November 4, 2025 ? The Penn State Lehigh Valley men?s basketball team opened the 2025?26 season in dramatic fashion Tuesday night, earning a hard-fought 79?77 overtime victory on the road against Williamson College of the Trades.

The Nittany Lions showed poise and grit in their season debut, outlasting the Mechanics in a back-and-forth contest that featured clutch shooting and strong defensive stands in the final minutes.

Penn State Lehigh Valley shot an impressive 48% from the field and 46.2% from three-point range (12-for-26) while converting 76% of its free throws, key numbers that made the difference in the extra session.

Leading the way was Emmanuel Kenyi, who posted 19 points and 7 rebounds, including four three-pointers. Gabe Mileto delivered a highly efficient night with 16 points on 4-for-5 shooting from deep, while J. Santos added 18 pointsand 4 rebounds, providing balance on both ends of the floor. Kyle John chipped in 10 points and 5 rebounds, and

Manny Polanco gave the Lions valuable minutes off the bench with 7 points.

Defensively, Lehigh Valley limited Williamson?s attack in overtime and forced 20 turnovers while holding a narrow 36?35 edge on the boards.

Williamson was led by Misael Santana, who scored a game-high 28 points, while Taj Combs added 16 points and 8 rebounds, and Ajjad White contributed a 10-point, 11-rebound double-double.

After leading 36?32 at halftime, Lehigh Valley weathered a late surge from Williamson that forced overtime tied at 77. In the extra period, the Lions locked in defensively and converted key free throws to secure the win.

Head Coach Mills praised the team?s composure under pressure.

?This was a great test for us to start the season,? said Coach Mills. ?Our guys stayed focused in a tough environment, made shots when it counted, and found a way to finish.?

With the victory, Penn State Lehigh Valley improves to 1?0 on the season. The Nittany Lions will look to build on their momentum when they return to action on Tuesday 7pm @ Manor Collge.