The Kent State men’s basketball team took on the College of Wooster in an exhibition game Friday night. Wooster — who is a division III school — went 21-8 last year and played in the Division III tournament. 

The lone senior starter, Desmond Ridenour, was joined by three juniors in the forms of Jalen Avery, Adonis De La Rosa and Jaylin Walker. The starting five was rounded out by freshman BJ Duling.

Wooster held a 24-22 lead at the 10:25 mark thanks to an incredible start from behind the arc. The Fighting Scotts began the first half shooting a red-hot six-six from behind the three-point line.

During the next possession Walker connected on a three of his own, putting the Flashes back on top for good. As the first half buzzer expired, Avery knocked down a three from just inside the half court line, which increased the Kent State led to 48-36 at the break.

Back to back three’s from Walker and Danny Pippen quickly pushed the Flashes lead to 60-44 with 13:11 remaining. As the second half continued, Kent’s size wore down the Fighting Scotts. Wooster was doubled up inside the paint and was outscored 28-14.

The Flashes eventually pulled ahead, and won 86-65.

Walker led the Flashes with 19 points, while Adonis De La Rosa added 15 of his own in just 14 minutes. Mitch Peterson led the team in boards with eight along with a team high 5 steals in 29 minutes. 

The Flashes season opener is next Saturday in Akron against Youngstown State in the Northeast Ohio Doubleheader Benefitting Coaches vs. Cancer. 

Tanner Castora is a sports reporter. Contact him at [email protected].