MAPLEWOOD ROCKETS PAST HERALDS IN SECTIONAL

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Photo Credit: Mickey Zheng Photography

In a challenging playoff encounter, the St. John Heralds battled against the Maplewood Rockets but ultimately fell short with a final score of 52-81. Despite a valiant effort from standout player Vin Narducci, the Heralds struggled to contain the Rockets’ offensive onslaught throughout the game.

QUARTER SCORES
St. John Heralds: 9 | 19 | 14 | 10 = 52
Maplewood Rockets: 26 | 25 | 16 | 14 = 81

St. John Heralds Total Points:

  • Vin Narducci: 26
  • Anthony Severino: 9
  • Aaron Wychock: 7
  • AJ Henslee: 4
  • Donald Crawford: 2

Maplewood Rockets Total Points:

  • Alex Donaldson: 31
  • Brandon Hoffstetter: 16
  • Andrew Barnett: 12
  • Seth Roper: 7
  • Brighton Roper: 4
  • Andrew Donaldson: 3
  • Jimmy Stander: 3
  • Tom Dahman: 3
  • Ethan Nevinski: 2

Despite facing a significant deficit, Vin Narducci led the charge for the Heralds with an impressive 26 points, showcasing his offensive prowess and determination on the court. However, the Rockets’ strong defensive efforts limited the Heralds’ scoring opportunities throughout the game.

For the Rockets, Alex Donaldson delivered a standout performance with an impressive 31 points, leading his team to victory. Brandon Hoffstetter added 16 points, while Andrew Barnett contributed 12 points, highlighting the Rockets’ balanced offensive attack.

With this loss, the St. John Heralds conclude their season with a final record of 3-19. Although their playoff journey has come to an end, the Heralds can take pride in their efforts throughout the season and look to build upon their success in the future.

As for the Maplewood Rockets, they advance to the next round of the OHSAA playoffs, where they will face the Warren JFK Eagles in the sectional final on 3/1/24. With their dominant performance against the Heralds, the Rockets will look to carry their momentum forward and make a statement in the postseason.

Although the outcome may not have been what the Heralds had hoped for, they showcased determination and resilience throughout the game. As they reflect on their season, the Heralds will look to learn and grow from their experiences, setting the stage for future success on the court.

RAY BANS REQUIRED

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH- Few players have the natural ability to lead by example, the type where few words need
to be said and when they are true weight is held in every one that they speak. Leaders are not often chosen, rather the position chooses them. That is the case for Austintown-Fitch senior Ayla Ray! Now, you may have heard “the Ace of Base” lighting up box scores on a softball field before, but Ayla has rapidly become “The Ace of Lace” when she steps foot on the basketball court!

Averaging a team-high 11.6 point per game this season to go along with another team-high in made 3-point shots with 33 this year, “Ace” has been the place to get your helpful offense all year long. Coming from great parents, both Tatum and Renauld have shown unwavering support for their oldest daughter as she has blazed the trail for her younger sisters to follow. Always a special connection with her dad, Ayla and Renauld bonded over basketball despite the frequent coaching looks, Ayla could always count on the coach at home.

Although Ayla may be going to the next level for softball, there is no doubt in the waves that she has made in basketball! With plenty of noticeable improvements from freshman year until now, Ayla has proved and continued to prove that hard work pays off! YSNs Ty Bartell got the opportunity to sit down with “Ace” to recap the season so far, her role as a leader, The Falcons second sectional final win in 30 years and much more!

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LIFE IN THE FAST LANE

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH- The makeup of most successful basketball teams generally need the following: A
shooter, someone who can make buckets when needed down the stretch. A point guard to start the offense and keep it flowing. A post player, someone with good height to secure rebounds. And finally a bruiser, someone who will step up on defense to guard the opponents toughest player, someone who shows fearlessness on a nightly basis, someone who wears bruises and cuts as badges of honor from the times they went to war with their team by their side Austintown-Fitch senior Lannie Henning exemplifies all what it means to be a bruiser and more!

