Shenango Battles but Falls to Akron
November 12, 2025 – Akron, OH – In their second matchup this week against a Division I opponent, Penn State Shenango showed stretches of strong offensive firepower and competitive fight, but ultimately fell on the road to Akron, 109–51, inside the James A. Rhodes Arena.
Shenango came out aggressive in the opening minutes, pushing pace and generating clean looks from deep. Despite Akron's size and depth, the Lions continued to attack, hitting 11 three-pointers on the night and showing improved spacing and perimeter confidence. Shenango trailed 50–23 at the half but continued to battle through the second period, adding 28 points behind several standout individual performances.
Akron (3–0) leaned on its athleticism and deep rotation, finishing with 65 rebounds and 32 assists while connecting on 47 field goals. Their pressure defense forced Shenango into tough shots inside the arc, though the Lions found their rhythm from long distance to keep the offense moving.
Leading Shenango was Kevon Washington, who erupted for 21 points, including a blistering seven made three-pointers—one of the top long-range performances of his career. Washington consistently carved out space on the perimeter and provided the spark Shenango needed to stay competitive offensively. Darius Williams followed with a strong all-around effort, posting 13 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and two steals. His ability to create off the dribble and rebound through traffic was a bright spot for the Lions throughout the night. Izzy Santiago added eight points and knocked down a pair of key free throws, while Rhys Grocott delivered one of the team's grittiest efforts, tallying seven rebounds, three points, and a blocked shot while battling Akron's frontcourt. Devin Alston chipped in two points, two assists, and a steal, and Jordan Dotson added four points off the bench.
Shenango's ball movement resulted in 10 assists on 19 made field goals, and the Lions also recorded seven steals, finding ways to disrupt Akron's rhythm at moments throughout the game.
Akron, meanwhile, showcased the depth expected from a Division I roster, with six players scoring in double figures. Shammah Scott led with 18 points, while Bowen Hardman and Evan Mahaffey each added 13.
Despite the outcome, Shenango's effort, long-range shooting, and stretches of tough defense provide momentum heading into their next contest.