RECORDS FALL IN LOUISVILLE RAMPAGE

LOUISVILLE OH- In a Sectional Final matchup that showcased their prowess on both ends of the court, the Louisville delivered a commanding performance to secure a resounding 74-37 victory over Chaney. The win not only propels Louisville to the district round but also ties the program record for the largest margin of victory in a tournament game, highlighting their dominance on the hardwood.

Leading the charge for Louisville was Brooke Haren, whose outstanding performance saw her pour in a game-high 27 points, setting a Louisville tournament game record in the process. Alongside her, Courtney Barwick added 22 points, surpassing her 1000th career point milestone in a memorable fashion. Their combined offensive firepower proved too much for Chaney to handle, as Louisville surged ahead and never looked back.

Contributing to Louisville’s balanced scoring effort was Taylor McCully, who chipped in 7 points to help bolster the team’s offensive output and extend their lead.

With this impressive win under their belts, Louisville now sets their sights on the district semifinals, where they will face off against Mentor on Tuesday at 7:30 at Valley Forge. As they prepare for their upcoming matchup, Louisville celebrates their dominant performance in the Sectional Final while remaining focused on the challenges that lie ahead in their pursuit of postseason success. With their sights set on a deep tournament run, Louisville is poised to continue their winning ways and make a statement on the road to the district title.

Game Photos HERE: https://ysn.smugmug.com/2-22-g-bb-channey-louisville/2-22-g-bb-louisville-channey/105EOS1D

FITCH FINALLY PUNCHES THROUGH TO DISTRICTS

By Ty Bartell 

AUSTINTOWN, OH— The Austintown-Fitch Falcons girls basketball team delivered a commanding performance in the sectional final matchup against the Canton McKinley Bulldogs, securing a resounding 57-35 victory on Thursday night.

In a clash between the Falcons, representing the All American Conference (AAC), and the long-tenured Federal League member Bulldogs from Canton McKinley, Austintown-Fitch emerged as the dominant force.

The Falcons wasted no time asserting their dominance, starting the game with a fast-paced offensive onslaught to seize a double-digit lead by the end of the first quarter, holding a commanding 16-6 advantage over the Bulldogs. Fitch continued their stellar defensive performance in the second quarter, keeping Canton McKinley’s offense at bay while extending their lead with a 14-2 period to hold a commanding 30-8 lead at halftime.

Although the Bulldogs managed to play the game more evenly in the second half, with Fitch holding a narrow 12-11 edge in the third quarter, the Falcons maintained control with a 42-19 lead heading into the final period. Austintown-Fitch then put the finishing touches in the fourth quarter, securing the victory despite Canton McKinley outscoring them 16-15 in the final period.

Player of the Game honors were awarded to both “Ace” Ayla Ray and Rachel Spalding. Ray led all scorers with a game-high 15 points, while Spalding contributed 11 points to help pace the Falcons. On the opposing side, Kylonee Foster led Canton McKinley with 14 points, followed by Sha’Rayia Hall with 9 points.

With the win, Austintown-Fitch improves to a 14-9 record on the season and advances to the Division 1, Region 1, Northeast 1 brackets district semi-final at Massillon Perry, where they will face another pack of Bulldogs in Stow-Munroe Falls (19-5) on Tuesday, February 27th. Canton McKinley concludes their season with a record of 9-14.

For the latest updates on Austintown-Fitch Falcons basketball and more, including live games, scores, stats, and stories, fans can stay tuned to YSN throughout the season.

URSULINE SPINS AROUND TIGERS IN OVERTIME

By Noah Ricks

 

YOUNGSTOWN, OH – The Howland Tigers and Ursuline Fighting Irish boys’ basketball teams put on a thrilling finish to the regular season in a game that would take an extra period to complete. The Irish did the right things at the right time as they would defeat the Tigers in overtime 62-53.

 

Howland gave the red hot Fighting Irish all they could ask for in a non-conference classic. They would take control of the game in the first half thanks in part to senior Alex Henry, who would pick up 9 first-quarter points, en route to a 21-point performance. The Tigers were able to take a 23-21 advantage heading into the locker room as senior John Perry tagged along his teammate Henry with 13 tallies.

 

Despite first half struggles, Ursuline would make huge adjustments in the second half, which revolved mainly around coach Keith Gunther’s son Jaylen. The true freshman Gunther exploded for 21 points in the second half and overtime, ending the contest leading all scorers with 23. He would also connect on back-to-back threes to give his team a 46-43 advantage in the fourth.