Starting at a young age in rec ball with fellow senior Ayla Ray, Lannie Henning has been around the sport of basketball for quite some time! No easy paths to play at the varsity level, Lannie grinded her way through each season, no matter who the skipper of the squad was, Henning brought a good attitude and a willingness to get better while taking the best of what each coach had to offer. As the door to play at the next level has unexpectedly opened for Lannie, what could the future hold for this determined athlete? Catch this edition of Player Profile as YSNs Ty Bartell had the opportunity to sit and chat with Lannie about the basketball journey so far, some highlight memories and some future plans for The Falcons senior!

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HUTTON HITS MILESTONE IN SALEM’S UPSET VICTORY

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In an upset that sent shockwaves through the tournament, Salem pulled off a remarkable victory on the road against Perry to claim the sectional championship. The Quakers showcased their defensive prowess, stifling Perry’s offense en route to a hard-fought 34-27 win.

Adding to the excitement of the victory, Salem’s Rylee Hutton reached a significant milestone, surpassing 1000 career points in the midst of the team’s triumph. Despite entering the tournament as the 30th seed, Salem has been on a remarkable tear, riding a four-game winning streak characterized by tenacious defense and resilient performances.

Incredibly, Salem’s defensive dominance has been a key factor in their recent success, as they have held their opponents to under 45 points in each of their last four victories. Notably, two of the teams they defeated during this stretch, Fitch and Springfield, are still alive in the tournament, underscoring Salem’s ability to compete with the best.

Looking ahead, Salem sets their sights on the district semifinal showdown against Canfield. The highly anticipated matchup is scheduled for Wednesday at Uniontown Lake, with tip-off slated for approximately 7:30.

TIGERS ONE STEP CLOSER TO REPEAT

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NEWMIDDLETOWN OH- In their quest to defend their regional championship title, Springfield took a significant stride forward on Saturday with a commanding 59-43 victory over Heartland Christian, advancing to the district round of the tournament. With their sights set on postseason glory, Springfield showcased their talent and determination on the court, leaving no doubt as to their capabilities.

Leading the charge for Springfield was Jameka Brungard, who delivered a standout performance with an impressive 24 points, leading the team’s offensive charge with her scoring prowess. Ava Vecchione also made significant contributions with 19 points, while Mariana Tuscano added 10 points to bolster Springfield’s offensive firepower.

Despite a spirited effort from Heartland Christian, Springfield’s relentless attack proved too much to handle, as they secured the decisive victory to continue their postseason journey.

With the win, Springfield advances to Wednesday’s district semifinal, where they are set to face off against Badger. The highly anticipated matchup is scheduled to take place at Mineral Ridge at 6:00.

BRAVES SHINE IN TOURNAMENT DEBUT

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KINSMAN OH- In a long-awaited tournament debut, Badger unleashed a dominant performance on Saturday, overcoming Jackson Milton with a commanding 59-41 victory to advance to the district round. After a delayed start to their postseason campaign, Badger wasted no time asserting their dominance on the court, showcasing their talent and determination in front of their home crowd.

Leading the charge for Badger was Hannah Betts, who delivered a stellar performance with a game-high 19 points, leading the offensive charge with her scoring prowess. Gabriella Miller contributed 14 points, while Katie Grexa added 13 points, providing additional firepower to propel Badger to victory.

Despite a spirited effort from Jackson Milton, led by Amani Yasin with 15 points and Emma Johns with 12 points, they were unable to withstand Badger’s relentless attack.

With the win, Badger advances to the district semifinals, where they are set to face off against Springfield. The highly anticipated matchup is scheduled for Wednesday at Mineral Ridge, with tip-off slated for 6:00.

LADY RAIDERS STAND STRONG AGAINST VASJ

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CANFIELD, OH- Not many saw South Range as one of the last teams standing in the area when the season began, except those in the Raider Lockerroom.  However, the South Range Lady Raiders soared to a resounding 57-37 victory over the Villa Angela St. Joseph Vikings, clinching the sectional championship in style. With an impressive team effort, the Lady Raiders showcased their depth and talent on the court, setting the stage for an exciting journey ahead.

Led by a quartet of players with double-digit scoring performances, South Range left no doubt about their prowess on the basketball court. Devin Sauerwein led the charge with 15 points, while Gwen Lowry and Sydney Penick each contributed 11 points, demonstrating their offensive versatility and ability to deliver when it matters most. Madison Dado added 10 points to the scoreboard, further solidifying the team’s dominant performance.

