HIRAM, Ohio - February 10, 2024 - The Hiram men's basketball team honored Ricky Esdel, Max Johnson and Jacob Kowal on Saturday afternoon as part of the Senior Night festivities inside Price Gymnasium.

Despite losing to Wabash in a tightly contested battle, it was a day to remember for a senior class that's logged well over a decade of contributions to the Terriers program.

Esdel has played over 60 games with Hiram, notably working his way into the starting rotation this past season as a force on both ends of the court. His 25 blocks last season were the most on the team.

Johnson began with the team in 2020, serving a key role both on and off the court. He scored 12 points in eight minutes last season against Geneva before working his way to an NABC Honors Court selection for his academic performance.

Kowal has been a leader as a team captain in each of the last two seasons. He's won multiple awards throughout his Hiram career, including two NCAC Academic Honor Roll selections and an induction into the Chi Alpha Sigma National College Athlete Honor Society.

The trio of seniors started together and all had special moments in the game. Kowal made a big three-pointer, Esdel scored three different times and Johnson played big minutes and tallied stats on both ends of the court.

As a team, Hiram kept the entire first half within 10-or-fewer points. The team's defense limited Wabash to a 44% FG pct during that span.

Trent Jakacki, who led the team with 21 points, scored 15 points in the second half alone. His contributions kept Hiram within 16 points throughout the contest, but the balance of the Little Giants was enough to secure the conference win.

The Terriers will next host Wooster on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. inside Price Gymnasium.