Akron, Ohio — In an impressive performance, Bowen Hardman came off the bench to contribute 15 points, leading the Akron Zips to a decisive 88-57 victory over the Ohio Wesleyan Battling Bishops on Friday evening.

Hardman showcased his sharpshooting skills, hitting 5 of 10 from beyond the three-point line to bolster his team’s efforts. Isaiah Gray also played a significant role, scoring 13 points and maintaining a perfect shooting record with 5 of 5 from the floor, in addition to grabbing five rebounds. Another strong contributor was Sharron Young, who finished with 13 points on 5 for 7 shooting, including 3 of 5 from three-point territory.

For Ohio Wesleyan, Jessee Battle led the team with 16 points and four assists, while Henry Hinkle and Isaac Ward each chipped in with 12 points. The Battling Bishops faced a tough challenge against Akron’s strong offensive display.

The Zips took control of the game early, establishing a lead just 12 seconds into the first half and never relinquishing it. Gray was instrumental in taking charge, leading the scoring for his team with eight points before halftime, which helped Akron establish a solid 41-26 lead by the break. In the second half, Akron expanded their advantage significantly, orchestrating a 14-2 run that increased their lead from 20 to an overwhelming 32 points. Hardman was particularly effective during this stretch, scoring nine points in the second half alone, helping to create a dominating final score.

Overall, Akron outpaced Ohio Wesleyan by 16 points in the second half, showcasing their superior depth and shooting efficiency as they improved their season record to 1-1. The game served as a strong statement for the Zips as they continue their campaign.