THE MARINA IS THE PLACE TO GO

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CANFIELD OH- In basketball, adaptation is often the key to success. For Canfield junior Marina Koenig, this season has been a testament to her ability to thrive in a larger role on the basketball court. Stepping into the spotlight with grace and determination, Marina has emerged as a vital asset for her team, making a significant impact in every game she plays.

Drawing from her experience of competing in last year’s state championship in softball, Marina brings a wealth of resilience and composure to the basketball court. Her ability to handle pressure-packed moments with poise and confidence is a testament to her versatile skill set and unwavering determination. Whether it’s sinking a clutch shot or making a crucial play on defense, Marina’s past experiences have equipped her with the mental fortitude needed to excel in any situation.

Despite her individual talents, Marina understands the importance of relying on her teammates and support system. By fostering a sense of camaraderie and trust on the court, she not only elevates her own performance but also creates opportunities for her teammates to shine. This collaborative approach not only boosts team morale but also keeps Marina grounded and confident in her abilities.

One of Marina’s greatest strengths lies in her unwavering reliability with the ball in her hands. Her teammates and coaches alike trust her implicitly to make smart decisions and execute plays flawlessly. Whether orchestrating the offense or driving through lanes with finesse, Marina’s ball-handling skills and scoring prowess make her a formidable force on the court.

Beyond her individual achievements, Marina remains committed to learning and growing as a player and a leader. By observing and absorbing the wisdom of her senior teammates, she is laying the groundwork for her own future leadership role within the team. Marina’s dedication to self-improvement and mentorship exemplifies her maturity and determination to leave a lasting impact on the program.

As Canfield gears up for the district championship showdown against St. Vincent-St. Mary on Saturday at 7:00, Marina stands ready to rise to the occasion once again. With her blend of skill, leadership, and unwavering determination, she is poised to play a pivotal role in her team’s pursuit of victory. As the spotlight shines brightly on Marina, she remains focused and determined to make every moment count, leaving an indelible mark on the court and inspiring those around her with her passion and tenacity.

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REBELS SET THE STAGE FOR A CHAMPIONSHIP

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CORTLAND OH- In a hard-fought battle on Wednesday, Crestview steadily asserted their dominance over Tuslaw, ultimately clinching a well-deserved spot in the district championship game with a final score of 56-44. The Rebels showcased their resilience and determination as they gradually pulled away from their opponents to secure the victory.

Leading the charge for Crestview were Addison Rhodes and Luvrain Gaskins, who both delivered standout performances with an impressive 20 points each. Their combined efforts propelled the team to success, as they consistently found ways to contribute on both ends of the court.

With this crucial win under their belts, Crestview now sets their sights on the district championship game, where they are slated to face off against the second-seeded Keystone. The highly anticipated matchup is scheduled to take place at Lakeview on Saturday, with tip-off set for 7:00.

BOARDMAN PULLS OFF THRILLING ROAD UPSET

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In a heart-stopping battle on the road, Boardman pulled off a stunning upset against Massillon Perry, clinching a nail-biting victory with a final score of 58-57. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams leaving everything on the court in pursuit of the win.

Leading the charge for Boardman was Terrell McDowell, whose heroic performance included sinking the game-winning shot with just 6 seconds remaining on the clock, sealing the fate of the match. McDowell’s clutch play earned him 18 points on the night, cementing his status as a key player in the team’s success.

Contributing to Boardman’s triumph was Grayson Eicher, who delivered a solid performance with 16 points, showcasing his scoring prowess when it mattered most. Additionally, Nico Holzschuh added 9 points to the scoreboard, demonstrating the team’s depth and resilience.

With this momentum-boosting win, Boardman advances to the next round of the tournament with their sights set on further glory. They are set to face off against Hoban on Saturday at 7:00, where they will look to build upon their recent success and continue their journey towards postseason triumph.

TIGERS REPEAT HOPES STAY ALIVE AT THE BUZZER

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By Noah Doughty 


MINERAL RIDGE OH- It was districts at Mineral Ridge as #2 Badger took on #5 Springfield both teams’ defenses played tough with it being tied 14-14 at the half. It felt like the whole second half was the final stretch where every basket felt like it had a huge impact. And with Badger tying it up with under 10 seconds remaining Sprinfeild had a final drive where Ava Vecchione hit a buzzer beater with time expiring to give the Tigers a 40-38 win.

 

For the Badgers Katie Grexa led with 21 points and Hannah Betts made it into double digits with 10. For Springfield Jameka Brungard led with 14 points and Maren Vinkler made a huge impact for the Tigers off the bench with 8 points 6 of them coming in the third. Ava Vecchione also had 8 points as well in the win.

 

With the Win the Tigers advance on to district finals where they will take on Warren JFK this Saturday, March 2nd at 7:00 pm.

