ST. LOUIS, MO – The UC Santa Cruz men's basketball team pulled off a thrilling 83-80 overtime victory against Denison University on Wednesday. Caden Breznikar's dominant double-double led the Banana Slugs to the hard-fought win.
 
How It Happened
Breznikar was the standout performer for UCSC, finishing with 21 points and 13 rebounds, including key offensive boards in crunch time. Joe Espy also delivered a strong performance with 21 points, nine rebounds, and a block, providing steady scoring and defensive presence in the paint. Andrew Ferrara-Jones and Zino Okah added 10 points each, with Okah contributing three steals to bolster the defensive effort.
 
The game was close throughout, featuring 11 ties and 12 lead changes. UCSC trailed by three at halftime, 30-27 but surged back in the second half with a 44-point effort. Denison forced overtime with late-game heroics, but the Banana Slugs held their composure, outscoring the Big Red 12-9 in the extra period.
 
UCSC shot an impressive 49.3% from the field, dominating inside with 50 points in the paint. They also showcased their depth, with 29 points coming from the bench. Defensively, the Banana Slugs capitalized on Denison's mistakes, scoring 12 points off turnovers and grabbing 40 rebounds compared to Denison's 34.
 
In overtime, UCSC took control with a clutch layup from Breznikar and a decisive three-pointer by Ferrara-Jones. Espy sealed the victory with a timely tip-in late in the extra period.
 
The Banana Slugs continue their road trip, facing Washington University on Saturday, December 7th, in St. Louis.