 

Henry would come up clutch, however, for Howland, as he would drain a tray near the end of regulation to tie up the scoring at 48-48. With a chance to win the game, the Tiger heroics came up just short as the Irish defense blocked Steven Bubon’s layup at the buzzer to keep the tie, sending Howland into their third overtime game of the season. Ursuline used the momentum to fire away with a 14-5 overtime period. Overall, between the fourth quarter and overtime, the Irish outscored the Tigers 27-17.

 

Ursuline ends their regular season with an 18-3 mark as they start their tournament run in the Sectional Semifinal against Cleveland Collinwood. Howland, with the hard-fought overtime defeat, will finish the regular season 11-11 with a home Sectional Semifinal game coming up against Painesville Harvey. Both games will tip-off at 7:00 P.M. this upcoming Tuesday.

 

You can watch interviews with Ursuline head coach Keith Gunther and Howland head coach Dan Bubon below.

ARRINGTON BECOMES ALL TIME REBOUND LEADER

Southington, OH- In a commanding display of skill and determination, the Grand Valley Mustangs secured a resounding 78-49 victory over the Chalker Wildcats. Led by standout performances from Jerry Arrington and Bobby Rogers, the Mustangs showcased their offensive prowess and celebrated a historic achievement by Arrington.

QUARTER SCORES
Grand Valley Mustangs: 13 | 33 | 16 | 16 = 78
Chalker Wildcats: 16 | 8 | 14 | 11 = 49

Grand Valley Mustangs Total Points:

  • Jerry Arrington: 21
  • Bobby Rogers: 16
  • Braden Hart: 14
  • Peyton Dryer: 11
  • Logan Zirzow: 5
  • Ben Cozad: 5
  • Teagan Fenton: 3
  • Sammy Goforth: 2
  • Joey Gelfidi: 1

Chalker Wildcats Total Points:

  • Daniel Keller: 26
  • Tanner Kelson: 8
  • Zach Pack: 4
  • Nick Karr: 4
  • Andrew Kirkland: 3
  • Ryan Herdman: 2
  • Tegun Noble: 2

Jerry Arrington delivered a standout performance for the Mustangs, scoring 21 points and pulling down an impressive 18 rebounds in the game. With his dominant performance, Arrington secured his place as the all-time leader in career rebounds for the Grand Valley Mustangs with 583, adding a historic milestone to the evening’s achievements.

Joining Arrington in the scoring column, Bobby Rogers contributed 16 points, while Braden Hart added 14 points, and Peyton Dryer chipped in 11 points, highlighting the Mustangs’ balanced offensive attack.

Despite a resilient effort from the Wildcats, led by Daniel Keller with 26 points, they were unable to contain the Mustangs’ relentless offense.

With this victory, the Grand Valley Mustangs improve to a record of 8-14 and now set their sights on their upcoming matchup against the Windham Bombers in the first round of the OHSAA playoffs. Eager to avenge their previous loss to the Bombers, the Mustangs will look to carry their momentum forward and make a statement in the postseason.

As for the Chalker Wildcats, they move forward to face the Heartland Christian Lions in the first round of the OHSAA playoffs, determined to showcase their competitive spirit and resilience on the court.

The Mustangs’ victory over the Wildcats not only highlights their talent and determination but also celebrates the record-breaking achievements of Jerry Arrington, setting the stage for an exciting postseason journey.

 

 

 

DRAGONS LEAVE THE HOME COURT ON A HIGH NOTE

Photo Credit: CM Photography

Ashatbula, OH- In Lakeside’s final home game of the year, the Dragons emerged triumphant with a final score of 66-57 over the Berkshire Badgers. Led by standout performances from Aiden Hathy and Alex DiSalvatore, the Dragons showcased their offensive prowess and honored junior guard Dyln Newsome for his record-breaking achievements.

QUARTER SCORES
Lakeside Dragons: 12 | 10 | 25 | 19 = 66
Berkshire Badgers: 12 | 19 | 16 | 10 = 57

Lakeside Dragons Total Points:

  • Aiden Hathy: 23
  • Alex DiSalvatore: 20
  • Dyln Newsome: 14
  • Connor Mead: 7
  • Chase Newsome: 2

Berkshire Badgers Total Points:

  • Jack Hastings: 13
  • Gavin Hipp: 13
  • Mason Mendolera: 11
  • Cameron Beam: 7
  • Miles Miller: 6
  • Jake Patterson: 2
  • Chase Wardle: 2
  • Alex Bowman: 2
  • Luke Stute: 1

Amidst the intense competition, the Dragons took a moment during a timeout in the first quarter to recognize and honor junior guard Dyln Newsome, who had broken two Lakeside basketball records earlier in the season. Newsome now holds the impressive title of all-time leader in 3-pointers made in a season, with 54, and most 3-pointers made in one game, with 13 against the Conneaut Spartans.

