finish the half on a 22-12 run to carry a 39-29 lead into halftime. 

Following the intermission, Ohio Wesleyan maintained its lead and held a nine-point advantage with just under six minutes remaining. However, Oberlin stormed back with a 13-6 run and were within striking distance with just over two minutes to play. The Bishop defense held firm, shutting out Oberlin the rest of the way. Jessee Battle sank a clutch late three to seal a 75–69 victory.

THE NUMBERS
Peyton Frey led the Bishop offense with a career-high 27 points, shooting 10-for-17 from the field including two triples. He led the team on the glass as well, grabbing seven rebounds. 

Jessee Battle finished with 15 points, shooting a perfect 5-5 from the field, four of which came from behind the arc. Battle added four rebounds, one assist, one block, and one steal. 

Jake Lowman and Isaac Ward contributed seven points each. Lowman added six assists and five rebounds. Ward recorded five assists and six rebounds. 

Kevin Gallagher had six points and four assists. 

Phil Wallace added six points, two steals, and two rebounds.  

Quinn Hart had four points and two rebounds. 

James McCarthy rounded out the Bishop scoring with three points and two rebounds. 

UP NEXT
The Battling Bishops hit the road Wednesday night, as they take on John Carroll at 7 p.m. in University Heights.