The Penn State Shenango Lions Men's Basketball team made history Wednesday night, playing their first-ever game against a Division I opponent, Saint Francis University, in Loretto, PA. Despite their determination, the Lions fell 107-55 to the Red Flash. This game does not count against Shenango's overall record, per NCAA rules.

The Lions were led by D'Montez Owens, who scored 11 points while adding three rebounds and an assist. Malik Davis matched Owens with 11 points, including two three-pointers, and grabbed a team-high five rebounds. Izzy Santiago also had a strong showing, contributing 10 points on 4-of-8 shooting, with two three-pointers.

The Lions struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 5-of-29 (17.2%), and finished the game with a 33.8% field goal percentage. However, they were perfect from the free-throw line, converting all four of their attempts. On defense, the Lions forced nine turnovers and recorded three steals, with contributions from Miles Ciulla and Langston Boyd.

Saint Francis took control of the game early, leveraging their size and depth to dominate the boards with a 53-26 rebounding advantage. The Red Flash shot an efficient 55.1% from the field and connected on 10 three-pointers.

The Lions will look to rebound this weekend as they return to PSUAC play, travelling out east for back-to-back conference matchups against Penn State York on Friday and Penn State Mont Alto on Saturday. These games provide an opportunity for Shenango to build momentum and compete for their third win of the season.