Senior big man Aiden Hathy delivered a stellar performance for the Dragons, electrifying the crowd with multiple dunks and impactful blocked shots on his way to scoring 23 points in the game. Meanwhile, Alex DiSalvatore added 20 points to the scoreboard, while Dyln Newsome contributed 14 points to bolster the Dragons’ offensive attack.

Despite a resilient effort from the Badgers, led by Jack Hastings and Gavin Hipp with 13 points each, they were unable to contain the Dragons’ relentless offense.

With this victory, the Lakeside Dragons conclude their regular season with a record of 6-14 and now prepare for their upcoming matchup against the John Marshall Lawyers in the first round of the OHSAA playoffs. As they carry their momentum forward, the Dragons will look to build upon their success and make a statement in the postseason.

As for the Berkshire Badgers, they move forward to face the Valley Christian Eagles in the first round of the OHSAA playoffs, determined to showcase their competitive spirit and resilience on the court.

The Dragons’ victory over the Badgers not only highlights their talent and determination but also serves as a testament to the record-breaking achievements of Dyln Newsome, setting the stage for an exciting postseason journey

CHAMPION COMES ALIVE DOWN THE STRETCH TO ADVANCE

WARREN OH- In a thrilling sectional semifinal showdown on Wednesday night, Champion faced off against Cardinal Mooney in a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer. Despite an early deficit, Champion used a late surge to avoid an upset, pulling away to a hard-fought 48-35 win over Cardinal Mooney.

The game began with Cardinal Mooney jumping out to a quick 8-0 lead, catching Champion off guard and putting them in an early hole. However, Champion refused to back down, clawing their way back into the game and narrowing the gap to just one point by halftime. With the game hanging in the balance, Champion kept it close enough in the third quarter for their offense to come alive down the stretch.

Leading the charge for Champion was Bella Meyer, whose outstanding performance saw her pour in a game-high 25 points, providing the offensive spark her team needed to secure the win. On the other side, Sophia Diorio led Cardinal Mooney with 17 points, showcasing her scoring prowess and determination to keep her team in the game.

In the end, it was Champion’s resilience and determination that proved to be the difference maker, as they outscored Cardinal Mooney 21-6 in the fourth quarter to seal the victory and punch their ticket to the sectional final.

With this crucial win under their belts, Champion now sets their sights on the sectional final, where they will face a tough test against Columbiana on Saturday at 1:00. As they prepare for their upcoming matchup, Champion celebrates their hard-fought victory while remaining focused on the challenges that lie ahead in their pursuit of postseason success.

WARRIORS TAKING IT ONE STEP AT A TIME

BELOIT OH- In a highly anticipated tournament matchup, the West Branch High School basketball team wasted no time asserting their dominance on the court as they dispatched Coventry with a commanding 56-18 victory. From the opening tip-off, West Branch showcased their skill and determination, leaving no doubt about their intentions in postseason play.

Leading the charge for West Branch was Sophia Gregory, whose stellar performance saw her rack up an impressive 22 points, setting the tone for her team’s offensive onslaught. Audrey Eaton contributed 11 points, while Chloe Dennison added 7 points to bolster West Branch’s scoring effort and help secure the win.

Defensively, West Branch stifled Coventry’s offense, holding them to just 18 points for the entire game. The team’s tenacity and cohesion on defense proved to be a key factor in their victory, as they effectively shut down their opponents and controlled the pace of the game from start to finish.

With this convincing win, West Branch advances to the sectional final on Saturday with their sights set on further postseason success. Their next challenge will come in the form of Hubbard, whom they will host at 7:00 in what promises to be another thrilling matchup.

 

IRISH FAST OUT OF THE TOURNAMENT GATES

By Matt Maher 

 

YOUNGSTOWN, OH – Some nights are just your night and the fighting Irish came out and brought the pain against a tough Bombers team who, at times, looked very similar in play style and skill to Ursuline but those few glimpses weren’t enough for Kenston to overcome to giant that is Ursuline and the Irish found themselves with a massive 48-29 victory in round 1 of the OHSAA playoffs!