 

EAGLES OFFENSIVELY OVERWHELM CORNERSTONE

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MINERAL RIDGE OH- In a thrilling showdown, Warren JFK refused to let their season slip away, rallying past Cornerstone Christian with a final score of 53-42.

Led by the dynamic duo of Gianna Pompelia and Didi Ryan, who combined for an impressive 46 points, JFK’s offense proved too potent for their opponents to handle. Pompelia showcased her scoring prowess with 25 points, while Ryan contributed 21 points of her own, guiding JFK to a crucial victory.

With this win, JFK secures a spot in the district championship game, set to take place on Saturday. The stage is set for an electrifying showdown against Springfield at Mineral Ridge, where both teams will battle it out for the coveted title. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00.

RESERVE ROLLS INTO THE FINALS

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By Ty Bartell

ORWELL, Ohio — The Western Reserve Blue Devils girls basketball team secured a decisive
victory over the Canton Central Catholic Crusaders, emerging triumphant with a 40-19 win in the district semi-final clash at Grand Valley High School on Wednesday night.

In a slow-paced first quarter characterized by stout defensive play from both teams, Reserve managed to seize an early lead, edging ahead 6-2 after the opening eight minutes of play. Quincy Miller emerged as a pivotal figure for the Blue Devils, showcasing sharpshooting prowess with three successful shots from beyond the arc. Miller’s contributions fueled Reserve’s offense, propelling them to a dominant 19-4 second quarter, establishing a commanding 25-6 halftime lead.

As the teams returned from halftime, the pace of play intensified, with both sides displaying more balanced efforts in the third quarter. The Devils maintained their advantage, outscoring the Crusaders 10-9 in the period to hold a 35-15 lead heading into the final quarter.

Senior standout Alyvia Hughes assumed the role of closer for Reserve, delivering a stellar performance in the second half and making crucial baskets to seal the victory with authority, ultimately securing a 40-19 triumph for the Blue Devils.

Quincy Miller and Alyvia Hughes earned recognition as Players of the Game for their impactful contributions. Miller provided an explosive opening act, notching nine points in the first half, while Hughes showcased her prowess with 11 points, notably excelling in the latter stages of the contest.

With the victory, #8 Western Reserve (16-9) advances to vie for their third district championship in four years. They are set to face off against #3 Richmond Heights (18-4) on Saturday, March 3rd, at Grand Valley High School in Orwell, Ohio, with tip-off scheduled for 7 p.m.

Fans can stay updated on Western Reserve Blue Devils basketball throughout the season, with access to live games, scores, stats, stories, and more on YSN.

 

WARRIORS HISTORIC SEASON COMES TO END IN DISTRICTS

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Peninsula, OH- In a hard-fought district semi-final matchup, the Edgewood Warriors faced off against the Aurora Greenmen in a game filled with anticipation and determination. Despite a strong effort from the Warriors, led by Katie McCollister’s double-digit scoring performance, they were unable to secure the victory, ultimately falling short with a final score of 29-39.

QUARTER SCORES
Edgewood Warriors: 6 | 10 | 6 | 7 = 29
Aurora Greenmen: 7 | 5 | 20 | 7 = 39

Edgewood Warriors Total Points:

  • Katie McCollister: 11
  • Mckenna Vencill: 9
  • Carly Kray: 4
  • Avery Vencill: 2
  • Annie Johnston: 2
  • Leigha Guyton: 1

Aurora Greenmen Total Points:

  • Sam Stask: 13
  • Madison Wiiting: 9
  • Kailey Feckner: 8
  • Brooke Pierce: 4
  • Brooke Manay: 4
  • Julia Miller: 1

Despite the loss, the Warriors displayed resilience and determination throughout the game, showcasing the competitive spirit that defined their historic season. Led by Katie McCollister’s impressive scoring performance, the Warriors fought hard against a tough Greenmen squad.

However, the Greenmen proved to be a formidable opponent, particularly in the third quarter where they outscored the Warriors by 14 points. Despite the Warriors’ efforts to rally in the fourth quarter, they were unable to overcome the deficit, ultimately falling short in their quest for victory.

With this loss, the Edgewood Warriors conclude their season with a final record of 20-2, marking a historic season for the program. Despite the disappointment of the defeat, the Warriors can take pride in their accomplishments, including winning the first conference title in school history and achieving the most wins in school history.

As for the Aurora Greenmen, they advance to the district finals of the OHSAA playoffs, where they will face the Gilmour Academy Lancers. With their hard-fought victory over the Warriors, the Greenmen look to carry their momentum forward and continue their postseason journey.

Although the outcome may not have been what the Warriors had hoped for, they showcased determination and resilience throughout the game, leaving everything on the court in their pursuit of victory. As they reflect on their season, the Warriors will look to build upon their successes and lessons learned, setting the stage for future achievements on the basketball court.