The Lady Raiders’ balanced attack and unrelenting intensity on both ends of the court propelled them to victory, leaving the Vikings struggling to keep pace throughout the game. Taylor Dado chipped in with 8 points, while Ceci Foster added 2, highlighting the team’s collective effort and cohesive play.

With the sectional championship secured, South Range now sets its sights on the next challenge as they prepare to face off against the 11th-seeded Smithville in the upcoming showdown in Wooster. Despite the formidable competition that lies ahead, the Lady Raiders are brimming with confidence and determination, fueled by their recent success and unwavering belief in their abilities.

SOUTHERN GETS THEIR TICKET TO THE NEXT ROUND

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SALINEVILLE OH- In a gritty and determined effort, Southern secured their ticket to the district round with a hard-fought 44-35 victory over Dalton on Saturday. From the opening tip-off, Southern showcased their resilience and resolve, refusing to be denied as they battled their way to a crucial postseason win.

Leading the charge for Southern was Ashley Shroades, who delivered a standout performance with a game-high 29 points, demonstrating her scoring prowess and leadership on the court. Josie Stanley also made key contributions with 6 points, providing valuable support to help propel Southern to victory.

With the win, Southern advances to the district semifinals, where they are set to face off against Mogadore. The highly anticipated matchup is scheduled for Wednesday at Norwayne High School, with tip-off slated for approximately 7:30.

CLIPPERS MAKE THEMSELVES CHAMPIONS IN THE SECTIONALS

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By Joe Eusebio 

COLUMBIANA OH- The Columbiana Lady Clippers added a Sectional Title to their EOAC Tri Championship Saturday afternoon when they defeated Champion 39-34.  It was a tight game the entire way with Champion jumping out to a 6-0 lead in the early going on three point shots from Kayla Haynie and Kennedy Caldwell.  The Clippers responded by going on an 8-0 run with four points a piece from juniors Ellie Venezia and Averi Marshall to close the first quarter with an 8-6 lead.  Megan Moser’s three pointer late in the 2nd quarter helped Columbiana to take a 17-11 lead into the locker room at the half.

Champion senior Bella Meyer’s five points and junior Addie Warzala hitting on 4 of 4 from the charity stripe got the Flashes back into it in the third.  Columbiana had five players contributing points in the third, led by Evy Rapp’s 4 points and Ava Heinrich going 3-5 on free throws and the Clips took a 30-25 lead into the fourth quarter.  It was more of the same in the fourth quarter as the Flashes were unable to cut into the Clippers lead despite three pointers from Haynie and Meyer.  Columbiana’s Marshall went 4-6 from the line down the stretch with a big free throw from senior Alaina Johnston ultimately putting the game out of reach.

On the day, the Flashes were led by Kayla Haynie’s 11 points.  Junior Bella Meyer contributed 9 points, 5 Rebounds and 2 Blocks.   Columbiana’s Avery Marshall had 14 points and 5 rebounds while Ellie Venezia filled up the score sheet with 9 points, 12 rebounds, 2 assists and one block.  Champion closed their season with a record of 18-6 while the Clippers head to Struthers on Wednesday night for a District Semifinal game against Wooster Triway.

HOWLAND OWNS THE FOURTH QUARTER

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HOWLAND OH- In a thrilling matchup that came down to the wire, Howland showcased their resilience and determination on Saturday, unleashing a monumental fourth-quarter surge to secure a spot in the district semifinals with a hard-fought 45-32 victory over Tallmadge. Trailing entering the final frame, the Tigers erupted for an impressive 21-8 scoring burst, propelling them past their opponents and into the next round of the postseason.

Leading the charge for Howland was Alyssa Massucci, who delivered a stellar performance with a game-high 19 points, displaying her scoring prowess when it mattered most. Jessie DeSalvo also made significant contributions with 10 points, while Maya Kubanscek added 7 points to round out the Tigers’ offensive attack.

The tenacity and resilience exhibited by Howland throughout the game ultimately paid off as they punched their ticket to the district semifinals.

Looking ahead, Howland sets their sights on their next challenge as they prepare to face Berkshire in the district semifinals. The highly anticipated matchup is scheduled to take place on Wednesday at Elyria, with tip-off set for 6:00. As they continue their postseason journey.