 

Ursuline came out with a fast start in the first and used that momentum to carry them toa 12-7 lead after the frame. The Bombers had two players score in this frame but the one who stood out the most was Morgan Cicero who found 3 points including a made free throw and a gritty 2 through a lot of traffic, she would be the main playmaker for her team as well and showed good ball movement throughout the game. Kennedy Carpenter led by example in this game, with 4 first quarter points she was on her way to a dominant night. Carly Casey found the first triple of the night while Lily Scott went 1-for-2 from the stripe and found 2 more points in the paint.

 

The Bombers played a much more locked down defensive 2nd quarter and ended up outscoring Ursuline 5-4 and only trailed at halftime by 4 points. Cicek added her team’s first three of the night and led her team with 6 points at halftime. Nia Burney and Brooklyn Brown combined for the 4 points for Ursuline both with 2 points within the arc. Ursuline was contributing from all parts of the court and had done a good job of defending against some quick attacks from Kenston, the Irish would also be the benefactors of several turnovers that helped them maintain possession.

 

Ursuline came out off the break energized and ready to rumble and their 13-8 3rd quarter proved that their offense was rejuvenated but their defense still needed some tweaks. Cicek would add 2 more points to her team leading total but couldn’t get past the long arms of Ursuline which was a common theme throughout the night. Carpenter found 5 huge points for her team with two 2’s and 1-of-2 made free throws while Lily Scott smashed a long 3 right through the basket. 

 

Ursuline went into the 4th quarter wanting to leave no doubt that they belong in this playoff tournament and with 8 minutes to prove that they were the better team the Irish pulled together their best offensive frame of the night with 19 points and held Kenston to just 9. Cicek would add another 2 pointer and would finish as the only Bomber in double digits with 10 points. Kennedy Carpenter was pure magic with an impressive 10 points in the quarter she would be the sole leader in points scored with 19 on the night! Meredith Gray found her first 4 points of the tournament while Carly Casey added 3 more points with a double and 1-of-2 made free throws. 

 

Ursuline showed some fantastic bouts of offense throughout the night and used Kennedy Carpenter’s fantastic night to propel them past the Bombers and move on to the next round. Kenston showed good offensive possessions but left many empty due to either overshooting the ball or the Irish defense getting in the way and to be fair Ursuline also had some trouble shooting the ball in this game too but found ways to tighten up their offense and get the job done. The Bombers finish their season in Youngstown with a 8-15 overall record while Ursuline improves to 13-10 overall and gets ready for a huge showdown up in Ashtabula on Saturday when they take on the 3rd seed Edgewood at 7:00PM.

EP SKIPS FAIRPORT OUT OF THE TOURNEY

EAST PALESTINE, OH- In a flex on their home court, the East Palestine Lady Bulldogs stormed into the OHSAA Tournament with an emphatic opening-round victory over Fairport Harding. Riding the wave of momentum they had built late in the season, the Lady Bulldogs dominated the court, sealing a resounding 45-11 win.

The standout of the game was undoubtedly Leila Martin, who delivered a career-high performance, lighting up the scoreboard with an impressive 22 points. Her stellar play not only energized her teammates but also showcased her individual talent and determination on the court.

Backing up Martin’s stellar performance, Gabby Andre contributed 11 points, showcasing her own offensive prowess and helping to extend the Lady Bulldogs’ lead. Marah Zimmerman added 5 points to the scoreboard, while Marley Blythe and Alivia Magness rounded out the scoring with 4 and 2 points respectively.

The victory wasn’t just about the final score; it was a testament to the Lady Bulldogs’ hard work, dedication, and teamwork throughout the season. Their late-season surge had ignited a fire within the team, propelling them to a dominant performance when it mattered most.

 

SALEM TAMES WILDCATS IN OPENING ROUND

SALEM, OH- In a local  OHSAA tournament showdown, the 30th-ranked Lady Quakers triumphed over the 39th-ranked Struthers with a solid 49-38 victory, securing their ticket to the second round.

Rylee Hutton emerged as the star of the game, delivering an impressive performance with a game-high 29 points, leading her team to victory. Adding to the Quakers’ success, Lauryn Barton contributed 8 points, playing a pivotal role in securing the win.  Hutton is 11 points shy of the 1000 career point mark heading into the second round.

Despite the efforts of the Struthers squad, led by Gianna Martin’s 17 points and Emma Morris’ 10, they couldn’t overcome the Lady Quakers’ determined play.

Looking ahead, the Lady Quakers now set their sights on a challenging match-up against the #14 seed Perry Pirates. The showdown is set for Saturday, February 24th, at 1pm at Perry, promising to be an exciting clash between two formidable teams as the tournament action heats up.