DRAGONS FOUGHT THE LAW AND THE LAW WON

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Photo Credit: CM Photography

In a spirited playoff battle, the Lakeside Dragons faced off against the John Marshall Lawyers in a game filled with intensity and determination. Despite a strong performance from junior guard Dyln Newsome, who made history with his remarkable 3-point shooting, the Dragons were unable to secure the victory, ultimately falling short with a final score of 62-74.

QUARTER SCORES
Lakeside Dragons: 14 | 6 | 21 | 21 = 62
John Marshall Lawyers: 18 | 15 | 20 | 21 = 74

Lakeside Dragons Total Points:

  • Dyln Newsome: 25
  • Aiden Hathy: 13
  • Alex DiSalvatore: 12
  • Connor Mead: 5
  • Chase Newsome: 4
  • Jarez Osborne: 3

John Marshall Lawyers Total Points:

  • Jarvion Williams: 22
  • Reece Green: 11
  • Drevontae Jeffries: 8
  • Willie Wilson: 8
  • Jaiden Taylor: 8
  • Tylan Richardson: 6
  • Markell Harris: 4
  • Lindzell Curry: 2
  • Dominic Taylor: 2
  • Tra’Sean Artist: 2
  • Jamarrion Banks: 1

Despite the loss, Dyln Newsome’s outstanding performance was a standout highlight for the Dragons. Newsome made history this season by breaking both the all-time single-game 3-point shot record with 13 and the single-season record with 54. Strong showings from Newsome, Hathy and DiSalvatore were instrumental in keeping the Dragons competitive throughout the game. Newsome caught fire in the second half knocking down 5 3-pointers and Hathy kept the crowd on their feet with a few big dunks throughout the game.

However, the Lawyers proved to be a formidable opponent, with standout performances from Jarvion Williams, who led the team with 22 points, and a balanced scoring effort from several players contributing to the victory.

With this loss, the Lakeside Dragons conclude their season with a final record of 5-16. Despite the disappointment of the defeat, the Dragons can take pride in the many bright spots throughout their season and the opportunity for their underclassmen to gain valuable experience on the court.

As for the John Marshall Lawyers, they advance to the next round of the OHSAA playoffs, where they will face the Garfield Heights Bulldogs. With their hard-fought victory over the Dragons, the Lawyers look to carry their momentum forward and continue their postseason journey.

Although the outcome may not have been what the Dragons had hoped for, they showcased determination and resilience throughout the game, leaving everything on the court in their pursuit of victory. As they reflect on their season, the Dragons will look to build upon their successes and lessons learned, setting the stage for future achievements on the basketball court.

WARRIORS STRIDING IN DISTRICTS

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By Michael Ginocchi


Beloit, OH- The West Branch Girls basketball team delivered a dominant performance, securing a 70-19 victory over Chagrin Falls in the Division 2 district semifinal held at Nordonia High School. The Warrior defense proved formidable, stifling the Tigers consistently throughout the entire game.

 

Sophie Gregory led all scorers with an impressive 20 points for West Branch. Additionally, she showcased her versatility by contributing rebounds, assists, and a couple of blocked shots, demonstrating her all-around impact on the game. Chloe Dennison scored 16 points with four three-pointers. Audrey Eaton added nine points with three triples, while Mikalyn Woods came off the bench to provide a significant spark, contributing 10 points to the team’s success.

 

Amelia Benco had most of Chagrin Falls success throughout the night. She ended up finishing with 10 points. Avery Russell scored 5 respectively. The West Branch size mismatch also proved to be a big difference in the game.

 

West Branch improves to 23-2 and will advance to the District Championship Game on Saturday. The Warriors will compete against  Shaker Hts. Laurel who is very good. Chagrin Falls ends their season at 15-10.

TIGERS ALLOW NO THOUGHTS OF UPSETS IN THE SEMIS

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ELYRIA OH- In a commanding display of dominance, Howland left no room for upsets on Wednesday night as they powered past Berkshire with a convincing 61-38 victory, securing their spot in the district championship. From the opening tip-off, Howland asserted their control on the court, demonstrating their strength and determination to advance in the postseason.

Leading the charge for Howland was Alyssa Massucci, who delivered a standout performance with a team-high 18 points, showcasing her scoring prowess and leadership on the court. Mia Barrish also made significant contributions with 13 points, while Sophia Powell added 8 points and Mya Kubanscek chipped in with 7 points to bolster Howland’s offensive attack.

The suffocating defense and efficient offense displayed by Howland proved too much for Berkshire to handle, as Howland cruised to victory and secured their place in the district championship.

With the win, Howland advances to the district championship, where they are set to face off against Copley on Saturday. The highly anticipated matchup is scheduled to tip-off at 7:00 at Elyria.